WINTER 2016 800 WEST COLLEGE AVENUE ST. PETER, MINNESOTA 56082
WE WILL
“The Gustavus Acts Strategic Plan grew from within, and it will live through our gifts, values, passions, and communities.” —President Rebecca Bergman SEE PAGE 12
You can get halal chicken in the Caf every Tuesday, in a variety of dishes, all unofficially known as “Khan’s Chicken,” after Muhammed Ahmen Khan ’18, an international business/ political science major and peace studies minor who taught recipes to Caf staff last year. “Halal” refers to meat butchered according to Muslim edict, which includes saying a prayer. Says Khan, “The meat is a life, and serving halal chicken is a way to teach people to be respectful about food.” Much respect goes out to his mom in Pakistan, too: “All the dishes I learned from her.”
2
75 YEARS OF ST. LUCIA It begins in darkness. It continues with hope.
18
THE NEXT FOUR YEARS With five fresh first-year students.
29
CLASS NOTES What your fellow Gusties are up to.
For Alumni, Parents, and Friends WINTER 2016 | VOL. LXXIII | ISSUE 1 STA F F Chair, Board of Trustees The Rev. Dan S. Poffenberger ’82
YOUR GIFT to the Gustavus Fund Supports the ENTIRE STUDENT Experience.
President of the College Rebecca Bergman Vice President, Marketing and Communication Tim Kennedy ’82 Vice President, Advancement Thomas Young ’88 Director, Alumni and Parent Engagement Glen Lloyd Managing Editor Stephanie Wilbur Ash | sash@gustavus.edu Visual Editor, Production Coordinator Anna Deike | adeike@gustavus.edu
43% Scholarships and Financial Aid
Design Sharon Stevenson | stevenson.creative@me.com Contributing Writers JJ Akin ’11, Tim Kennedy ’82, CJ Siewert ’11, Laura Isdahl ’17 Contributing Photographers and Artists Terry Clark Photography, Harvard University, Honor the Earth, Gisel Murillo ’17, Steve Neidorf, Randall Nelson, John Noltner, Becca Sabot, Wayne Schmidt, CJ Siewert ’11, SPX Sports, Vanderbilt University, Gustavus Adolphus College Archives
34% Research opportunities, state-of-the-art technology, renowned faculty, and more.
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13% Student Services: Academic Advising, Career Center, Chaplains’ Office, Student Organizations, and more.
Articles and opinions presented in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors or official policies of the College or its Board of Trustees. The Gustavus Quarterly (USPS 227-580) is published four times annually, in February, May, August, and November, by Gustavus Adolphus College, Saint Peter, Minn. Periodicals postage is paid at Saint Peter, MN 56082, and additional mailing offices. It is mailed free of charge to alumni and friends of the College. Circulation is approximately 42,800.
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Stephanie Coe ’20 during her daily practice as a competitive figure skater. The College’s on-campus rink is one of the reasons she chose Gustavus. She’s one of five great firstyears profiled in this issue.
10% Institutional Support: Hillstrom Museum of Art, the Nobel Conference®, campus operations, and more.
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MAKE A DIFFERENCE TODAY. gustavus.edu/give Office of Advancement
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IN THIS ISSUE
2 7
75 YEARS OF ST. LUCIA
It begins every year during our darkest time, and it ends every year with renewed hope.
12
#WHY GUSTAVUS
We don’t like to brag—this is Minnesota, after all—but some great organizations have said some great things about the College recently. Spread the word.
18
WE WILL ACT: GUSTAVUS ACTS STRATEGIC PLAN
The people, promises, and processes that will activate the Gustavus Acts Strategic Plan during the next 10
IN EVERY ISSUE
years. Here we go.
4 VÄLKOMMEN 5 ON THE HILL
THE NEXT FOUR YEARS
8 SHINE PROFILES
Five first-years on their first few weeks, plus their
11 KALENDER
own personal hopes for the future. This is Gustavus
22
HERITAGE/SPORTS
right now.
24
GRATITUDE
26
GUSTIES
40
VESPERS
22
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
12
1
St. Lucia
75 YEARS OF
Do you know your St. Lucia history? It begins during the darkest time of the year…
1953
1948
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
1954
2
1961
1960
1981
1971
1988
According to legend, a maiden appeared in Sweden during a great famine and the winter solstice. Widely believed to be 20-year-old Italian martyr Lucia (killed because she would not renounce her devotion to God), she distributed food and clothing to the needy, becoming a symbol of light to Swedes. Here’s how Gustavus has kept her spirit alive so she continues to be a light for all of us. �
The Swedish custom of naming a yearly St. Lucia dates to
the late 1800s. At Gustavus, it dates to 1941. It was instituted by Miss Alma Hansen, then dean of women.
�
The Guild of
St. Lucia, an honor society for Gustavus senior women, leads the selection process of the Court of St. Lucia. To announce their selections, Guild members search the campus for Court 2000
members and surprise them with a rose.
�
In early years,
only blonde Swedish women were allowed on the Court, and only women were allowed to vote for St. Lucia. The Festival began with a cereal breakfast for women—if you found the almond in your bowl, you’d be the next to marry.
�
Such
rules have long been abandoned. Men now vote for their fellow female students. The first African-American member of the Court was Titilope Cole-Adeniyi, in 2000. In 2014, Janet Jennings was elected as the first African-American St. Lucia. �
The secret of who will be St. Lucia is painstakingly
kept. Only three people know before the rehearsal: the Guild member who tallies the votes, the Chaplain’s secretary who 2004
makes the service’s bulletin, and the Chaplain who presides over the Festival service.
�
The day of the Festival, the
Court carols through the dorms beginning at 5 a.m. Residents set out treats—or protest the noise. (Note: singing ability is not a St. Lucia requirement.)
�
At the Festival service, the
previous year’s St. Lucia retells the tradition. Children from the Gustavus community accompany the Court as star children and a tompten (a Swedish Christmas elf). The Court proceeds through Christ Chapel, with the new St. Lucia leading the way. �
The Court used to visit the Twin Cities to serve tea to
alumna. Today, the Festival continues with a Swedish luncheon where Lucia members can try lutefisk.
�
The characteristics
of Lucia still matter to Gustavus and in the world: courageous leadership, service to others, strength of character, and compassion. Recognize these St. Lucias and Court members? Learn more about Lucia Courts of the past at 2014
gustavus.edu/events/stlucia.
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
on campus sponsored by the Gustavus Library Associates,
3
Välkommen THIS IS THE START OF SOMETHING BIG.
At the same time, our College remains the one you know and love and support. How is that possible? As we developed a new vision statement for the College as part of the creation of the Gustavus Acts Strategic Plan, we discovered something wonderful: Our mission, in spirit, has remained the same for more than 120 years. In 1895, the mission read in part: The object of the institution is to provide for men and women the opportunities of acquiring a thorough liberal education, based upon and permeated by the principles of Christianity as confessed by the Lutheran Church. Today, our mission—which will not change with the Gustavus Acts Strategic Plan—begins: Gustavus Adolphus College is a church-related, residential liberal arts college firmly rooted in its Swedish and Lutheran heritage. The College offers students of high aspiration and promise a liberal arts education of recognized excellence provided by faculty who embody the highest standards of teaching and scholarship. Our mission statement describes who we are and articulates the essential purpose of the institution. Certainly we are a different college than we were in 1895, having responded many times over to the needs of our students and changes in our culture, our global economics, and our worldy understanding. And yet, we remain strikingly similar in our intentions for our students. A vision statement creates a picture of a desired future state and inspires people to live into that future. I am so very proud of our new vision and our new strategic plan. Where we’re headed during the next 10 years is a bold, exciting, transformative place for faculty, staff, students, and the world. (See page 12.) While firmly anchored in our mission, we recognize that we will be a different and better college in the future. We are blessed that our future is built on solid ground. In developing the Gustavus Acts Strategic Plan, our College has not forgotten who we are. We look ahead with eagerness, and we remain who we have always been...
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
Golden. Gusties.
4
Sincerely,
G U S TAV U S A D O L P H U S C O L L E G E B OA R D O F T R U S T E E S The Rev. Jon V. Anderson (ex officio), Bishop, Southwestern Minnesota Synod, ELCA Scott P. Anderson ’89, MBA, Chairman, President, and CEO, Patterson Companies, Inc. Catherine Asta ’75, JD (ex officio), Attorney at Law, and Past President, Gustavus Alumni Association Tracy L. Bahl ’84, MBA, Executive Vice President, CVS | Caremark Grayce Belvedere-Young, MBA, Founder and CEO, Lily Pad Consulting Rebecca M. Bergman (ex officio), President, Gustavus Adolphus College Suzanne F. Boda ’82, Senior Vice President, Hubs and Gateway Operations, American Airlines Daniel G. Currell ’94, JD, Managing Director, Advance Law Edward J. Drenttel ’81, JD, Attorney/Partner, Winthrop & Weinstine Bruce A. Edwards ’77, Retired CEO, DHL Global Supply Chain James H. Gale ’83, JD, Attorney at Law John O. Hallberg ’79, MBA, CEO, Children’s Cancer Research Fund Susie B. Heim ’83, Former Co-owner, S and S Heim Construction George G. Hicks ’75, JD, Founding Partner, Värde Partners, Inc. The Rev. John D. Hogenson ’81, Senior Pastor, Mount Olivet Lutheran Church Linda G. Huett ’66, Retired President and CEO, Weight Watchers International, Inc. The Rev. Peter C. Johnson ’92, Executive Pastor, St. Andrew Lutheran Church Linda Bailey Keefe ’69, MBA, Vice President, NAI Brannen Goddard Talmadge E. King, Jr. ’70, MD, Dean, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco Paul R. Koch ’87, Senior Vice President/Investments, UBS Financial Services Jan Lindman, Treasurer to the King, Royal Court of Sweden Jan Ledin Michaletz ’74, Past President, Gustavus Alumni Association Thomas J. Mielke ’80, JD, Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Kimberly-Clark Corporation Marcia L. Page ’82, Founding Partner, Värde Partners, Inc. The Rev. Craig A. Pederson ’90 (ex officio), Assistant to the Bishop, Minneapolis Area Synod, ELCA, and President, Gustavus Adolphus College Association of Congregations The Rev. Wayne B. Peterson ’77, Pastor, St. Barnabas Lutheran Church The Rev. Dan S. Poffenberger ’82 (chair), Senior Pastor, Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church Beth Sparboe Schnell ’82, CEO, Sparboe Companies
Rebecca M. Bergman President, Gustavus Adolphus College
Ronald C. White ’75, President, Sales, RC White Enterprises, Inc.
Just seven of the largestever group of Gustavus international students. Front, l to r: Alice Nguyen ’20 (Vietnam, more on Alice, page 18), Bryan Khoo Wyng Wai ’19 (Malaysia), Ehsan Ali Asghar ’19 (Pakistan), Hubert Ngabirano ’18 (Burundi), Maripaz Alvarez ’19 (Mexico); Back, l to r: Christina Jolérus ’17 (Sweden), Bethel Seyoum ’19 (Ethiopia)
ON THE HILL
I N T E R N AT I O N A L N I C E
With 111 students from 27 different
Admission Cynthia Yang ’10 (see page
Bethel Seyoum, a native of Ethiopia.
countries taking classes this fall, Gustavus
17) and International Student Services
“As international students we have good
has its largest-ever international student
Coordinator Jeff Anderson. Yang spends
resources here. I never feel alone.”
population. They’ve come from homes
several months each year traveling the
all over the globe—Burundi, Pakistan,
world in search of the talented students
intercultural learning will continue under
Mexico, Vietnam, and, of course, Sweden.
who can tackle the College’s challenging
the Gustavus Acts Strategic Plan (see
academics. On campus, Anderson
page 15): diversifying and expanding the
in international student enrollment, and
works to ensure a warm and welcoming
Gustavus community is a key goal. “It’s a
that’s wonderful news for our campus
environment for the students.
good challenge that makes us take serious
The CICE builds community by
stock of our current student experience to
intercultural and diverse community,”
pairing students with International
help ensure that our campus is welcoming
Center for International and Cultural
Friendship Families in Saint Peter who
to people of all backgrounds,” Adkins says.
Education director Roger Adkins says.
host international student dinners,
“There are great opportunities at
as we seek to become an ever-more
by encouraging participation in the
Gustavus,” Seyoum says. And, echoing a
perspectives over the past decade is the
International Cultures Club, and by
popular sentiment about both Gustavus
result of a global recruiting initiative
providing personal advising to students.
and the fine state of Minnesota, “The
This increase in international
spearheaded by Assistant Dean of
“I had a good start,” says sophomore
people are nice.”
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
“We are in a pattern of rapid growth
The emphasis on international and
5
ON THE HILL
Action! The Anatomy of LeRoy Neiman’s Champions LeRoy Neiman (1921–2012) is known for his popular and colorful, semi-abstract paintings of sports figures (like the one pictured here and on page 40), but he also was a master draftsman with a remarkable ability to capture figures in motion. Neiman was originally from Minnesota, where one of his first teacher was Clement Haupers (1900–1982), an artist well known in the state and friend of Richard L. Hillstrom. This exhibit was organized by the LeRoy Neiman Foundation in New York with the Louisiana State University Museum of Art LeRoy Neiman (1921–2012), Candlestick Park Batting Cage (Study for Bay Area Greats), 1989, ink, pastel, markers on paper, 18 x 26 inches
in Baton Rouge. It will be on view at the Hillstrom Museum of Art until January 27.
PRETTY GOOD NEWS The Great Gustie Gathering 2016, otherwise known as Homecoming,
Project, and it will focus initially on first-year students and the advisers and supervisors who work with them.
brought a record crowd to campus to celebrate Gustavus as well as 100
The Northstar Science Film Festival was launched by alums
seasons of football. It was one of the
Ryan Johnson ’96 and Kevin Dragseth ’96. The festival
largest homecoming celebrations on
featured films of all kinds paired with
record—more than 1,300 came back to
thoughtful discussion featuring
The Hill, including Gusties now living in
filmmakers and scientists.
28 states and from as far back as the Class
Professors Scott Bur (chemistry),
of ’51. Reunion years of ’76, ’81, ’86, ’91, ’96, ’01,
Chuck Niederriter (physics), and
’06, and ’11 turned out in particularly large numbers.
Michael Ferragamo (biology and psychology) all had roles.
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
This year’s theme, Nobel 52: The Search for Economic
6
Balance, was attended by thousands on campus, but of
Director of International and Cultural
particular interest this year were the large audiences who
Education Roger Adkins, has been named an Association of
tuned in live online via livestream and Facebook—from 36 states and 14 countries on three continents.
International Education Administrators Presidential Fellow. Fellows are selected based on perceived
The College has been awarded a $25,000 grant from the
benefit to the individual and
Council of Independent Colleges for vocational exploration
their institution, their promise
for students and professional development for staff. The
and potential as international
initiative is called The Purposeful Living and Learning
education leaders, and the quality of their application statement and materials.
#WhyGustavus
During the past four years, Gustavus has humbly accepted accolades from a variety of organizations that measure such things. And though we are not known for bragging, it’s getting hard (and awkward) not to. They keep coming. Let’s not be shy. Let’s spread the word.
2nd highest 1st 3rdranked Top 10 graduation rate among
Minnesota private colleges for students of color.
in Minnesota for
doing the most for
low-income students, according to the New York Times.
private college in Minnesota (behind Carleton and
percent in nation for four-year
first-ever Wall Street Journal/
graduation rate, according to
Times Higher Education
collegeresults.com.
College Rankings. rank for Best College Food in America (and 1st in Minnesota) according to Niche.
Top
Top 30 50 in 5 categories
in nation for
outstanding academics
40 th
in nation for best
value among colleges
nationally in Money magazine (Most Affordable
combined with
Private, Best for Merit Aid, Colleges that Add the
affordable costs,
average academically,
Most Value, Best Colleges You Can Actually Get Into,
according to
according to U.S. News
Best Liberal Arts Colleges).
Kiplinger’s Personal
and World Report.
Finance.
that are above-
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
20 th
Macalester) according to
7
ON THE HILL
SHINE: HERCHRAN SINGH Big Bold Steps SHE’S TAKEN SOME SURPRISING CHANCES DURING HER FOUR YEARS. GUSTAVUS WILL BENEFIT FOR YEARS TO COME.
When she walked onto campus four years ago, “I was going to sit in my room and do my homework and go to class,” Singh says. Medical school was the plan: She’s a biology major, and classics minor, and she had done a high school internship at the Mayo Clinic. In her time at Gustavus, Singh’s relationship with her cellural and molecular biology professor Karla Marz led to her role as student host for visting Nobel Conference neuroscientists Antonio Demasio and Eric Kandel. And something else: During her first year, no one filled the international representative position for Student Senate; it was in danger of being eliminated altogether. Singh stepped up for that too, saving the position from extinction. Though she was raised in Rochester, Singh’s family is Canadian, so she understands the importance of representation. “I felt that voice needed to be heard. I can’t vote, my family can’t vote, but we still pay taxes and are influenced by all the decisions made in this country,” she says. The more she worked on issues of importance to her, and to many other Gustavus students, the more her passion for Student Senate grew. This year she is co-president. Last spring, Singh stepped up yet again. She was one of two students chosen to work on the Gustavus Acts strategic planning committee. Along with faculty and staff, she helped develop major outcomes for the next 10 years. “We had to think big,” she says. She was up for the challenge. “One of my strengths is that I’m an achiever-learner.” Singh helped facilitate focus groups with the student body, analyze the purpose of liberal arts, and imagine the future curriculum. Med school is still the plan. But just medicine? “A lot of people have said administration would be a good field for me,” Singh says. She’s learned the two are not mutually exclusive. Plus, she says, “I tend to take chances.”
8
and so is learning,” Singh says. SERVICE
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
“Service is a huge part of my life “The basis of Sikhism, my faith, is ‘Seva’ which is service, and ‘Sikhi’ which is to learn.” See page 12 for more about the strategic plan she helped shape, influencing how future Gusties will serve and learn.
SHINE: BRIAN KONKOL Connected? Well... WHAT’S GOD UP TO? CONSTANTLY REMINDING US OF WHO WE ARE, HE SAYS.
Chaplain Konkol is emphatic about this: Being connected is not enough. “If someone walks over and punches me in the face, we’re connected. But obviously I don’t appreciate that connection,” he says. “We’re all connected, on campus and throughout the world. Yet the connections are by no means neutral. Some people are systemically assaulted through the structures that shape our connections.” A more holy undertaking, he says, can be found in the African concept of ubuntu. It is the central theme of this year’s Christmas in Christ Chapel celebration, for which he is creative director. “Ubuntu affirms that a person is a person through other people, or ‘I am because we are,’” he says. “Ubuntu reveals that our calling is not to build connections but to be connected in ways that honor the dignity of all life.” Ubuntu is also central in Konkol’s life. While in college at Viterbo University (where he played basketball), he learned about Catholic social teaching and read about Helen Prejean, Dorothy Day, Oscar Romero, and Gustavo Gutiérrez. “My world was rocked,” he says. “I learned to view faith communities as catalysts for justice.” Then it was seminary, ordination, ministry alongside Lutheran churches in South America and South Africa, a PhD, featured columns in the Huffington Post and elsewhere, and, this spring, his book with Fortress Press: Mission as Accompaniment: A Response to Mechanistic Dehumanization. It’s “wonky theological stuff,” he says with characteristic pragmatic charm, but the gist is that we should try to live by embodying our values rather than reacting to our fears. in Christ Chapel theme,
dhist prayer flags, a Wisconsin brewery growler. “Students ask
creatively directed by Konkol,
lots of questions about it all. It’s really fun,” he says. Lately
is Ubuntu, Jesu: From the
he’s been particularly reflective about his movie poster of
Cradle of Humankind to the
Dead Man Walking, and the picture of him and his wife,
Ends of the Earth.
Kristen, with Desmond Tutu. “It all inspires me, keeps me energized, and holds me accountable,” he says, “so that my life is not only connected but connected well.”
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
This year’s Christmas
eclectic images from chapters of his life—a statue of Jesus, Bud-
FA I T H
In his office in Old Main, Konkol surrounds himself with
9
ON THE HILL
CAMPUS SOCIAL INSTAGRAM
Follow /gustavusadolphuscollege
At the time of his retirement in 1997, Moose Malmquist Regram from @stephany_joy
left these parting words: “I have been richly blessed. In
’03: “What do we miss about
my mind’s eye I see the faces of my former players. I recall
Gustavus? Frost your own
both their troubles and their triumphs. I revel in their
cookies!” #gustiehomecoming
accomplishments and their successes. I remember the
#goldandblacktakemeback
big wins and a lot of tough losses. I remember best the friendships, the laughter, the fulfillment, and the love.” (In Memoriam, page 39.)
Noah Grothe ’17 strums through Psalm 145 in a campus structure
Follow @gustavus, @gustiealum
that celebrates Sukkot: the remembrance of the Exodus
Professor @ChrisGilbert
when the people of Israel lived
When your First-Term Seminar class reading includes
in the wilderness. Sponsored by
people eating a chocolate cake, you make chocolate cake
the Gustavus Interfaith Lodge.
for your 9 a.m. class. #whygustavus
#gogusties #whygustavus @ConnorMyhre “Black Americans can talk
When the opening speaker of #Nobel52 gives his lecture
about racism until we are
dressed as a Jedi and enters holding a lightsaber.
blue in the face…but alone we can’t solve these problems.”
@AllisonFaxvog
Slate magazine’s @jbouie on
Got stung by a wasp today so the president brought me
#tanehisicoates book Between
into her house and got me some ice. #whygustavus
the World and Me for Gustavus Reading in Common. Follow @gustavusadolphuscollege, @gustieathletics
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
10:00 a.m. Time for Reflection
10
“As Martin Luther said, ‘God is that to which your heart clings and entrusts itself.’ What we followers of Abraham know is that God is not always found on the mountaintops, but always in real-life needs.” — Constructive theologian Joerg Rieger, PhD, Cal Turner Chancellor’s Chair of Wesleyan Studies and distinguished professor of theology, Divinity School and Graduate Department of Religion, Vanderbilt University. He was a visiting lecturer to Nobel 52: The Search for Economic Balance. His lecture was titled, “What Does Jesus Have to Do with Wall Street?”
Kalender
• Times and dates of events listed on this page are subject to change. Call to confirm. • Up-to-date sports schedules may be found at gustavus.edu/athletics. For a printed schedule of the Gustie varsity athletic squads, see the website or send a selfaddressed, stamped envelope to CJ Siewert ’11, director of sports information,
DECEMBER
Gustavus Adolphus College, 800 W.
2, 3, & 4 Christmas in Christ Chapel
College Ave., Saint Peter, MN 56082-1498.
2016 Ubuntu, Jesu: From the Cradle
• You can listen to select Gustavus athletics broadcasts through the GameCentral live-
of Humankind to the Ends of the
stream portal at gustavus.edu/athletics.
Earth in Christ Chapel; $30 for
• To receive a more complete fine arts
service, $25 for Christmas buffet;
schedule or more information on fine arts
gustavustickets.com
events noted in the calendar, contact Al
8 Festival of St. Lucia Christ Chapel,
Behrends ’77, director of fine arts programs:
10 a.m.; Gustavus Library Association’s
507-933-7013 or al@gustavus.edu. • Tickets for the Gustavus Artist Series
Lucia Luncheon, Alumni Hall, 11 a.m.;
and Department of Theatre & Dance
festival chapel service open to the
productions may be ordered online
public, for Luncheon reservations,
at gustavustickets.com. Tickets for
call 507-933-7520.
Department of Theatre & Dance offerings
8–11 Theatre Gallery: A Mini-Fringe Festival Black Box Theatre; Shared
Jonathan L. Walton
are available two weeks in advance of the performances.
Space: A Student-Choreographed Studio Dance Concert; Kresge Dance
JANUARY
Studio; shows at multiple times;
16 Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
gustavustickets.com
Lecture: Jonathan L. Walton Plummer Professor of Christian Morals at Harvard University and Pusey Minister in Harvard’s Memorial Church; Christ Chapel; 10 a.m.; free
FEBRUARY 11 Gustavus Wind Orchestra Home Concert, concluding its tour of the
Winona LaDuke
northeastern United States; Björling
9 Gustavus Artist Series: Michael Johnson Live Björling Hall; 8 p.m.; $15 adult, $11 seniors and students; gustavustickets.com 10 Brassworks! Björling Hall; 1:30 p.m.; free 11 Gustavus Philharmonic Orchestra Björling Recital Hall; 1:30 p.m.; free
Recital Hall; 1:30 p.m.; reception
MARCH
following
4 Building Bridges: Uprooting
11 Gustavus Choir Home Concert
Injustice—Fostering the Growth of
concluding its tour of Florida;
Grassroots Movements, with Winona
Christ Chapel; 7:30 p.m.
LaDuke, keynote, in Jackson Campus
17–19 Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street sit-specific
Center, 6 p.m.; gustavustickets.com 17–19 Between Heaven and Earth:
venue, see gustavus.edu for more; 8
The Gustavus Dance Company in
p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. on
Concert Anderson Theater; 8 p.m.
Sunday; gustavustickets.com
on Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. on Sunday; gustavustickets.com
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
Michael Johnson
11
THE NEXT 10 YEARS The Gustavus Acts Strategic Plan is a lot like Gusties—bold, missiondriven, and living in action. Here is its vision, as well as the people, processes, and promises that will inspire our next decade of work.
WHAT DOES A VISION STATEMENT DO? It paints a bold and compelling picture of the future. It pulls a community forward, inspires us to stretch. And it belongs to all of us. So many Gusties shared in this vision statement’s creation—more than 250 individuals helped shape these 26 words (and the Gustavus Acts Strategic Plan), including alumni nationally, internationally, and in Minnesota. This plan grew from within, and it will live through our gifts, values, passions, and communities. It will live through our actions. Our mission and values remain the same (see page 4), and we remain stewards of them. From this hallowed ground springs our new vision. We will look to it to guide us on our journey ahead. Here we go. —President Rebecca Bergman
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
GUSTAVUS EQUIPS 1 STUDENTS TO LEAD PURPOSEFUL LIVES 2 AND TO ACT ON THE GREAT CHALLENGES 3 OF OUR TIME THROUGH AN INNOVATIVE LIBERAL ARTS 4 EDUCATION OF RECOGNIZED EXCELLENCE 5.
12
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Every action at
Our students discern
Our students are
Students learn boldly,
We set the bar high
Gustavus moves
their vocation,
doers. They are
stretching their minds
in everything we do.
students toward
think deeply and
aware of and engage
in the classroom and
And the world will
discovery of self—
critically, and ignite
with real-world
beyond. Through
notice.
their beliefs, values,
their passions
concerns. They
active collaboration
and relation to the
through knowledge
seek to understand
with faculty, alumni,
world. We build
and discovery. Our
complex societal
and business leaders,
capacity through
students then live
issues, and they act
their liberal arts
experience. Students
on purpose and with
on them with hope
education comes
graduate equipped
purpose. They care.
for positive change.
alive.
for life and career.
THE BEST VERSION OF THE
team meetings, feedback forums, and strategic visioning sessions. It was inspiring to hear so many ideas, hopes, and dreams from people who care deeply about Gustavus. And it was energizing to put all of these pieces together.
COLLEGE
Gustavus Quarterly: What were your thoughts around leading the Strategic Action Team? Alisa Rosenthal: Excitement… and some trepidation. The planning process was an opportunity for the community to collaborate on a vision and plan for the College’s future. Gustavus is a special place, and our goal was to envision a future where we live into the best version of the College. You don’t want to screw that up.
built on the past three...
JULY 2014 Rebecca Bergman becomes president
AUG. 2015 Our mission, core
Siri Erickson: I was grateful for the opportunity to help President Bergman and the College set an agenda for the next 10 years. And I was also excited for the opportunity to work with Alisa. A: Working with Siri wound up being one of the best parts of the process. We have complementary strengths and senses of humor—and we needed both! GQ: What about the process affirmed or reaffirmed your faith in Gustavus? A: The Gustavus Acts gathering in September of last year really blew me away with the number of people who came and the palpable energy. It felt like the community really took ownership of the process that afternoon. S: As we went forward, Alisa and I sat in a lot of
GQ: What, in your opinion, are the plan’s most distinctive features?
values, and purpose
A: Flexibility, room for experimentation, direction without proscription. There’s a recognition that we’re going to try different things, assess them, and incorporate the findings into next steps. It’s a living document that provides direction and focus without locking the College.
The campus
S: Its distinctiveness comes not from any one feature but from aligning an integrated liberal arts learning experience with the plan’s vision. This plan will drive change, and that will impact future students for the sake of the greater good of society and of the planet.
reviewed and renewed
SEPT. 2015 community gathers and rallies
OCT. 2015 Input from the greater community received, reviewed, incorporated
APRIL 2016 Gustavus Acts plan drafted and redrafted
JUNE 2016 Gustavus Board of Trustees finalizes Gustavus Acts
JAN. 2016 Strategy teams assemble and share plans with Gustavus Board of Trustees
APRIL 2017
—Alisa Rosenthal (bottom left) is
Faculty vote on new
associate professor of political science
General Education
and director of the Kendall Center
Curriculum
for Engaged Learning. Siri Erickson (top) is a chaplain of the College.
...with more to come.
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
Co-chairs of the Strategic Action Team on the process and promise of developing Gustavus Acts.
The next 10 years will be
13
THE NEXT 10 YEARS
THREE BIG GOALS
Succint and clear. Absolutely actionable. Here are our goals, and why they’re our goals, and how we’ve begun to achieve them.
1. D IVERSIFY AND EXPAND THE GUSTAVUS COMMUNITY. By 2044, no one racial or ethnic group will dominate the U.S. in terms of size.* Cultural, regional, and global diversity exist. The College recognizes that the “who” of the Gustavus community must reflect the diversity of the world from which our students come and to which they will return.
OUR START
2015
2001
2006
5
9
13
13
16
NUMBER OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN THE PAST 15 YEARS:
2001
2006
2011
2015
2016
39
26
47
%
%
2011
2016
PERCENTAGE OF NON-WHITE FULL-TIME STUDENTS IN THE PAST 15 YEARS
%
%
%
96 111
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
Academic offerings must prepare students for life and work in an ever more complex and interdependent world.
14
“
Here’s how to help.
TO PURSUE ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE WITH COURAGE IS A TASK THAT INSPIRES ALL OF US.
”
—THE REV. DAN POFFENBERGER ’82, CHAIR, BOARD OF TRUSTEES
With your time, talents, and resources. Financial gifts ensure student access to a Gustuvas liberal arts education of excellence. Mentoring and direct service give Gustie students opportunities to see life after the Hill, and to develop personal and professional relationships that will help them when they get there. Such gifts are welcome and needed by the College and its Gusties, and future Gusties too. Visit gustavus.edu/alumni for more.
2. D ELIVER A DISTINCTIVE AND INTEGRATED LIBERAL ARTS EDUCATION. Employers have long sought hires with Gustavus core values: Excellence, Community, Justice, Service, and Faith. The rest changes over time.
25 YEARS AGO EMPLOYERS WANTED THE NEXT TEN YEARS EMPLOYERS WANT* Effective listening, written, and verbal communication skills, particularly with those whose views are different Ability to work in groups and with teams of people across cultural, geographic, and language boundaries Creative thinking and problem solving of multidisciplinary, open-ended problems, using entrepreneurial thinking Ability to access, understand, and apply new information, particularly within a barrage of information Writing and math skills, plus analytical, quantitative, and strategic thinking Knowing how to learn and using it to influence others Technology proficiency with the ability to flex and adapt in a rapidly changing technology landscape
OUR START
THE OFFICE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT ALLOWS STUDENTS TO EXPLORE CAREERS WITH THE STRONG INTEREST INVENTORY, THE CAREER INTEREST CLUSTER MODEL, AND PEER MENTORING. THE GUSTAVUS MENTORING PROGRAM PAIRS STUDENTS WITH ALUMNI IN SIMILAR FIELDS.
3. A CHIEVE FINANCIAL, INSTITUTIONAL, AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY OUR START
INCREASE IN GUSTAVUS PELL GRANT RECIPIENTS, 2002 TO 2016*
2015 PERCENTAGE OF PELL GRANT RECIPIENTS AT OUR COMPETITORS*
2002
2006
14
%
ST. OLAF
14.1
TOP 10
16
%
2011
2016 (est.)
28 24 %
%
CARLETON
MACALESTER
GUSTAVUS
14.4
16.4
27.2
percent in the nation for four-year
2014 PER-STUDENT ENDOWMENT AMOUNT AT OUR COMPETITORS* CARLETON $390, 191 MACALESTER $317,003 ST. OLAF $141,059 GUSTAVUS $55,500
for graduation rate.
Build projects: renovation of Alfred Nobel Hall of Science (see page 24) and A.H. Anderson Hall. Others on the horizon.
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
Clearly we’re doing more with less. Imagine what we could with more.
* Sources for these pages include U.S. Census Bureau, Bloomberg Job Skills Report 2016, IPEDS, educationaltrust.org, collegeresults.com, and more.
15
THE NEXT 10 YEARS
WHO WILL LEAD
It takes a village to manifest a vision. Here are just a few of the Gustavus leaders who will move us from dreaming to doing.
Brenda Kelly
Glen Lloyd
Tom Rooney
Provost and Dean
Director of Alumni and Parent
Chief Financial Officer, Vice
of the Faculty
Engagement; Chair of President’s
President for Finance, and
Council for Diversity, Equity, and
Treasurer
Inclusion Will act as: Goal 2 co-chair. Excited about: The vision calls all
Will act as: a key supporter to the goal
Will act as: a steering committee
of every student having a mentor during
member and tri-chair of Goal 3.
their Gustavus education. Excited about: The foundation of
of us to action. Gustavus faculty, staff, administrators, and students have a role
Excited about: the commitment of
Gustavus—which includes its academic
in living into the vision statement and
our employees to see opportunities to
offerings, amazing faculty, and brand—
making that vision a reality.
provide the best Gustavus experience
is very strong. Coupling the College’s
possible.
strong foundation with the new strategic
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
Impressed by: the way the plan
16
plan will allow us to propel forward in
stretches us to reach beyond the
Already in progress: The success of
Gustavus community on The Hill, to
the Gustavus Mentoring Program—it
extend into the local, regional, and
shows what’s possible when employees
Already in progress: The entire
global community, and the way it allows
and alumni partner to give our students
Gustavus team is passionate about their
our external partners to reach in.
the chance to succeed.
work, exuding contagious enthusiasm
healthy and sustainable ways.
during the early implementation stages. “This is not a plan for the academic
“The employees of Gustavus with our
program or student life or advancement;
alumni can make the best Gustavus
“The plan charts a bold, lofty direction
this is a plan for all of us, and all
together. We need each other for that
that is simply articulated, measurable,
members of the community are engaged.”
aspirational future.”
and allows for fast followers.”
—PRESIDENT REBECCA BERGMAN
”
Herchran Singh ’17
Kathi Tunheim
Cynthia Yang ’10
Student Senate Co-President;
Associate Professor of
Assistant Dean of Admission
Student Representative on the
Management; Board of Trustees
and Coordinator of International
Strategic Action Team and Acts
Endowed Chair in Management
Recruiting
Steering Commitee
and Leadership
Impressed by: the clarity and
Will act as: special assistant to the
Will act as: a leader in creating
organization of the plan. When we
President for strategy.
key initiatives to implement for
were writing this document, we worked
Goal 1.
hard to ensure that each word carried
Impressed by: the fact that this
weight and importance throughout
plan is more focused and concise than
Excited about: We are recognizing
the plan.
past strategic plans at Gustavus and
that it takes a village to make it work
others I have seen at other colleges and
—it requires and involves the entire
universities.
community. The work is going to be
Excited about: the fact that the
done. It is absolutely achievable.
vision calls for action, and that we are working towards positive, constructive
Already in progress: The faculty has
change.
worked diligently this past summer and
Already in progress: Diversity
fall to critically review our curriculum
is already being recognized as an
and infuse it with new ideas.
important goal, across departments—
Already in progress: There is significant discussion about integrative, interdisciplinary curriculum change.
I’m working with people I have not “We are going to stay rooted and
traditionally worked with.
committed to being a college of the ELCA, “Change is happening. Sometimes we need
which positions us well to be a leading
“This is a charge by the President that is
to feel uncomfortable so that we can truly
institution in helping address the great
supported by the whole college. It’s a great
appreciate the good of the outcome.”
challenges of the world.”
future for Gustavus because of that.”
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
“
THIS PLAN WILL LIVE IN OUR ACTIONS.
17
4
THE NEXT
YEARS
ON THE FAR SIDE of adulthood, your years in college can feel like a short (and distant) memory. But when you’re living it, college can feel like an eternity— a wonderful one and, at times, a scary one. Personal transformation is like that. You aren’t the same coming out that you are going in. You take some big leaps. Gustavus too will take some big leaps the next four years as the Gustavus Acts strategic plan becomes action. What these five students will experience here will be different than those who have come before. They will grow as the College grows. And yet they will be Gusties: caring, daring, and smart. These are five new Gusties we’re excited to know. Here’s to their four
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
years of seismic change—and ours too.
18
Eight semesters. Forty eight big months. Here are the stories of five first-year students. This is who we are right now. by Stephanie Wilbur Ash
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
Five fabulous first-years: (l to r): Aleah Felton, Avery Bachman, Alice Nguyen, Christian Araya, and Stephanie Coe.
19
ALEAH FELTON I’m excited to figure out what kind of person I want to be.” Both her brothers attended, and they prepped Felton on the important things: “The Aleah Felton Lake Elmo Looking forward to the musical, surprised by how good the Gustavus Choir sounds
best place to study, the best late night snack at the Caf,” she says. (It’s chocolate ice cream with chocolate sauce and a banana.) But there have been surprises. For one, she earned a spot in the Gustavus Choir. Coming from an all-girls high school, the sound has blown her mind. “It’s a different sound than I’ve ever heard, from people who actually like to sing, want to sing, and are good at singing. I’ve never been in a choir that sounded so good unrehearsed.” Another surprise? Finding the courage to audition for the musical. “That was scary. I got flustered, but I got a call back.” (And a featured role, too.) Where will this early performance take her? “I’m still exploring my options,” says this
Avery Bachman Saint Peter Looking forward to more competition in football, surprised by how busy he is
grounded woman. She is interested in education. She loves her sociology class. She sees how her acting class can apply to any profession. She’s exploring new friendships too, especially in her First-Term Seminar. “A lot of the students are from homes who have immigrated to the States, and it’s cool to see what type of cultures people are living.” No rush to make any hard choices, she says. “I don’t know what it is about turning 18, but suddenly people are very serious about asking you, ‘What do you want to do with your life?’ I’m just excited to be on the journey.”
•
AVERY BACHMAN “I never wanted to go anywhere else.” He follows a long line of Gusties—his parents, two of his siblings—and from there Alice Nguyen Hanoi, Vietnam Looking forward to dinner with her friends every night, surprised by the care of professors and Minnesota’s beauty
grew a love of Gustavus football. Bachman plays on the team he has followed for years, “I love competing. I love going to football practice and going to meetings.” And he loves being busy. “Some days I have classes from 8 to 2 and football from 3 to 7,” he says, but it keeps him productive. Speaking of class, “It’s tough but it’s going really well. I’m studying physics. I’d like to be an engineer,” he says. But he adds, “Who knows what will happen in the next two or three years.” Certainly he’ll grow with teammates. “This year we have one of the most diverse football
Christian Araya Chicago, IL Looking forward to academic challenge, surprised by Minnesota nice
teams Gustavus has had—they’re from all over the country. But as you practice together and spend time together, you forget differences.”
“Who knows what will happen in the next two or three years. — first-year Avery Bachman
He won’t forget his first-year exhaustion. “Some days I’m just really happy when I get to lay in my bed and go to sleep.” Once football’s over, “I’ll have to find something more to do,” he says. “I’ll look into FCA
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
(Fellowship of Christian Athletes). Faith and athletics have had an impact on my life, and
20
Stephanie Coe Wenatchee, WA Looking forward to singing with the Lucia singers, surprised by how much it feels like family
it’s a way to keep the faith strong through what I do in sports.”
•
ALICE NGUYEN “This campus! It’s like walking in a park.” This international student is delighted with the teaching. “I was completely lost in a class and now my professor works to see if I am understanding the lectures. She knows me.” The writing is hard, but tutors help with ideas and editing. Other students are great role models. “They talk a lot and participate in class. I’m learning from them.” Her learning has a cultural breadth. “I have friends from Vietnam, Bangladesh,
China, Japan. My roommate is Lao and Vietnamese, and she is from the Twin Cities. I
129 students of the Class of 2020
have American friends, friends from Sweden, from Pakistan.” Their great joy is sharing
are legacies—from families whose
their traditional food with each other, almost every night. “It is so fun, it takes us at least
parents, grandparents, or siblings
an hour to eat,” she says.
attended Gustavus. See Gustie
There will be no wait-and-see exploration for Nguyen regarding a major. It’s economics. Her campus job with event services is a perfect pairing for her plans to work
alums who are now Gustie parents beginning on page 30.
in the hospitality industry: she helps set up events, sound systems, and microphones. Sometime during her four years, she hopes to take a course she’s heard about on landing a dream job. She is convinced that job will be hotel manager. In the meantime, she is relishing Minnesota’s beauty. “In Vietnam the trees do not change their colors that much. Here, I just want to kick the leaves and see them fly. And soon there will be snow.”
•
CHRISTIAN ARAYA “I want to start strong.” He speaks five languages. His goal is to become a cardiologist. He has a full academic scholarship. “I always push myself,” he says. “That’s the result of that.” Araya is from Ethiopia, he immigrated to the U.S. when he was 14. Though Gustavus people who attended Araya’s high school on Chicago’s north side. He found Gustavus through extended family in Minneapolis. “They told me there was a college here that was really awesome.” But life here is definitely a departure from Chicago’s urban core. He knew he was in Minnesota, he says, “when my dad stopped his car to check a map and none of the cars behind us honked their horns.” His first semester has him taking three writing classes—an intense load. But he is wholly engaged, particularly in “Faith and Religion in Science,” as well as his philosophy class. Beyond class? Just occasional intramural soccer. “My purpose is education. I have a lot of pressure from my family. They don’t want me to slack off.” He wants that pressure to come from his professors too. “They are always behind me. I like to be pushed.”
•
STEPHANIE COE “I’m far away, but I feel like I’m where I need to be.” She saw Gustavus brochures at an ELCA gathering, read the core values, and thought, “This is so me!” Her parents, who raised her in western Washington State, were a bit reticent. They’d never set foot in Minnesota. “But when my mom came to visit with me, she could see me on campus,” Coe says. The weather was actually a selling point. Coe is a competitive figure skater, and ice (particularly an on-campus rink) matters, as does the Gustavus figure skating club. “Having a group of people that all share a passion for something I do has really helped with the transition,” she says. Other things that matter: the ability to study music and science, and science with faith. “Here I get to think in the classroom, how does this relate to being a spiritual person? I can grow in all the areas that are important to me.” And her family in Washington state? “It’s been hard to be away from them,” she says. But her boyfriend’s cousin is her roommate, and his grandparents are Minnesotan. She met that boyfriend at that same ELCA gathering she met Gustavus. In many ways, family and church surround her here, she says. “Minnesota is the Land of Lutherans.” •
35 + 13
Number of states and countries the Class of 2020 hails from.
3.61
Average GPA for the Class of 2020. The average ACT score is 27.
27 + 16
Oldest admitted first-year student + youngest admitted first-year student.
Nguyen It’s the second most popular student last name on campus this year. The first? Anderson. Tied for third: Carlson and Peterson.
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
is more ethnically and culturally diverse than it has ever been, it’s not nearly the mix of
21
SPORTS
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
Heritage
22
The names of the men of 1937 are lost to history. But in today’s remake photo, (l to r) are Alex Koopmeiners, Joncarlo Westerlund, Jake Bushey, Sam Majka, Drew Aspinwall, Erik Johnson, Will Holtan, Tim Donohue, Joe Lindberg, Jared Docken, Evan Erickson.
It will always be one of the most storied
YEARS OF HOCKEY
programs in collegiate men’s hockey. And
Don Roberts ’56 died on July 24 at the age of 83 after battling degenerative heart disease. In 1964, athletics director Lloyd
it began in 1937 with George Myrum,
Hollingsworth asked Roberts to re-
then director of physical education, who
start the men’s hockey program, and
drummed up the interest and funds. It was an
he accepted despite having never
inauspicious start: The Gusties fell to Carleton
played or coached hockey.
in their first-ever intercollegiate game in 1936. It would take until 1939 and the natural ice of the on-campus fieldhouse (cost to build: $33,354) for Gustie victory one. There were a few more lean years. The College went without a team during World
When he retired in 1997, it was as the winningest coach in the history of National Collegiate Athletic
War II (and the fieldhouse was taken over by the Navy). Seasons in 1951 and 1963 were
Association Division III men’s ice
lost because (really?!) there wasn’t much interest. But in 1964, athletics director Lloyd
hockey.
Hollingsworth asked Don Roberts ’56 to restart the program. Another inauspicious start: In Roberts’ first season, the Golden Gusties skated to a record of 1-14. But that’s just a blip in history. Gustavus men’s hockey quickly became a dominant force
His teams claimed 13 league titles and finished in the top four at the National Association of Intercollegiate
in the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, securing 12 of the next 13 league
Athletics championships for 10
titles. After Gustavus joined the NCAA in 1980, Roberts’ Gusties would play in the NCAA
consecutive years (1968–77). His
national tournament seven times, including in the Frozen Four in 1982. Roberts coached
teams played in the NCAA national
the Golden Gusties to an overall record of 532-290-25 in 33 seasons (1964–97). His 532
tournament seven times. Roberts was
wins currently rank 20th all-time across all divisions of college hockey and sixth in Division
named MIAC Coach of the Year seven
III. In 1973, Lund Ice Arena was constructed as the new home for hockey. Some alums will
times, as well as AHCA and NAIA
remember the brisk first two seasons; there wasn’t a roof until 1975. Three years ago, Lund
National Coach of the Year. In 2009
underwent renovations to once again make it a premier Division III hockey facility.
he was recognized for his outstanding
Today, under the current coach of 17 years, Brett Petersen, Gustie men’s hockey nears
service to college hockey with the
its 900th win with a winning percentage of .571. The program boasts 46 All-Americans,
Hobey Baker Legends of Hockey
including one AHCA Player of the Year, David Martinson (2010). The Gusties have earned
Award. The Gustavus ice arena is
a place in the NCAA Division III Tournament six times, with a runner-up finish in 2009.
named in his honor.
History continues, with 14 league championships, an all-time record of 863-641-81 and
He is survived by his wife, Nancy ’56, and children Gregg ’80, Tim ’83,
full circle too.
Mike, and Susan ’90.
UPCOMING TO NOTE
a mark of 573-436-50 in the MIAC. And with those new/old throwback jerseys, it comes
Athletics Winter Showcase January 7, 2017
$15 per person. Register by
Four contests on campus, plus a hot dog, a drink, and a full
Jan. 3, online at gustavus.edu/
day of cheering with students, fans, and alums.
forms/athletics-winter-showcase-16, or call Diane Stocker at
1 p.m.
Women’s Basketball vs. St. Benedict
2 p.m.
Women’s Hockey vs. St. Norbert
3 p.m.
Men’s Basketball vs. Saint John’s
7:05 p.m.
Men’s Hockey vs. UW-Stout
507-933-6512.
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
75
MUCH HAS CHANGED IN GUSTAVUS HOCKEY SINCE THE ’37–’38 SEASON. AND SOME THINGS NEVER WILL.
THE COACH. THE LEGEND.
23
Gratitude The Promise of Nobel Hall THE NOBEL HALL RENOVATION IS PICKING UP STEAM. HERE’S WHAT IT WILL MEAN TO THE STUDENTS WHO WILL LEARN THERE, IN THE WORDS OF SOME OF THE FACULTY WHO HELPED SHAPE ITS DESIGN AND WILL BRING IT TO LIFE.
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
The prep and storage greenhouse space in a renovated Nobel Hall will provide ample light, controlled chambers for specialized work, and large sinks with long-necked watering attachments. No such space currently exists on campus.
24
ON INTEGRATED LEARNING
ON CHANGING STUDENTS’ LIVES
“Classroom experiences integrate with laboratories, cell culture,
“Many of the new teaching laboratories will also serve as student
microscopy and imaging rooms, greenhouse and collection areas,
research spaces, increasing the number of students who can actively
and more. I am excited to see how disciplines interact and learn
engage in independent research.”
from one another.”
—Julie Bartley, professor, geology and environmental studies
—Pamela Kittelson, professor, biology and environmental studies “The Nobel Hall renovation positions Gustavus to train healthcare “Classroom-lab suites were designed by professors from geology,
professionals and science researchers by engaging with real-world
chemistry, geography, and environmental studies. I’ve heard of no
challenges. From global climate change to orphaned diseases, our
other school with such a shared vision for integrated learning.”
students will study and conduct research in areas that matter.”
—Laura Triplett, professor, geology and environmental studies
—Scott Bur, professor, chemistry
FOR MORE THAN 50 YEARS the Alfred Nobel Hall of Science has served the campus’s commitment to science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). Kicked off with an anonymous $25 million gift in 2015 (the largest in the College’s history) the Nobel renovation plans are drawn. When completed, it will push the College’s teaching of STEAM into the 21st century, delivering a distinctive, modern education in the sciences that is fully integrated with the liberal arts. And, as nearly every student has at least one class in Nobel, the renovation will benefit all. “PHILANTHROPY WILL SHAPE the learning experiences of our students for the next decade,” says professor Julie Bartley. This November, President Bergman and her husband, Tom, personally donated $4 million for science equipment, student and faculty research and collaboration, an endowed neuroscience professorship, and contributions to the Gustavus Fund. Both President Bergman, who spent 26 years at Medtronic (14 of them as a senior executive), and Tom, chief of neurosurgery at Hennepin County Medical Center, believe in and embrace the sciences within the liberal arts tradition, and they understand philanthropy will drive this at Gustavus. ON THE NEW PERFORMANCE SPACES “We will have two up-to-date performance spaces equipped with current performance —Micah Maatman, professor, theatre and dance
More than $33 million of the $69 million needed for the Nobel Hall
“The fact that the sciences and the arts will be sharing the same building indicates
renovation has been raised. Several
that we recognize that cross pollination between these disciplines is possible, indeed
opportunities to invest still exist. To
necessary.”
learn more about the renovation and
—Melissa Rolnick, professor, theatre and dance
ways to give, visit gustavus.edu/ giving/projects/nobelhall.
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
technologies. Few liberal arts colleges can boast of this.”
25
2016 ALUMNI BOARD MEMBERS
G USTIES
Gordon Mansergh ’84 (president), senior behavioral scientist, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Kara Buckner ’97 (vice president), marketing consultant J. C. Anderson ’82, partner/attorney, Gray Plant Mooty
Greetings from the Gustavus Alumni Board!
Lydia Benge-Briggs ’13, business analyst, Boom Lab
We are pleased to share with you several developments regarding our efforts over the past year, including some results from the February 2016 Alumni Survey (see facing page). The board’s general direction in the coming two years builds on our recent theme of A.C.T. (Accountability through Communication and Transparency) by adding the critical ingredient of relevancy: ACT Relevant. Brilliant, right? A few highlights of other current board initiatives: Alumni Legacy Banners on campus. We will implement banners on campus for alumni legacies who have changed the world. This is a particularly unique distinction that will be awarded to only a handful of historically distinct alumni. Distinguished Alumni Citation Awardee wall plaques. To date, we have 232 Distinguished Alumni Citation awardees, and the board is developing a strategic plan for permanent on-campus recognition of them. Alumni Voices: I Am Gustavus to be available online. We are initiating a series of selfieoriented, brief videos of alumni describing their life and work and how they are making a difference in the world. Documentation of board and other volunteer hours. For the first time, the alumni board will document our volunteer hours, both general and expertise, for overall accountability and for future ventures and funding.
Bob Brown ’83, staff neurologist/professor, Mayo Clinic Michael Bussey ’69, senior consultant, Donor by Design Group, LLC Comfort Dolo ’14, on-campus college recruiter, ServeMinnesota Action Network Sara Schnell Elenkiwich ’10, operations, Sparboe Farms Cathy Villars Harms ’85, vice president of marketing, Tecmark LLC Theresa Gienapp ’97, director of planned giving, Macalaster College Brenda Kardock ’90, account specialist, FOX 47 KXLT-TV Stephanie Kendall ’76, executive consultant, Smarter Workforce, IBM Corporation Peter Kitundu ’92, general counsel, Blue Cross Blue Shield Todd Krough ’85, vice president/financial advisor, Bernstein Private Wealth Management Damon Larson ’84, librarian/research coach, Chaparral High School Jane Norman Leitzman ’69, teacher, retired Ginny Kirkegaard Leppart ’76, teacher, retired Kari Petrasek Merz ’99, attorney, Petrasek Law PLLC Dan Michel ’90, digital content manager, Feeding America Kay Rethwill Moline ’56, (emeritus member), retired Gustavus nursing faculty
We look forward to sharing with you more about who we are and what we do.
Dan Myers ’04, wealth advisor, Thrivent Financial
Sincerely,
Esther Mulder ’08, public defender, Hennepin County
Gordon Mansergh, 1984 President, Alumni Board of Directors
Glen Lloyd Director, Office of Alumni and Parent Engagement
Leslie Nielsen ’81, owner/manager, Meloy Park Florist Sharon Peterson Robinson ’64, retired, special education—State Hospital Vidya Sivan ’02, print and online communications specialist, Harvard Kennedy School Kristin Johns Young ’86, senior financial advisor, Ameriprise Financial Services Catherine Asta ’75 (immediate past president) Chris Rasmussen ’88 (past president)
26
Alumni Association
CLASS NEWS and information to be included in the Alumni section of the Quarterly should be sent to: Office of Alumni and Parent Engagement, Gustavus Adolphus College, 800 West College Avenue, Saint Peter, MN 56082-1498 alumni@gustavus.edu | 800-487-8437 | gustavus.edu/alumni
2016 ALUMNI SURVEY FINDINGS
SATISFACTION AND CONNECTEDNESS
NEW BOARD OFFICERS
IN JANUARY 2016, THE BOARD CONDUCTED THE FIRST SURVEY
Robert Brown ’83 neurosurgeon and professor, Mayo Clinic and Medical School
OF THE FULL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION IN DECADES. HERE ARE SOME OF THE RESULTS RELATED TO CONNECTEDNESS TO GUSTAVUS.
Overall, how satisfied are you with your experience while
Todd Krough ’85 vice president and financial advisor, Bernstein Private Wealth Management
a student at Gustavus?
93 percent are satisfied or very satisfied,
7
• Satisfaction with student experience differed by decade, with slightly lower “high satisfaction” student experience reported by graduates in the 1960s and 1970s. • Racial/ethnic minority and LGBT alumni were also less “very satisfied” with their student experiences than other alumni.
93
Overall, how connected Esther Mulder ’08 attorney and public defender, Hennepin County
JC Anderson ’82 attorney and partner, Gray Plant Mooty
Overall,
with the majority “very satisfied”
did you feel to Gustavus
how connected
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do you feel to Gustavus now?
63 percent feel highly, extremely, or moderately connected
26 percent feel moderately connected 11 percent feel slightly or not at all connected
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• Minnesota residents feel slightly more connected to Gustavus now than non-residents. • Males feel slightly more connected than females. • Graduation decade results were mixed, with a general trend toward lower proportions of connectedness for recent graduates and higher connectedness among older graduates.
11
while you were a student?
67 percent felt extremely or highly connected 33 percent felt moderately or slightly connected 1 percent felt not connected at all • Racial/ethnic minority alumni felt less “highly connected” as students than white/Caucasian alumni. • Graduates of the 1970s reported the lowest level of high connectedness as students, and the most recent graduates from 2010-15 reported the highest level.
67 1 33
For a more complete picture of the results or to learn more, visit gustavus.edu/ alumni.
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
Comfort Dolo ’14 college recruiter, ServeMinnesota Action Network
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MY GUSTAVUS Marcia Page ’82, economics with music minor “I CAME WITH A DEERSKIN JACKET WITH FRINGES THAT MY DAD
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HAD MADE FOR ME. I WAS RIGHT OFF THE FARM.”
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My mom was enamored with Gustavus and the idea of a liberal arts college where I could take piano lessons for two years. My maternal grandmother was the first woman student body president at Gustavus. On the other hand, I was convinced I was going to be a pharmacist. My dad was a pharmacist in Olivia. We agreed I would go to Gustavus for two years and transfer to a pharmacy school. From an intellectual standpoint I was completely overwhelmed. My graduating high school class numbered 67. I did not know what a syllabus was. I completely ran into a buzz saw in organic chemistry. I literally did not understand it. But during my sophomore year I took a J-term class called "Math of Finance" with Professor Stanley Brue and I absolutely understood that—from a practical sense, in work and in life. It was transformational for me to know I could get up the curve and be competitive among the smartest people I had ever met, and I told my parents I wanted to stay at Gustavus. But as a family we faced the gap of paying for those next two years. I was fortunate to receive a very meaningful scholarship. And I tutored calculus, I worked in the library, I cleaned the cafeteria for Ma Young. I cleaned every table and vacuumed, and those were the days of food fights. I won’t forget that. When I graduated, unemployment was high. We would have rejection letter parties. I was pragmatic, and I was able to get an MBA in four quarters from the U of M. By that time things had improved, and there were more options. I went to Cargill for five years, then joined a start-up entrepreneurial hedge fund, then founded Värde Partners with colleagues, including George Hicks ’75. Gustavus was fundamental in teaching me to be confident without being arrogant. That is very empowering, especially for women. I think about this now even more than I did then. I was at a place where I felt I belonged intellectually, and I was with a strong group of friends. Those core values of faith and fairness are still a binding piece for us.
At Its Core Page and colleagues founded Värde Partners, a global alternative investment advisor, 23 years ago. The focus is “creating value for investors and empowering the common good they seek.” The company manages $12 billion in assets. Värde is the Swedish word for value.
The Legacy Continues Many former Gustie students who are now Gustie parents took time out from their busy (and nostalgic) Move-In Day in September to pause for a photo. Turn the page to see who among your classmates ushered in the next generation of Gusties this year—one mini-fridge at a time. Did we miss you on Move-In Day? Reach out at gustavus.edu/alumni. Mark and Brenda (Wilcox) Abraham ’83 with Nicky ’20
Carl Lofgren, Minneapolis, turned a healthy 100 years of age in December.
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Norman A. Nelson, Rockford, IL, is a retired pastor who volunteers at his church and tutors first graders at his local school. He celebrated his 90th birthday and is working on his memoirs. Marion Carlson Stief-Sletten, Eden Prairie, and her husband, Donald, went with Campus Crusade for Christ (CRU) on a mission trip to Ethiopia.
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George A. Olson, Marinette, WI, celebrated 60 years in the ministry and has served as pulpit supply in many congregations since his retirement. Buck Emberg, Tasmania, AU, published two new books, Hard Rails and Wanted, Martin Cash. Hard Rails takes place in the 1930s and 1940s and concerns itself with the railroad and iron ore mines of northern Minnesota. Wanted, Martin Cash is about an Australian bush ranger (similar to Jesse James). Buck is a retired professor at the University of Tasmania, Australia.
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Patti MaedlKrough, Wayzata, retired from her
studio manager position at Lonna Mosow’s Center for Mind Body Fitness. Gordon L. Thies, Temecula, CA, is a personnel officer at Global Recordings Network.
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Jim Clanton, Omaha, NE, retired in December 2015. He and his wife, Mary, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary last year.
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Rocky Renquist, Palmerston North, NZ, retired from New Zealand Plant and Food Research Institute. He now volunteers for the New Zealand Green Party.
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Lynne Mattke Schulz, St. Louis Park, is a professional organizer, decluttering and organizing homes. She also writes Lynne’s Dance News, a list of all dance events in the Twin Cities with venues and instructors.
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Mark A. Briggs, Lino Lakes, is retired from his analytical lab specialist position for the State of Minnesota.
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Steven J. Griffith, North Wales, PA, retired in June from his position as senior vice president and academic dean at Simpson College in Indianola, IA. He has now formed SJGriffith &
Associates, a consulting firm for higher education institutions and other non-profits.
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Jean Woods Briggs, Lino Lakes, is retired from her aide position for Forest Lake Area Schools. Gloria Anderson Dietel, Brooklyn Park, is retired from Northwestern Book Stores. Becky Hines Elsenpeter, Buffalo, is an infusion nurse specialist at North Memorial Health—Monticello Cancer Center in Monticello. Mark A. Eskola, Duluth, is retired from his orchestra director position at Duluth Public Schools. He is now self-employed writing commercial film score music. Marcia Good, Brainerd, is an administrative assistant to the chief nursing officer at Cuyuna Regional Medical Center. Rand R. Jensen, Auburn, WA, is a buyer for Duck Delivery in Washington state. Donna Jacobson Kiffe, Great Falls, VA, is a garden specialist at Meadow Lark Botanical Gardens in Vienna, VA. She works for Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority. Kathy Knudson-Mestnik, Saint Cloud, is retired from her teaching position at Sauk RapidsRice Public Schools. Reverend Ted Kunze, Slayton, still serves as lead pastor at Christ
Lutheran in Slayton and Faith in Avoca. For the past year he has also been assisting Bishop Jon Anderson, serving as Shetek conference minister in the Southwestern Minnesota Synod, ELCA. Eric P. Larson, Lakeville, works in multinational claims for QBE Insurance Company. Melinda Drysdale Lundberg, Plymouth, retired from her Ameriprise position in February 2016. Deb Cairns Mades, Maple Grove, is director of learning resources for Heritage Christian Academy. Kathy Kilgust Marsh, Covington, WA, retired from Weyerhaeuser Company. Craig V. Miller, Lantana, TX, is chief financial officer for KanPak in Wichita, KS. LaVonne Carlson Moore, Belle Plaine, is a teacher at Southwest Metro Educational Cooperative in Shakopee. Robert D. Morris, Plymouth, is self employed as a consultant. Becky Pyle, Westminster, CO, is an inpatient case manager for the Pediatric Heart Institute: Children’s Hospital Colorado. Mary Raber, St. Louis, MO, received her PhD in 2015 from the International Baptist Theological Seminary. Larry Salo, Virginia retired from his science teacher position at Northland Learning Center.
Tim Schuetzle, Mandan, ND, is chair of the department of behavioral sciences at the University of Mary. Leslyn J. Skog, Davis, CA, is a transitional kindergarten teacher at Suisun Elementary School in Suisun City, CA. Karen Anderson Willyard, Eden Prairie, is a business analyst for Prudential Life in Plymouth. Barb Mattson Zust, Saint Peter, is professor of nursing at Gustavus Adolphus College. Todd A. Zwickey, Seabeck, WA, is a cornea/refractive surgeon at Achieve Laser and Eye Specialists in Silverdale, WA.
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Kathy Bush Larson, Lakeville, retired from his tax preparer position with Wings Financial Tax Services.
Mark H. Lundberg, Plymouth, retired from his pilot position with Netjets Aviation in October 2015. Kris Miller Nelson, Richwood, retired this year from Detroit Lakes School District as a physical education teacher. Sandy E. Nelson, Richwood, retired from Detroit Lakes Public Schools as an elementary principal and is working for Minnesota State University-Moorhead supervising student teachers.
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Carmen (Nelson) ’90 and Jason Aufderheide ’90 with Max ’20
Irene MakirinneSalo, Virginia, is a personal banker for Frandsen Bank and Trust. Rhonda Wojahn Swanson, Brentwood, TN, works with St. Thomas Health in Nashville. She is also an organist at First Presbyterian Church in Nashville.
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Greg Hagge, Minneapolis, is chief financial officer for Stonehill Reinsurance Partners in Bloomington. Robert A. Withers, Eden Prairie, is senior vice president and a financial advisor for 360 Financial in Minnetonka.
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Kathy Reid Walker, Milwaukee, WI, is a pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Eau Claire, WI.
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Lori Lofgren Amundson, Bloomington, just had her 30-year anniversary with Edina Realty. Jean Andreasen, St. Paul, is a program administrator for NCR-
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Gina (Thomas) ’91 and Craig Lokken with Addie ’20 and family
SARE, one of four regional offices administering the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program (part of USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture). Carrie Armstrong ’81, Forest Lake, received the 2015 Research, Development & Engineering Innovation & Service Excellence Award. The RISE Above Award recognizes significant technical discoveries and innovation contributing to Ecolab’s mission, customers and success. Debra A. Baker, Opelika, AL, works at Auburn University and also as corporate relations officer in the advancement office at Harbert College of Business. Jon Cooper, St. Charles, IL, is a driver for Illinois Central Bus Company. Kris Belin Cooper, St. Charles, IL, is an elementary music teacher at Elgin School District. Renae M. Crosby, Hillsborough, NC, is an investigator
Natha and Keir Townsend ’78 with Keiran Townsend ’20 and Teagan
for GlaxoSmithKline. Olaf M. Elander, Missoula, MT, retired from Kaiser Permanente, the California-based health care provider. Joy M. Folkvord, Tucson, AZ, recently moved to Tucson to work as associate scientific investigator at the University of Arizona. Jo Gjertson-Frederiksen, Douglaston, NY, received her EdD in art and art education from Teachers College, Columbia University in February 2016. She is the director of Education in Dance and Related Arts in New York City. Stacy Finden Grothem, Nisswa, is retired from her fourthgrade teacher position at Prairie Woods Elementary. Barbara Halverson, Denver, CO, is project manager, IT, for United Airlines. Bryan D. Johnson, North Mankato, sold his private dental practice after 30 years. He is currently a professor at Minnesota State University-Mankato and
assistant boys and girls tennis coach at Mankato West High School. He was honored as Man of the Year in 2015 in Madison Lake. He plays cello in the MSU Community Orchestra. Patti Grammer Kirkham, Houston, TX, works for the Houston Country Club and Quality Life Fitness in Houston. Joyce Detlefsen Komorouski, Burnsville, is retired from her teaching position at RosemountApple Valley-Eagan Public Schools. Craig P. Kozak, Fort Collins, CO, works with sales at Lee’s Cyclery in Fort Collins. Janna Larson LaFountaine, Saint Cloud, was promoted to full professor at the College of Saint Benedict. She led a study abroad program to London (CSBSJU) last spring. Mike LaFountaine, St. Cloud, co-led a study abroad program to London (CSBSJU) with wife Janna in Spring 2016.
Deanne (Sand) Johnson ’89 and with Ella ’20 and Eric (not pictured, dad Dave Johnson ’88)
Sara Sandvig Ljungman, Ann Arbor, MI, is assistant professor at the University of Michigan. Peter N. Lundell, Walnut, CA, is pastor at Walnut Blessing Church in Walnut. Jim Mariano, Appleton, WI, works for Thedacare Medical in Appleton. Diane M. Nelson, St. Paul, is a volunteer at the American Swedish Institute. Mike Petersen, Minneapolis, is a dentist for Petersen Family Dental. Kris Samelian Potter, Minneapolis, is a lead teacher at Judson Preschool in Minneapolis. She received her kindergarten license and pre-primary license from Augsburg College in 2014. Jon Rudberg, Hibbing, is an MD at Fairview Hospital Systems. Bob Schnell, Wayzata, is senior vice president for Christensen Group in Minnetonka. Tom P. Skold, Decorah, IA, is an executive chef for Hotel
Mike Nordberg ’93, Saint Michael, worked on the printing, foiling, and binding of the Saint John’s Bible Heritage Edition from 2007–2013. He and his family were invited to Westminster Cathedral in London last year to witness the knighthood of the artistic director, Donald Jackson, for Jackson's work on the Bible. Gustavus is proud to have one of these beautiful Bibles in the Gustavus Adolphus College Archives.
Winnesheik. He oversees food production for the hotel’s restaurant as well as the banquet and event facility. Kathy Leibbrand Swanson, Hastings, is a school nurse at Hastings Public Schools.
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Robin Peterson Hughes, Mankato, is a choir director for Minnesota Ambassadors of Music, which is comprised of high school students from Minnesota who tour and perform throughout Europe every other summer.
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Jodie Boulet-Daughters, Santa Barbara, CA, started her own business, JBD Trading Company 2016, for which she is an independent sales representative for Legacy Sportswear on the central coast, selling sportswear to wineries and breweries. Jackie Hunt Christensen, Minneapolis, recently attended the 4th World Parkinson’s Congress, where her two books The First Year: Parkinson’s Disease and Life with a Battery-Operated Brain: a Patient’s Guide to Deep Brain Stimulation were featured in the Congress’ Book Nook. Andrea Sjogren, Savage, is an adult and youth programs coordinator for Hopkins Public Schools. She has been working
Steven P. Nasby ’85 with Jackson ’20
towards a master’s degree in arts and cultural management from Saint Mary’s University since August 2014.
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Mark Kauffmann, Saint Peter, is vice president of finance for Dyna Technologies, LeCenter.
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Mike “Duebs” Dueber, St. Paul, completed his MBA from the University of St. Thomas and is owner/IT Consultant for Dueber Consulting.
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Clay J. Pearson, Pearland, TX, is the city manager of Pearland and received recognition as one of the top 100 Local Government Officials in the nation, awarded by the Chris Traeger List.
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Sue Brown, Sedalia, CO, is self-employed and the co-owner of The Light of Dog behavioral training. LeAnn Gustafson Lyon, Eagan, is founder and president of aVivoPur. com, which sells nutrition and wellness products. Jeff Steinle, Minneapolis, is an attorney at Steinle Advisor Services. Nate Thompson, Eden Prairie, is a real estate consultant for Edina Realty in Eden Prairie.
Mary (Allen) ’90 and Scott ’90 Blomberg with Jana ’20 and Lydia
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Shane Vail, Edina, has joined Atrix International as general manager. Previously, he was vice president of sales and marketing for Stylmark, a Minnesota-based manufacturer of display fixtures. Before that, he founded Smart Candle, a market-leading global distributor of LED technology that generates flickering light to simulate a wax candle flame.
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Kelle Sauer Anderson, Hudson, WI, is owner and family physician of Olive Tree Functional Medicine Clinic in Hudson, WI. It opened in 2015. Stacy Antonovich Baumann, St. Paul, is a first grade teacher at Deerwood Elementary School in Eagan. Sherri Prange Berg, Stillwater, is a teacher at North St. Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale Public Schools. Zach Breen, Oak Grove, is director of operations for Touchpoint 360 in Mount Prospect, IL. Deb Winters Carlson, St. Paul, is a patent agent for Pauly, DeVries Smith & Deffner. Tanya Schmidt Cervantes, Colorado Springs, CO, is a chemistry and biochemistry technical director at Colorado College.
Corey J. Christensen, Spicer, is a territory sales manager for LDJ Manufacturing. Douglas A. Cowles, St. Paul, is program manager for ProAct. Steve Davis, Madelia, is a senior software developer for RevolutionEHR. Kevin B. Dragseth, St. Paul, is a producer for Twin Cities Public Television. Ryan D. Else, North Oaks, is a hospitalist and vice president of medical affairs for Mercy Hospital. Kirstin Olinger Francis, Apple Valley, is a consumer loan underwriter for Wings Financial Credit Union. Kristin Hannemann Garrett, Minneapolis, is a wealth manager for Financial Empowerment. Katherine Haugland Gatchell, Eden Prairie, is CPA and Partner at Hysjulien & Associates. Kristen Glass Perez, Rock Island, IL, is chaplain and director of vocational exploration at Augustana College. Krista Lynn Vanderhoof Gunderson, Buxton, ND, is a sales and service associate for the United States Postal Service. Lisa Bengtson Gustafson, Ramsey, is a home educator for her kids. Ben Hadden, Plymouth, is the principal IT specialist for Hennepin County Attorney’s Office in Minneapolis.
Katie (Thomspon) ’85 and Scott Holzerland ’85 with Luke ’20 and Erin
Sedrick Hawkins, Harvey, LA, is dean of students at Jefferson Parish Public Schools. He received his master’s degree in educational leadership from Our Lady of Holy Cross College in New Orleans. Tim Hoheisel, Arnolds Park, IA, is founding principal of HMA Cultural Consulting. David Holdhusen, Vermillion, SD, was recently appointed chair of the USD Music Department. Jodi Shamblott Jesser, Plymouth, is senior diversity recruitment specialist for Professional Diversity Network in Chicago, IL. Dave Kamper, Brooklyn Park, is a business agent for the Minnesota Association for Professional Employees. Lynn Cordes Kelly, Yorktown, VA, is a physician’s assistant for Virginia Oncology Associates. She is a volunteer children’s choir director and Girl Scout troop leader. Erin Walton Kerns, Minneapolis, is an account director for Hanley Wood Marketing. John P. Kerns, Minneapolis, is a musician at Spirit Garage and Bethlehem Lutheran Church . Kathy Scott Koch, Woodbury, is an intervention teacher at Newport Elementary school in Newport. Jason A. Kuerschner, Glencoe, is vice president of First Community Bank, Lester Prairie and Silver Lake.
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
Rick Peterson ’91 and Kristine Hart-Peterson with Andrew ’20
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GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
Peter Nee ’92 and Michele Nee with Madeline ’20 and Connor
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Jason S. Lesteberg, Brooklyn Park, is a senior account executive for Shazam. Dawn Simons Lord, Stillwater, works with Kids in Need. Thuan V. Ly, Columbus, OH, is employed at Ohio State University Wexner Medical. Paul M. Manley, Edina, is managing director for institutional sales at Ladenburg Thalmann and Co. Deborah Ewen Miller, Grand Rapids, works with the Autism Learning Partners and ISD 318. Rachel Frojen Parrinello, Longmont, CO, is a senior geographic information systems specialist for Boulder County, CO. Jared D. Peterson, New Ulm, is an attorney with Fafinski Mark & Johnson Law Firm. Jack D. Sikora, Wauconda, IL, is associate director of RA strategic planning at Abbvie in Abbott Park, IL. Molly Otting Tellijohn, Shakopee, is a CPA for Lurie. Alison Ashmore Thompson, Norman, OK, is a grammar school principal at The Academy of Classical Christian. John R. Urosevich, Highlands Ranch, CO, is chief operating officer of Clifton Larson Allen Wealth Advisors. Tony Velasquez, II, Rice, received his master’s degree in management from the American
Scott Deyo ’89 and Kris (Engdahl) ’89 with Hannah ’20 and Emma, and with Doug Scheunemann ’68
Military University in 2014. He retired from the Marine Corps in June 2015 and now works as a senior systems analyst at Chickasaw Nation Industry.
97|20-YEAR REUNION Save the Date June 2–4, 2017
Sarah Marohn Miller, Eau Claire, WI, earned her master of divinity degree from Luther Seminary. Ordained in June 2016, she has been called to serve as Associate Pastor at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Menomonie, WI. Rachel Brekken Urosevich, Highlands Ranch, CO, is vice president of finance and controller at U.S. Nursing Corporation.
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Sara Frykman Cowles, St. Paul, is director of user experience for Dell.
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Michelle M. Dillavou, Denver, CO, is a stayat-home mom and owner of Ponycaps.com. Angela M. Erickson, Chanhassen, is assistant director of programs and engagement in the Gustavus Advancement Office. Drew L. Gehler, APO, AP is an National Security Fellow currently
Becky (Eggert) ’84 and Mark Thoen with Christian ’20
assigned to the Department of Energy as part of a one-year strategic fellowship. Anne Spence Harris, Hurley, WI, is a mental health therapist at Northland Counseling. Andy Kopperud, Currie, received Minnesota Hospital Association 2016 Caregiver of the Year in May 2016. He owns and operates Painted Prairie Vineyard in Currie, along with wife Krista. Anthony P. Marchetti, Minneapolis, received a Minnesota State Arts Board grant to complete his photography series based on his grandmother’s memories as a refugee at the end of World War II. Josh Salzman, Hastings, is director of emergency department professional practice, revenue, and finance for Regions Hospital. He received his master’s in business administration from the College of St. Scholastica. Meggie Thompson Trenda, Minneapolis, is a 2015 MN Teacher of the Year top 10 finalist.
02|15-YEAR REUNION Save the Date June 2–4, 2017
Irfan M. Rasiwala, Toronto, ON, is the director of merchandise planning for Target Corporation.
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Karen Martinson Cherwien, Andover, is a palliative care chaplain for Allina Health in Minneapolis. She had an article published in the June 2016 issue of Journal of Pastoral Care and Counseling: Pneumaplasticity: Rewiring the Human Soul. Sarah R. Volz, Anchorage, AK, graduated from her fellowship in neonatology in June 2016. During her fellowship, she obtained her master’s in health professions education. She has accepted a position as a neonatologist and has joined the Alaska Neonatology Associate group in Anchorage. Jessica Nelson Bartell, Herman, is attending graduate school for supply chain management at the University of Wisconsin-Superior while working for Superior Industries in purchasing. Ben Eklo, Chaska, is vice president of finance for UnitedHealth Group. Emily M. Miller, Minneapolis, is an international shipment coordinator for The Toro Company. Jason N. Scherer, Mahtomedi, is a creative blogger at EssayVikings.com.
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Andrea Nelson Allyn, Alexandria, is working as an athletic trainer at Heartland Orthopedics in Alexandria, and is completing
Karen (Brueske) ’91 and Tim Anderson ’91 with Abigail ’20 and Jake ’17
her master’s at the University of St. Thomas. Kay Kuiken Aston, Santa Monica, CA, is an actor for commercials, TV, and film. She received a master in fine arts degree from California State University Fullerton. Hannah Johnson Bartos, Hugo, is pastor of family faith formation at Christ Lutheran Church -Marine on St. Croix. Sarah Schueffner Borgendale, Minneapolis, is senior recruiting coordinator for Dorsey & Whitney. Austin Boulay, Plymouth, is store manager of Home Depot. Katie Parks Cochran, Minneapolis, is a sales representative for Novo Nordisk in Minneapolis. Rachel M. Crane, Des Moines, IA, is a teacher for Des Moines Public Schools. Alicia M. Deadrick, Seattle, WA, is membership and community manager for Globalization and Localization Association in Seattle, WA. Nina Diaz, St. Paul, is an associate with Zan Associates in Minneapolis. Matt Forbes, Minneapolis, received his JD degree from Stanford Law School in 2014. He currently works as a law clerk for Chief Judge John Tunheim, U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota in Minneapolis.
Amy Welshons Fox, Hastings, is a brand development and training supervisor for Clarity Cloverdale Fury. Erin Crimmins Grimsby, Duluth, is a physician at Essentia Health in Duluth. Tim Gruenisen, Ankeny, IA, is corporate counsel for Dupont Pioneer in Johnston, IA. Rachel Anderson Gruyah, Bloomington, works for MSP Communications in Minneapolis. Brad Hammer, Minneapolis, is owner and attorney for Vakaris Law Firm.
Jennifer Tibben ’92 with Grace Tibben-Lembke ’20
Aaron D. Hanson, Eden Prairie, is sales manager at Carousel Motor group in Golden Valley. Erica K. Hedstrom, Minneapolis, is a software designer and writer, content and best practices for Meditech in Minnetonka. Erin Foss Hernick, Golden Valley, is a physical therapist for Courage Kenny Rehabilitation. Emily Siedschlag Hyland, Minneapolis, received her master’s in strategic communications management from Concordia University in St. Paul.
Mary Bess (Bullard) ’78 and Chris Beigner with Abbie ’20 and Meghan
Carrie Joines Jenkins, Woodbury, is owner and legal nurse consultant of Jenkins Legal Nurse Consulting in North Carolina. She received her legal nurse consultant certificate program from Duke University in January 2016. Ellen M. Johnson, New Richland, is a registered cardiovascular invasive specialist (RCIS) in the Heart Rhythm Services department at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester. John R. Kraemer, Edina, is vice president of John Kraemer and Sons.
Ben Lundell, Dubuque, IA, is a dentist at Lundell and Hoy Dentistry. Dena Pemble Mathison, Preston, is a high school math teacher for Rushford-Peterson Public Schools. Adam S. Meierbachtol, Victoria, is senior clinical specialist for Park Nicollet Health Services in Bloomington. Mary Furlong Meierbachtol, Bloomington, is a physical therapist at Allina Health. Briana Monson Miller, Mankato, is an elementary teacher
Peter Ford ’84, a special agent with the U.S. Department of State, served as security coordinator and during the Olympics in Rio De Janeiro. He was senior U.S. representative, representing 23 different U.S. federal agencies, responsible for developing, coordinating, and implementing all U.S. government security policies for the 2016 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games. For the 18 months leading up to the Olympics, and during the Olympics, he worked on information sharing between the U.S. and Brazil, overseeing a security training program for Brazilian Olympic security officials, the protection of hard and soft targets, and the timely response to security incidents.
Meredith and Tom Young ’88 with Carl-Erik ’20
at Bridges Community School in Mankato. She is working toward a certificate program for gifted, creative and talented students from the University of St. Thomas. Mary M. Moilanen, Minneapolis, is a business intelligence analyst for Calabrio in Minneapolis. Kristine Overson Moser, Maple Grove, is operations manager for Jeremiah Program. Jared D. Niebuhr, Hopkins, is a firefighter for Kurtz EMS. Kalee Schrupp Nuest, Hancock, is a high school math teacher at Hancock Public Schools in Hancock. She received her master’s of education from the University of Minnesota-Duluth in 2014. Anna Shallue Olson, Savage, is a math teacher for Chaska High School with the Eastern Carver Country School District. She received her master’s in educational leadership from St. Mary’s University in 2015. Mike Phillips, St. Michael, is a physics teacher at Champlin Park High School. Chris Pinahs, Minneapolis, is an attorney for Carlson, Caspers, Vandenburgh, Lindquist and Schuman. Matt Royer, Dayton, is senior project engineer for Parker Hannifen in New Hope.
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
Kari (Swanson) ’92 and Scott Anderson ’89 with Linnea ’20, Cole, and Monica ’18
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John ’90 and Kris ’89 (Syverson) Hemstock with Carter ’20, Evan ’18, and Claire
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Noelle N. Salmonson, Rice, is an intervention teacher for the Saint Francis School District. Danielle Wright Schirm, Grand Rapids, MI, is a resident in OBGYN at Metro Health Hospital in Grand Rapids. Jillian Natwick Schmitz, Dayton, is a nurse practitioner for Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology. Amanda Kimmet Simons, Edina, received a certificate for continued education in ministry from Augsburg College . Matt Swenson ’06 is a press secretary for the United States Trade Representative at the Executive Office of the President of the United States in Washington, DC. Steve Swenson, Minot, ND, is an associate athletic director for Minot State University. Dan Tengwall, Chaska, is Carver County Veteran Services officer and, as an Iraq War veteran captain, he was chosen to speak at Chaska’s Memorial Day services. Alexandra Thompson, Edina, is director of strategy for Socially Smitten in Minneapolis. Robin E. Thomson, St. Paul, is a curator for the entomology department at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. She received her PhD in entomology from there in April 2014. Becca Nolan Weaver, Eden Prairie, is associate director of
Deborah Rae (Wiese) ’79 and David Miller ’80 with Madeline ’20
innovation and growth at United Health Group, Optum. Michelle K. Weber, St. Louis Park, is a German immersion preschool teacher at Kinderstube Immersion Preschool Center. She also is a tutor for Saturday German School. She sells through Etsy, locally performs at the MN Renaissance Festival, and teaches classes at the Germanic-American Institute. Emily Eddy White, Minneapolis, is director of development and marketing for the Food Group in New Hope. Wade W. Wietgrefe, San Francisco, CA, is a senior planner for that city and county. Jackie Winfree, Franklin, OH, is membership and traffic manager for 91.3 WYSO. Chandra Daw Ziegler, Crystal Falls, MI, is a kindergarten teacher at Forest Park Schools there.
07|10-YEAR REUNION Save the Date June 2–4, 2017
Kevin J. Borgendale, Minneapolis, is strategic pricing analyst for Target Corporation. Ryan M. Ike, Seattle, WA, is owner of Ryan Ike Music For Media in Seattle.
Mary (Haugland) ’89, Sue (Skrudkrud) ’66, and Bruce Hougland ’67 with Jacob ’17 and Abby ’20
Ingrid Vick Schwingler, Washington, DC, is working for GRID Alternatives, a national nonprofit solar installer. Zach R. Alwine, Maple Grove, completed his MBA from Augsburg College and is a contract analyst for Medtronic. Kristen M. Burson, Clinton, NY, is an assistant physics professor at Hamilton College. Jenni White Gruenisen, Ankeny, IA, is the women’s tennis coach at Simpson College. Allyson Sheldrew Hammer, Minneapolis, is a compliance manager for Alliance Health System. Chris Leonard, Roseville, graduated from the University of Minnesota Medical School in May 2016. Pieper BrunsvoldLundell, Dubuque, IA, is a neonatal intensive care nurse at Mercy Hospital. Mike Rueckert, Ulen, is a pastor of children, youth, & family at Zion Lutheran Church in Anoka.
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Emily Bulling Bryan, Aurora, CO, is a dance teacher at Parker Performing Arts School in Parker, CO. Brad Abell, Katy, TX, is a rock mechanics physicist for W.D. Von Gonten Laboratories in Houston.
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Ben Brandt, Rochester, MN is store manager of the Rochester south Super Target. Mary Cunningham Carlson, Duluth, is an owner and lead designer at Pure Event Planning & Design in Duluth. Lauren Matykowski Liska, Minneapolis, started a new role as grants and foundations manager at Greater Twin Cities United Way.
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Brittany E. Bauer, Washington, DC, is an international trade analyst for the Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration. Jillian J. Carney, Pensacola, FL, received the Mary McMillan Award from the American Physical Therapy Association. She also received the Outstanding Student Physical Therapist Assistant Award from the Minnesota Physical Therapy Association. Rebekah Jorgenson Cleary, Willmar, is a volunteer coordinator for Mothers of Preschoolers International. Radonna Gasior Griesman, Stevens Point, WI, is a cost accountant at Steel King in Stevens Point. Kyle G. Jensen, Minneapolis, works in marketing communications for United Healthcare Group at their Minnetonka office.
Tim and Anna (Mix) Lokensgard ’91 with Alyssa ’20
Daniel C. McDougall, Ames, IA, is working toward his doctorate in physics at Iowa State University. Ana K. Norell, Omaha, NE, graduated from Creighton University School of Medicine in May 2016 and will continue her family medicine training at La Crosse-Mayo in LaCrosse, WI. Liz Boening Parsons, River Falls, WI, is a kindergarten teacher at Saint Bridget Parish School. Logan Smestad, Hopkins, started a master’s degree at University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth in 2016. Megan Lundgren Weber, Maple Grove, is marketing coordinator at Kennedy Doors & Hardware.
12| 5-YEAR REUNION Save the Date June 2–4 2017
Josh Funk, Roseville, is an assistant hockey coach and teaches exercise science classes at St. Catherine University in St. Paul. Alyssa Ringdal Nissen, St. Paul, is a fourth-grade teacher at Jefferson Elementary School in New Ulm. Betsy Scherer, Chicago, IL, is a project accountant at Tranwestern in Chicago.
Mark ’89 and Julie Rae (Wagner) Peterson ’89 with Joshua ’20, siblings Jessica and Jordan and grandparents Elroy and Anita Wagner
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Paige N. Hoehn, Mankato, is the classified coordinator and recruitment specialist for the Mankato Free Press in Mankato.
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Hallee C. Adamsheck, Minnetonka, graduated this past spring with a master of genetic counselor studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Brogan K. Barr, Colorado Springs, CO, is an assistant coach of men’s and women’s swimming at Williams College in Williamstown, MA. Darcy A. Coulter, Shoreview, completed her master’s in journalism in May 2015 and a master’s in religion in May 2016. Ava K. Goepfert, Fort Collins, CO, is attending Colorado State University-Fort Collins for her master’s in communication studies and teaching public speaking.
Victor ’85 and Trudy Johnson with Adam ’20, Bailey, and Evan
Emilie E. Scott, Inver Grove Heights, is a third grade teacher at Kaposia Education Center in South St. Paul. The Kaposia Education Center is an authorized International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (PYP) IB World School. Erin N. Tollefson, Minneapolis, completed her master’s in education from University of St. Thomas and is teaching seventh grade science at Farmington Middle School in Farmington. Alecia K. Woods, Eagan, is working as a clinic nurse at Smiley’s Family Medicine Clinic in Minneapolis and will soon transition to RN Care Coordinator.
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Kayla N. Hutsell, Apple Valley, is an event operations coordinator for Aimia. Libby Larson, Wilmington, DE,
Marc ’89 and Katie (Welbaum) Iverson ’90 with Ingrid ’20
finished Lutheran Volunteer Corps and has been hired by Ministry of Caring as a grant writer. Samantha Nelson Thibert, Rochester, is a physical therapy technician at Mayo Clinic and is a physical therapy student at Mayo School of Health Sciences.
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Grace E. Clough, Burnsville, is a marketing intern for Mid-America Festivals in Bloomington. Amie F. Goblirsch, Madison, WI, is a graduate student and teaching assistant at UW-Madison. Anthony P. Massaro, Eagan, was accepted into the Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior program at University of Minnesota-Twin Cities as a student of Mike Wilson. He will be working with chimpanzees for his PhD. Derek R. Schmitz, St. Paul, is
a tax specialist for the Minnesota Department of Revenue. Margaret M. Schroeder, St. Paul, is a graduate assistant at Hennepin Technical College. Anthony C. Stordalen, Madison, WI, works in implementation services for Epic Systems Corporation.
WEDDINGS Gordon Thies ‘61 and Donna Brown, 06/01/15, Temecula, CA Linda Rye ‘71 and Lucette Bernard, 06/21/14, Atlanta, GA Rand Jensen ‘76 and Debbie Jensen, 04/02/16, Auburn, WA Craig Kozak '81 and Niki Moran, on 10/11/15, Fort Collins, CO. Robyn Mesenbring ‘96 and Nick Consoer, 08/30/15, Saint Paul Christian White ‘01 and Karly Mangen, 06/11/16, Bloomington Jake Sand ‘03 and Andrea
Darin ’92 and Beth (Robelia) Napton ’93 with Ella ’20
Lucarelli, 05/07/16, Phoenix, AZ Christie Rossow ‘05 and Bryan Aase, 07/02/16, Eagan Katrina Hesterman ‘05 and Travis Daul, 04/15/16, Maple Grove. Erika Hitchcock ’06 and Steve Ferraro, 9/20/14, Excelsior Andrea Nelson ‘06 and Scott Allyn, 04/17/15, Alexandria Hannah Johnson ‘06 and Derek Bartos, 05/30/15, Hugo Sarah Schueffner ‘06 and Kevin Borgendale ‘07, 02/23/15, Minneapolis Mike Phillips ‘06 and Taiana Hayes, 03/12/16, St. Michael Alli Stocco ‘06 and Nikolas Georgacarakos ‘06, 06/18/16, Portland, OR Lauren Matykowski ‘10 and Thomas Liska ‘10, 01/23/16, Minneapolis Susan Kramer ‘10 and Alex Wold, 08/13/16, Northfield
Do you have vintage Gustavus items? Donate your vintage Gustavus items now. We are looking for classic Gustie wear, will be auctioned next year at A Royal Affair on November 11, 2017 in the Twin Cities. Proceeds go to support the Gustavus library and scholarships for Gustavus students who are the first-generation to go to college. Contact Dana Lamb at 507-933-7550 or dlamb@gustavus.edu to donate your items now.
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
sports memorabilia, apparel, and other Gustavus items. They
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Dave ’82 and Cathy (Saunders) Schultz ’88 with Nick ’20
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Linda Evans ‘11 and Matthew Benson ‘12, 07/30/16, Fairbanks, AK Haley Carpenter ‘11 and Robert Bogdasarian, 05/01/16, Ashburnham, MA Nicole Tetrault ‘11 and Brian Christensen, 08/27/16, Forest Lake Sara Yungner ‘11 and Benjamin Ikeda ‘11, 05/14/16, Maple Grove Logan Smestad ‘11 and Danielle Bauer, 09/26/14, Hopkins Alex Flasch ‘12 and Megan Flasch, 08/20/16, Minneapolis Lauren Rothschiller ‘13 and Anthony Reed ‘10, 07/30/16, Eden Prairie Rebecca Hare ‘14 and Daniel Ly ‘15, 07/09/16, Bloomington Leif Bade ‘14 and Jennessa Runia ‘15, 07/16/16, Omaha, NE Terrece Oldenburg ‘15 and Chad Mesenbring, 09/02/16, Saint Paul Kallie Poirier ‘15 and Benjamin Orpen ‘14, 08/21/16, Ashby Anna Franke ‘16 and Karl Boettcher ‘11, 06/18/16, Savage Nathalee Boissiere ‘16 and Paul Morse ‘17, 08/06/16, Wayzata Shannon Graham ‘16 and Jared Stuebs ‘17, 08/21/16, Appleton, WI
BIRTHS Charlotte to Deb Winters Carlson ’96 and Edward Carlson, 09/01/15 Mathias to Marc A. Colin ’96
Lyanne (Grandstrand) Peterson ’93 with Carly ’20
and Amy H. Colin, 05/10/14 Reagan to Robyn Mesenbring Consoer ’96 and Nick Consoer, 08/30/15 Sephira to Kevin B. Dragseth ’96 and Toya H. Dragseth, 03/13/15 Rowan to Adam J. Johnson ’96, 8/30/15 Drew to Bryan D. Johnson ’96 and Jodi Tidlund Johnson, 12/14/15 Arya to Erin Walton Kerns ’96 and John P. Kerns ’96, 05/01/16 June to Jill Buhse Anderson ’97 and Todd R. Anderson, 01/22/16 Britta to Andy Kopperud ’01 and Krista Frederickson Kopperud, 03/23/15 Nora to Nicki Brausen Kamholz ’02 and Seth Kamholz, 05/05/16 Marika to Mik Gusenius ’03 and Heidi Sands Gusenius ’03, 05/04/15 Peter to Amanda Peterson Kolpin ’03 and Garrett M. Kolpin ’04, 02/01/16 Elsa to Teal Slivik Bassett ’06 and Eric Bassett, 01/07/14. Clara to Katie Parks Cochran ’06 and Erik Cochran, 12/01/15 Stanley to Rachel M. Crane ’06 and Michael Hill, 04/29/14 Emilia to Leslie Beaumont DeBoer ’06 and Jared DeBoer, 03/24/16 Caleb to Deanna Symington Eklo ’06 and Benjamin N. Eklo ’05, 05/01/15 Abel to Erin Foss Hernick ’06 and Matthew A. Hernick 06/22/14
Laurenbrook (Swanson) ’79 and Steve Ellingson ’79 with Owen ’20 and Emalise ’10
Simon to David C. Engelhard ’06 and Amy Miller Engelhard, 10/11/14 Scarlett to Erika Hitchcock Ferraro ’06 and Steve Ferraro, 05/10/16 Hendrix to Rachel Anderson Gruyah ’06 and Timothy Gruyah, 06/08/14 William to Allyson Sheldrew Hammer ’08 and Brad Hammer ’06, 11/03/14 Piper to Loren W. Havemeier ’06 and Meghan Havemeier, 12/24/14 Elizabeth to Matthew J. Hentges ’06 and Megan Brandt Hentges, 03/14/14 Samuel to Lauren Hittle Kraemer ’06 and John R. Kraemer ’06, 03/11/14 Walker to Pieper Brunsvold Lundell ’08 and Ben Lundell ’06, 05/22/15 Porter to Dena Pemble Mathison ’06 and Aaren Mathison, 10/30/14 Miles to Mary C. Meierbachtol ’06 and Adam S. Meierbachtol ’06, 01/29/14 Mollie to Briana Monson Miller ’06 and Josh Miller, 02/20/14 Aubrey to Anna Shallue Olson ’06 and Andrew Olson, 12/12/14 Amelia to Jillian Natwick Schmitz ’06 and Jeremy Schmitz, 12/11/14 Lincoln to Daniel M. Sellers ’06 and Stacy Sellers, 09/16/15 Seenia to Mhonpaj Lee ’06
and Phanat Vang ’06, 12/23/14 Everett to Dawn Gehlhar Williams ’06 and Philip S. Williams ’06, 09/03/15 Hali to Chandra Daw Ziegler ’06 and Erich W. Ziegler ’06, 09/17/14 Walter to Whitney C. Peterson ’08 and Rachel Peterson, 06/29/16 Josephine to Laura A. Luce ’09 and Elliot A. Peterson ’09, 08/15/93 Shepard to Sara Schnell Elenkiwich ’10 and Ross Elenkiwich ’10, 05/18/16 Connor to Claire Ruuhela ’10 and Matt Ruuhela James to Rebekah Jorgenson Cleary ’11 and Philip M. Cleary ’11, 01/27/15
IN MEMORIAM Helen Olson Tri ’37, Thief River Falls, on April 26, 2010. A former speech and English teacher, she was survived by a daughter. Paul Collins ’39, Brookings, SD, on September 30, 2012. A World War II veteran and former faculty at South Dakota State University, he is survived by two children. LorraineServheen Johanson ’40, Batavia, IL, on June 23, 2016. She is survived by four children including Anne (Ingold) ’73 and Christopher ’82. Alphild Johnson ’42, Benson,
Jeni (Lange) ’87 and Bill Belvedere ’86 with Rachel ’20
on May 24, 2012. She is survived by two nieces: Coleen Swanson ’72 and Catherine Jahde ’77. Dorothy Borsch Woodrich ’42, Chicago, IL on June 5, 2010. She is survived by nephews and nieces. Norma Carlson Berg ’47, Roseville, on July 20, 2016. She is survived by three children. Mariko Kitagawa ’47, Minneapolis, on March 26, 2014. Duane Glasow ’47, Roseville, on March 18, 2015. A veteran of the V12 Program, he is survived by his wife, Marion, and two children. Glen R. Johnson ’50, Pittsburgh, PA, on August 1, 2016. A former assistant secretary to the U. S. Treasury under President Lyndon Johnson, he had a long career as vice president of Federated Securities Corp. He is survived by his wife, LaVonne, and daughter, Vicki ’71. Ramona Lindall Arehart ’51, Eldorado Springs, CO, on July 14, 2016. She was a nurse at various facilities and is survived by her husband, Gene, and two children. Twylah Lundquist Benson ’52, Greenville, PA, on July 16, 2016. A former professor of sociology she is survived by two daughters and a sister, Yvonne (Johnanson ’49). Crystal Moritz RuckmarFreier ’52, St. Paul, on July 15, 2016. A long-time employee for CENEX, she is survived by six children and four stepchildren.
Jeanette Weaver Kroog ’53, St. Petersburg, FL, July 12, 2016. Wife and mother, she is survived by her husband, Fred, and three children. Joan K. Johnson ’54, Woodbury, on May 27, 2016. A former nurse, recruiter, and negotiator at St. Paul’s Miller Hospital (now United/Allina), she is survived many friends. Naomi Pilgrim Kind ’55, St. Peter, on July 25, 2016. A former nurse, she is survived by three children. Calvin Vaubel ’55, Edina, on June 4, 2016. Retired from the United States Treasury, he is survived by his wife, Janelle, and two children. Charles Pyle ’56, Long Lake, on July 14, 2016. Former president and director of Environmental Technologies, he is survived by his wife, Shirley, and three children. Donald E. Roberts ’56, See page 23. Alan Westberg ’56, Baxter, on June 9, 2016. A veteran, he taught history, math, computer science, and basketball. He is survived by his three daughters, including Susan (Loomer ’81), and a brother, Vernon ’60. Carol Lundberg Owen ’57, Eau Claire, WI, on May 20, 2016. A social worker and active volunteer, she is survived by three children.
Gene ’89 and Gretchen (Ellefson) Abegglen ’90 with Samuel ’20
Robert Shogren, ’58, Burnsville, on July 28, 2016. He was a senior staff engineer for Lockheed Martin and is survived by two children. Karen Hanson Shogren ’59, Burnsville, on July 9, 2016. She worked many years as a nursing instructor at the University of Minnesota. She was survived by her husband, Bob ’58, and two children. Karen Carlson Humphrey ’61, Springfield, MO, on July 26, 2016. She is survived by her husband, Gary, and two children. Terry Keating ’65, Fort Collins, CO, on July 19, 2016. A Navy veteran, he was also co-owner of a tire shop and is survived by his wife, Erleen, and two children.
Karis (Rieke) ’90 and Tim Gust ’91 with Tatiana ’20
MaryEllen Tordsen Kitundu ’65, Tanzania, on July 18, 2016. A nursing professor at Winona State University and president of International Health Partners, she was awarded a Distinguished Alumni Citation in 2015. She is survived by her three children, including Peter ’92 and Walter ’96. Richard Scherer ’68, Edina, on June 13, 2016. A Vietnam veteran and Vietnamese translator, he went on to practice law and was appointed as a district judge. He is survived by his wife, Nancy, two children, and two brothers, including John ’59. Diane Erickson Forbes ’69, Burnsville, on June 11, 2016. She was employed by Target
Corporation and is survived by her husband, Doug, and two children. Mary Sue Hanson Taylor ’69, Minneapolis, on July 19, 2016. A former teacher she is survived by her three children, including Holly ’93 and Michael ’96. Trudy A. Olson ’72, Shakopee, on April 1, 2016. A former Scott County human resources worker, she is survived by her partner, Greg. Barbara “Barbie” Stoksik ’72, North Hollywood, CA, on June 8, 2016. A former laboratory scientist, she is survived by her mother and two sisters. Deborah Hillar Kane ’77, Shoreview, on March 29, 2014. She was a high school French and Spanish teacher and is survived by
Tim ’80 and Julie (Johnson) Eiden ’82 with Dan ’20, Steve ’15, and Katherine ’12
her husband, Tim, two children, her mother, and two brothers. Karen Lantto Willcox ’78, Minnetonka, on May 31, 2016. A former paraprofessional at Minnetonka High School, she is survived by her husband, Mark ’76, two children, and her parents, Ernest ’52 and Louise (Granath ’49) Lantto. Lisa Hermann ’83, Evergreen, CO, on July 17, 2016. She is survived by her two sons and her father. Kristine Abrahamson ’87, Rivers Falls, WI, on February 13, 2015. A former psychologist, she is survived by her father and three sisters.
REMEMBERING JAMES “MOOSE” MALMQUIST ’53 James “Moose” Malmquist ’53, Saint Peter, on August 17. Malmquist was an exceptional student-athlete, receiving all-conference and all-state football honors, plus the College’s Langsjoen Medal (given to the senior athlete with the highest grade point average). He returned briefly to Gustavus to coach and teach, and returned again in 1974 as athletic director and chairman of the Department of Physical Education and Health. During his tenure, Gusties won 82 conference championships and 13 national championships, and the Lund Center for Health, Physical Education and Recreation was built (under his direction). The College’s athletic department grew from 11 varsity athletic programs to 23. Moose was at the forefront of the growth of women’s intercollegiate sports, and served as president of the NAIA Athletic Directors Association (1982–83), as well as chair of the NCAA Division III Football Committee (1993–94). He retired in 1997. He is survived by his four children: Mike ’77, Casey ’79, Lauri, and David ’83.
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Jon ’82 and Dawn (Abraham) Erickson ’82 with Luke ’20
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1. Eight Gustie grads went on a seven-day, 91.6 mile hike through the Grand Teton National Park in August. Here they are at 10,700 feet on the Paintbrush Divide. L to r: Josh (non-Gustie), Ryan Dobbs ’09, Scott Broady ’09, Eric Kunkel ’12, Peter Rakke ’13, Kevin Bonnema ’13, David Johnson ’12, Brandon Hirdler ’12, and Blake Gust ’13.
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2. Father and sons traveled to Sweden recently to run the Stockholm marathon. L to r: Stephan Quie ’16, Joel Quie ’78, and Johan Quie. They are sporting “the shirt” that Stephan designed as a student 3. The Gustie flag flies behind alums on Pelican Lake in August. L to r: Kyle Rohlfs ’08, Tasha Carlson Rohlfs ’09, Jack Underwood 08, Wade Underwood ’12, and Claire Curran ’13.
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4. Girls from Gustavus class of 1999 gathered for an annual cabin weekend in St. James. We stopped at the BookMark on the way down and found these great shirts on sale! Back row (l to r): Sara Leadholm Retka, Kristin Miller Prestegaard, Jill Peterson Johnson, Bobbi Miest Baumann, Megan Halvorsen Peterson, Brita Johnson Schemmel, Greta Wallgren, Andrea Schmidt Crane. Front row (l to r): Diana Gedde Chauvin, Shari Haaland Gibson, and non-Gustie Amanda Maul. 5. During a recent, long-awaited trip to Ireland Nathan ’04 and Brianna Borka ’06 met up with Dana Rabe ’09 who is currently in Galway working on a masters in creative process.
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6. Yes, these are three sets of identical twins, all from a Gustie family! From left: Julie Bexell Sieben ’01 and Todd Sieben, with twins Greta and Violet. Wendy Bexell Sweeney ’93 and Shannon Sweeney ’92 with Danny and Reese. Barbie Bexell Erickson ’06 and Paul Erickson ’04 with Ben and Reed. In front are proud Gustie parents/grandparents Donna Davies Bexell ’67 and Joel Bexell ’68. 7. Guys from the Gustavus class of ’89 gathered at Mike Brown’s cabin on an island in the middle of nowhere, Canada. L to r: Keith Jackson, Mike Dueber, Mike Brown, and Adam Juntunen.
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8. Jean (Monson) Foreman X59 and Marie (Munson) Rutter ’59 together with their husbands, John Foreman and Nat Rutter, travelled 9,288 kilometres on the TransSiberian Railroad. The former roommates reveled in every minute of the 21-day, multistop journey from Moscow to Vladivostok. 9. Enthusiastic Gusties attended the Seattle Mariners vs. St. Louis Cardinals in June. Front row (l to r): Mark Merz, Kari Petrasek Merz ’99, Eric Radovich, Kristina Nordstrom ’93, Sarah McQuade ’03, Gary Braun ’81. Back row (l to r): Erin Schadt ’99, Karrin Daniels ’00, Kathryn McElrath, Ashley Holck, Kaitlyn McElrath ’14. 10. Past, present and future Gusties celebrating the high school graduation of first-year Lydia Brekke ’20. L to r: Alec Overland ’18, Susan (Sidla) Overland x’84, Tryg Overland ’85, Nate Bergengren ’03, Lydia Brekke ’20, Chad Brekke ’85, Tony Porthan ’90, Janae (Brekke) Porthan ’91.
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11. This year at the Mother’s Day brunch at First Lutheran Church in Redlands, CA, Briana Hewitt ’09 randomly sat next to Beverly Chovick ’50 who has been a member of the church for nearly 30 years. Over muffins and egg bake, they swapped stories about life on the hill and became new friends. 12. Gusties and friends in front of the Nobel Museum in Stockholm, Sweden. Dick and Nancy Rademacher, Jim Krough ’61, Jim Donicht ’60, Ann Donicht, and Patti Maedl Krough ’61. The Rademachers are parents of Janie Rademacher Warner ’85 and grandparents of Sam ’16 and Emily ’18. The Kroughs are parents of Todd ’85 and grandparents of Jacob Brown ’08.
13. Alumni basketball players returned to campus in early May for the Annual Tom Brown Classic Basketball Tournament. Team play consisted of round-robin match-ups and playoffs. Front, l to r: Bob Southworth ’99, Gary Cooper ’16, Head Coach Mark Hanson ’83, Seth Anderson ’12, Assistant Coach Justin DeGrood ’07. Middle, l to r: Mark McDonnell ’99, Dan Schmidtknecht ’11, Peder Beckstrand ’12, Reed Sallstrom ’12, Chris Narum ’16, Jesse Van Sickle ’10, Hans Sviggum ’03, Chris TeBrake ’04, Chad Poppen ’16, Trent Hollerich ’06, Adam TeBrake ’06. Back, l to r: James Hill ’13, Marc Newell ’99, Blake Shay ’13, Bobby Johnson ’12, Adam Michel ’12, Sergio Najera ’16, Mitch Horner ’16, Mychal Crowder ’10, Matt Meyer ’16, Brody Ziegler ’16, Trevor Wittwer ’08, Paul Blacklock ’12, David Newell ’03, Doug Espenson ’05, Phil Sowden ’07, Jeff Owen ’92.
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Vespers I learned how to treat others with respect on and off the court. Throughout my career I've carried with me the lesson of focusing on what I can control—attitude, effort, and sportsmanship—and it has made me a better player and person.” — retired pro tennis player Eric Butorac ’03, on what he learned from Tennis & Life Camps and TLC founder (and his Gustavus coach) Steve Wilkinson
This year, Booty (as he is known) wrapped a decade-long legacy of tennis exceptionalism, including the doubles finals at the Australian Open in 2014. This year marks another Gustavus legacy of tennis exceptionalism: four decades of Tennis and Life Camp. Forty years of TLC and the mission remains the same: Developing superior tennis skills and an enriched approach to life. It is fitting that in this year of Gustie sports anniversaries (see page 22), the Hillstrom Museum of Art features an exhibit that merges sport
GUSTAVUS QUARTERLY | WINTER 2016
and art: Action! The Anatomy of LeRoy Neiman’s Champions. (See page 6 for more). The 40-Love celebration continues (tennisandlifecamps.org). And Booty has a new role as USTA’s Director of Professional Tennis Operations and Player Relations. An enriched approach to life, indeed.
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LeRoy Neiman, Stefan Edberg (detail), 1990, acrylic and enamel on board, 12 x 8 inches On display at the Hillstrom Museum of Art until January 27.
For Alumni, Parents, and Friends WINTER 2016 | VOL. LXXIII | ISSUE 1 STA F F Chair, Board of Trustees The Rev. Dan S. Poffenberger ’82
YOUR GIFT to the Gustavus Fund Supports the ENTIRE STUDENT Experience.
President of the College Rebecca Bergman Vice President, Marketing and Communication Tim Kennedy ’82 Vice President, Advancement Thomas Young ’88 Director, Alumni and Parent Engagement Glen Lloyd Managing Editor Stephanie Wilbur Ash | sash@gustavus.edu Visual Editor, Production Coordinator Anna Deike | adeike@gustavus.edu
43% Scholarships and Financial Aid
Design Sharon Stevenson | stevenson.creative@me.com Contributing Writers JJ Akin ’11, Tim Kennedy ’82, CJ Siewert ’11, Laura Isdahl ’17 Contributing Photographers and Artists Terry Clark Photography, Harvard University, Honor the Earth, Gisel Murillo ’17, Steve Neidorf, Randall Nelson, John Noltner, Becca Sabot, Wayne Schmidt, CJ Siewert ’11, SPX Sports, Vanderbilt University, Gustavus Adolphus College Archives
34% Research opportunities, state-of-the-art technology, renowned faculty, and more.
Printer John Roberts Company | johnroberts.com Postmaster Send address changes to the Gustavus Quarterly, Office of Alumni and Parent Engagement, Gustavus Adolphus College, 800 W. College Ave., Saint Peter, MN 56082-1498 GUSTAVUS ADOLPHUS COLLEGE Saint Peter, MN 56082 507-933-8000 | gustavus.edu
13% Student Services: Academic Advising, Career Center, Chaplains’ Office, Student Organizations, and more.
Articles and opinions presented in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors or official policies of the College or its Board of Trustees. The Gustavus Quarterly (USPS 227-580) is published four times annually, in February, May, August, and November, by Gustavus Adolphus College, Saint Peter, Minn. Periodicals postage is paid at Saint Peter, MN 56082, and additional mailing offices. It is mailed free of charge to alumni and friends of the College. Circulation is approximately 42,800.
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Stephanie Coe ’20 during her daily practice as a competitive figure skater. The College’s on-campus rink is one of the reasons she chose Gustavus. She’s one of five great firstyears profiled in this issue.
10% Institutional Support: Hillstrom Museum of Art, the Nobel Conference®, campus operations, and more.
Gustavus Adolphus College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE TODAY. gustavus.edu/give Office of Advancement
| giftplanning@gustavus.edu | 507-933-6043
WINTER 2016 800 WEST COLLEGE AVENUE ST. PETER, MINNESOTA 56082
WE WILL
“The Gustavus Acts Strategic Plan grew from within, and it will live through our gifts, values, passions, and communities.” —President Rebecca Bergman SEE PAGE 12
You can get halal chicken in the Caf every Tuesday, in a variety of dishes, all unofficially known as “Khan’s Chicken,” after Muhammed Ahmen Khan ’18, an international business/ political science major and peace studies minor who taught recipes to Caf staff last year. “Halal” refers to meat butchered according to Muslim edict, which includes saying a prayer. Says Khan, “The meat is a life, and serving halal chicken is a way to teach people to be respectful about food.” Much respect goes out to his mom in Pakistan, too: “All the dishes I learned from her.”
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75 YEARS OF ST. LUCIA It begins in darkness. It continues with hope.
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THE NEXT FOUR YEARS With five fresh first-year students.
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CLASS NOTES What your fellow Gusties are up to.