LORAS
Loras, as a Catholic liberal arts college, creates a community of active learners, reflective thinkers, ethical decision-makers, and responsible contributors in diverse professional, social, and religious roles. Inspired by the Catholic intellectual tradition and rooted in the transformative power of learning, Loras enriches lives and serves humanity.
Editorial Office
1450 Alta Vista Street, Dubuque, IA 52001 |
563.588.7235
marketing@loras.edu
LEADERSHIP
James E. Collins ('84)
President
Michael H. Doyle J.D. ('91)
President-Elect
Donna Heald, PhD
Provost and Academic Dean
Joshua Boots ('04, MBA '19)
Vice President for Institutional Advancement
Maria Gentile, MBA
Vice President for Enrollment Management
Demeri C. Mullikin
Vice President for Marketing and Strategic Communication
Arthur W. Sunleaf, EdD
Vice President for Student Development, Dean of Students
Margaret Tungseth, MBA, CPA
Vice President & Chief Operations Officer
MANAGING EDIT OR
Demeri C. Mullikin
PHOTOGRAPHY
Andrea Cannon
Owen Funke ('22)
Sgt. Matthew Fredricks
Jeremy Vallin ('18)
DESIGN
Jill O'Neill
CONTRIBUTORS
Laurie Bushman (MA ’18)
Dani (Gaydusek) Dodds ('06) MS
Rachel Moser ('17)
Lexi L. Schroeder
President’s Letter
Dear Loras Alumni and Friends,
In recent months, I announced my plans to retire from my cherished and honored role as Loras president on May 31, 2025. Your response, that of our campus community, and from many others was truly humbling. I will be forever grateful to this special place and its incredible people.
On July 23, 2024, it was with relief and excitement, as cited unanimously by our campus community, that such a worthy, capable, and passionate successor was named as Loras’ next president in Mike Doyle (’91). Mike and I have been friends since his student days. We had the opportunity to work together for fifteen years at Loras as he demonstrated incredibly strong leadership in leading our Advancement and Finance areas, respectively. He knows and loves Loras and is committed to Loras’ growth amidst a challenging higher education landscape. He is well-credentialed and brings boundless energy to the position in partnership with his wonderful spouse, Martha.
At our Opening Day for all faculty and staff this academic year, I offered a campus update and remarks regarding our future. I noted that this was indeed a year of transition amid very challenging times. As much as Mike and I love and are passionate about our alma mater, we bring different styles and skill sets to the position. This is good for Loras given my longstanding tenure. That said, I reminded the community that while there is a change in leadership, Loras’ institutional identity and commitments will remain unchanged.
The campus community spent the morning hearing from select colleagues about how the Loras Vision, Mission, Values, Catholic Identity statement, our Loras Community for All statement, Leadership Framework, and Vocation work are incorporated into their daily work. It was an amazing conversation that further solidified our commitment to one another and our college.
To further acknowledge our leadership transition, and underscore our deep commitment to institutional values, I am pleased that this edition of the Loras Magazine highlights Loras’ longstanding commitment to its Catholic values and service. We collected stories about alumni from all generations who live their lives while embracing their faith and demonstrating service to others by answering Christ’s Gospel message. It's impossible to honor all of you who have lived the Loras mission, Christ’s Gospel message, and the powerful combination of faith & reason. As such, we invite you to share your story or that of another alum/friend. We plan to feature these stories more often via all our media outlets.
Pro Deo et Patria!
Welcome President-Elect
Michael (Mike) Doyle, J.D. ('91)
Loras College is proud to announce Mike Doyle, as its president-elect. Mike returned to campus this August, and is working alongside President Collins until assuming the presidency on June 1, 2025.
A magna cum laude
Loras graduate, Mike brings extensive experience in higher education leadership, finance, and advancement. From 2007 to 2021, he served Loras in various roles, most recently as vice president for advancement and treasurer (CFO). Mike led the record-breaking "Inspiring Lives & Leadership" campaign, the largest in the college's history.
Prior to returning to Loras, Mike was president of Steele Capital Management, further developing his leadership and financial management skills. His diverse background, including a Marquette University law degree, uniquely qualifies him to guide Loras into the future.
Mike expresses deep honor at being chosen and an unwavering commitment to Loras' Catholic mission and intellectual tradition. He looks forward to reconnecting with the Loras community and sharing his vision for the future.
Faculty Notes
NEW RELEASES
Students as Historians, Using Technology to Examine Local History Beyond the Classroom
Scott Scheuerell ('95), Professor of Education Scheuerell makes a case for using technology to further the research of local history. Part 1 of the book explores the history of Black people in communities across the nation while Part 2 uses census reports, Google Earth, and other materials to investigate. Part 3 involves design-based research in a social studies classroom where students investigated the history of Mobile, Alabama during the Civil Rights movement using technology.
The Illegible Man, Disability and Masculinity in Twentieth-Century America
Will Kanyusik, Associate Professor of English Kanyusik examines depictions of disability in American film and literature in twentieth-century postwar contexts, beginning with the first World War and continuing through America's war in Vietnam. Supported by original archival research, The Illegible Man presents a new understanding of disability, masculinity, and war in American culture.
LORAS HOSTS VOCATION CONFERENCE
This September, Loras College hosted the Council of Independent Colleges Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education (NetVUE) conference.
This event served as the launch of this year’s NetVUE Big Read during which leaders on college campuses across the country will read together the newest volume from the NetVUE Scholarly Resources Project: Called Beyond Our Selves: Vocation and the Common Good (Oxford, 2024), edited by Dr. Erin VanLaningham, Loras College Professor of English.
WELCOME NEW FACULTY
Michael Bagby, Assistant Professor of Music
Talita Carmo Assistant Professor of Biology
Yachen Cui, Assistant Professor of Finance
Andrew Encinas, Visiting Assistant Professor of Biochemistry
Allison Kempen, Assistant Professor of Chemistry
Jessica Kirby, Assistant Professor of Athletic Training
Aryn Kruse, Assistant Professor of Teacher Education
Christina Lee, Assistant Professor of Public Heath
Tama-Lea Lorenzen Assistant Professor of Marketing
Nimish Mathure, Assistant Professor of Computer Engineering
Molly Menster ('98) Academic Success & Retention Coordinator
Sabrina Schultz-McClain Director, Lynch Disability & Cultural Resource Center
James E. Collins (’84) President
Alexandria (Settanni) Steepleton ('15), Assistant Professor of Teacher Education
Spreading Joy 'Little by Little'
Fr. Angelus Montgomery ('07), a Franciscan Friar of the Renewal in New York, is using his Loras College education in an unexpected way. As one of the hosts of the Poco a Poco video podcast, he's reaching thousands with a message of practical spirituality and encouragement.
The podcast, which began during the pandemic, was initially conceived to provide spiritual formation during challenging times. "It ended up blessing many people, so we kept it going!" Fr. Angelus explains. The show's success led to a partnership with Spirit Juice Studios, allowing for highquality, free Catholic content online.
Poco a Poco ("little by little" in Spanish) aims to offer listeners a source of rest, encouragement, and renewal. Fr. Angelus and his fellow friars break down the Gospel, drawing from their experiences in prayer, communal life, and work with the poor. "In a world where things can be complicated, the joy of the Gospel is attractive!" he says.
Balancing his responsibilities as the community's vocation director with podcast production has been manageable thanks to a team approach. Fr. Angelus records multiple episodes once a month with other
friars, including his triplet brother. This efficient schedule allows for a significant impact with minimal time demands.
Listener feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. "They enjoy the gift of being invited into our Franciscan brotherhood—the joy, humor, and playfulness," Fr. Angelus shares. "They also find our simple and practical approach to being a disciple of Jesus fruitful."
Fr. Angelus credits his Loras College experience with preparing him for this unexpected ministry. As a public relations major, he once dreamed of becoming the White House press secretary. While joining the Franciscan order meant sacrificing some career aspirations, Fr. Angelus is grateful for the opportunity to use his education and gifts in service of his faith.
"I am super grateful to the Lord for giving me this opportunity to use my gifts and my experience at Loras to further His Kingdom," he reflects. Through Poco a Poco Fr. Angelus continues to communicate important messages—just to a different audience than he once imagined.
▶ spiritjuice.org/pocoapoco
A Journey of Faith and Service in the Bronx
Josie Edel ('23) embodies the Loras spirit of service and faith in action. After graduating with majors in Spanish, politics, and religious studies, Josie embarked on a transformative journey as a Seton Teaching Fellow in the South Bronx. Now a full-time firstgrade teacher at Brilla Public Charter Schools, Josie reflects on how her Loras experience shaped her path.
"Loras taught me to love the Catholic faith and desire to share it with others," Josie explains. Her time at the college deepened both her personal relationship with Jesus and her intellectual understanding of Catholicism—skills she leveraged while teaching catechism to kindergartners in New York.
Josie credits Loras for instilling a service-oriented worldview that led her to the Seton Teaching Fellows program. "Loras helped me realize that my life is not about me. A good life is one shared with and lived for others," she says.
The fellowship challenged Josie to put love at the forefront of her teaching approach. "I had no idea how to be a good teacher, but I knew how to love, so that's what I focused on," she recalls. This emphasis on building relationships with students and families yielded unexpected rewards. "I never knew I was capable of so much love," Josie shares, "but I soon fell in love with my students and the community of Mott Haven."
While Josie initially viewed the fellowship as a one-year commitment, she discovered an unexpected passion for education. "Teaching gives you such a unique and irreplaceable role in the life of a child," she explains. "I take a lot of joy in helping to form my students, both academically and humanely."
From Loras to the Land
Mary Kay McDermott, a 2003 Loras elementary education graduate, forged an unexpected path since her college days. Following graduation, she has been living out a vision for faith-based sustainability in a community inspired by Catholic social activists Dorothy Day and Peter Maurin. While her journey led her to various Catholic Worker ventures—two houses of hospitality, a cafe, and two farms— currently, she lives at Saint Isidore Catholic Worker Farm, an intentional community she co-founded in 2016.
Life at St. Isidore Farm loosely follows the Benedictine tradition of 'Ora et Labora'—prayer and work. Days begin with communal prayer, followed by tasks that fulfill the communities’ mission, integrating sustainable agriculture, simple living, hospitality, and educational workshops.
The community takes Pope Francis' call for "ecological conversion" to heart, with the belief that we need to take personal responsibility for our contributions to the environmental crisis and act in ways that nurture and renew our common home.
McDermott credits Loras for planting the seeds of her journey. "My studies taught me that my Catholic faith is more than just an obligation to fulfill, it is a life to live," she reflects. The College's spiritual life service program provided concrete examples of faith in action, inspiring her future path.
For current Loras students interested in similar paths, McDermott advises: "First, go on a Loras-led service trip." She also encourages new graduates to consider volunteering with organizations like the Catholic Worker or Jesuit Volunteer Corps.
Mary Kay McDermott with her family ▶
◀ Josie Edel, second from right
▲ Fr. Angelus in the podcast studio
From Loras to the
Airwaves
Jon Leonetti, a 2007 Loras graduate, has become a prominent voice in Catholic media, authoring several books and hosting The Jon Leonetti Show on Iowa Catholic Radio. His journey from philosophy major to Catholic speaker and evangelist is a testament to the enduring impact of a Loras education and the power of following one's calling.
Leonetti's path to becoming a Catholic speaker and evangelist began in high school. "As I neared the end of high school, I felt an increasing call to speak about Our Lord," he recalls. This calling led him to Loras College's seminary program, where he spent what he describes as, "some of the best years of my life discerning God's plan for me."
Although Leonetti ultimately realized that the priesthood wasn't his vocation, his time at Loras was instrumental in shaping his future. "I came to understand the Lord was still inviting me to share his message as a married man," he explains.
For the past fifteen years, Leonetti has been a fixture on Iowa Catholic Radio, eventually taking over as host of the morning show. "It has truly been the time of my life," he says. His tenure as a radio host will culminate in October 2024, when he transitions to hosting a long-form podcast in partnership with the station.
For Leonetti, the most memorable moments of his career are often the quietest ones. "None are as meaningful as the brief email, or the two-minute conversation at the back of a Church,
where someone tells me that I made them think, inspired them to go back to Mass or reconciliation, or helped them begin the process of forgiving someone in their life," he shares.
Drawing from his own experience, Leonetti offers valuable advice to current Loras students discerning their vocations: "Spend time alone with God and ask Him what He wants for your life. There is no greater joy than following God's call."
Kevin O'Brien, a 2011 Loras College graduate from Davenport, Iowa, is making a significant impact in New York City as an advocate for asylum seekers. For the past fifteen months, O'Brien has been working with an organization partnering with New York City to assist with refugee resettlement and support.
"It's really about being there for people with very real needs," O'Brien explains.
"We're helping them connect with resources so they can gain independence and pursue their hopes and dreams in their new home."
▲ Kevin O’Brien speaks with an Afghan guest about his home state during an event at Joint Base McGuire-DixLakehurst, New Jersey, Jan. 7, 2022
O'Brien's path was shaped by his Loras experience. As a triple major in international studies, Spanish, and politics, he credits the college's liberal arts curriculum and emphasis on service for broadening his perspective on global issues and community engagement.
After Loras, O'Brien joined the Peace Corps in Mozambique, further fueling his passion for refugee resettlement. He later pursued a master's degree in social work to enhance his ability to make a difference. Now living in the East Village, O'Brien finds inspiration in the resilience of those he assists. "Every day, I'm reminded of how we're all part of one larger community," he says. "It's about knocking down boundaries and helping anyone who needs a hand." As a member of the National Alumni Board, O'Brien continues to give back to Loras while making a significant impact in New York. His journey exemplifies the Loras College motto: "Pro Deo et Patria" (For God and Country), to which he would add "et Gentibus" (and World). O'Brien's work demonstrates how a small liberal arts college in Iowa can produce graduates who make a big impact on the world stage.
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Jon Leonetti's Journey of Faith and Evangelization
▼ Jon Leonetti speaking during a parish mission
with ReSpectacle
Dr. Jeffrey Lynch ('01) has transformed a simple idea into a global mission. His non-profit, ReSpectacle, is revolutionizing eyeglass recycling and bringing clear vision to thousands worldwide.
The spark ignited in 2006 when Jeff, then a medical student, participated in a South American mission trip. Observing the inefficiencies in traditional eyeglass recycling, he envisioned a more effective system. "There were hundreds of people who could benefit from glasses, and thousands of donated glasses, but no easy way to search for good matches," Jeff recalls.
This experience led to the founding of ReSpectacle in 2011. The organization’s use of technology sets it apart. The ReSpectacle database and prescription-matching system allow for precise recycling, reducing waste and increasing efficiency. "We only ship glasses that are ordered, we don't need to send thousands of eyeglasses to find a few matches," Jeff explains.
The unique algorithm to match donated glasses with recipients based on their prescriptions has caught the attention of mission groups and eye care professionals working with underserved populations both domestically and internationally.
ReSpectacle has recycled eyeglasses for over 50,000 recipients across all fifty states and thirty-seven countries. The impact extends beyond numbers, improving quality of life and advancing education and productivity for many.
Dr. Alyssa (Beckmann) Lynch (’01) who met Jeff during their freshman year at Loras, brings her unique perspective as a fellow medical professional. While not directly involved in ReSpectacle's daily operations, her understanding of healthcare inequities and support have contributed to the organization's success. As a community obstetrician/gynecologist, Alyssa's direct experience with challenges faced by underserved populations in her own specialty has deepened her appreciation for ReSpectacle's mission and why it’s so crucial.
As ReSpectacle grows, the Lynches remain committed to their mission. Jeff, now a pediatric ophthalmologist, finds joy in his work both in his practice and through ReSpectacle. "Putting prescription glasses on a child's face for the first time, and watching their world open up in new ways, will never get old," he shares.
For Jeff and Alyssa, their Loras education was just the beginning of a journey that has touched tens of thousands of lives. Through ReSpectacle—they're recycling hope, one pair at a time.
▶ To learn more about ReSpectacle or to get involved, visit respectacle.org
Seeing Clearly & Changing Lives Reagan Friend Pioneers Cancer Survivorship Program
Reagan Friend (’19) has turned her passion for health and wellness into a groundbreaking career in cancer rehabilitation. As the driving force behind the Volv Survivorship program, Friend is making her mark in the field of cancer care, drawing inspiration from her experiences at Loras and her personal connection to the cause.
Friend's journey began during her senior year at Loras when she discovered her calling through the college's CARES Lab, run by director and associate professor of kinesiology and biology Dr. Keith Thraen-Borowski. "After speaking with one of my advisors and a stand out professor at Loras, Dr. T, I was fascinated and captured by the work he was doing with cancer survivors," Friend recalls. This experience led her to pursue a masters in cancer care at Saint Francis University.
The Volv Survivorship program, co-created by Friend and her boss, Volv owner, and founder of the Crocus Foundation, Kim David, offers a unique approach to cancer rehabilitation.
"We are not only focused on your physical health, but also your emotional and cognitive health," Friend explains. The program incorporates innovative elements like chair yoga, Qigong, and circuit classes, setting it apart from traditional rehabilitation programs.
Friend's dedication to this field is deeply personal. Her grandfather's battle with cancer on three separate occasions left a lasting impact. "All I wanted to do was help cancer survivors improve how they moved, felt, and thought after enduring such a challenging disease," she shares.
Drawing on her background in psychology, Friend emphasizes the importance of addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of cancer survivorship. "Taking time to understand each of my patients and the specific challenges they face… is one of my greatest assets to a successful exercise program," she says.
Friend's advice to current Loras students reflects her own journey: "Even if you don't know what your future holds, keep searching for something that ignites your passion. It may not be what you were expecting, but hold out for the career and life path that makes you happy."
The Lynch family on vacation in Yellowstone National Park ▶
▲ Reagan Friend (’19)
▲ Dr. Jeffrey Lynch (’01)
Spiritual Growth in the Lay Cistercian Community
In the rolling hills of northeastern Iowa, a group of Loras College alumni have found a unique path to deepen their faith and enrich their spiritual lives. These graduates, spanning decades, have become part of the Associates of Iowa Cistercians (AIC), a lay community associated with the New Melleray Abbey and Our Lady of the Mississippi Abbey near Dubuque.
The AIC offers lay people an opportunity to integrate Cistercian spirituality into their daily lives. The group meets monthly for a day of spiritual renewal of prayer, learning, and community.
For these Loras alumni, it's a journey that both challenges and nurtures their faith, building on the foundation laid during their college years.
Rick Brown's (MM ’00) journey to the AIC began early. "I had been doing private retreats at the Monastic Center at New Melleray for several years and was invited to the first meeting in January of 1995 of what would become the Associates of the Iowa Cistercians," Brown explains. "I was hooked and still am."
Linda Frommelt (MA ’08) was inspired by a longtime member whose life exemplified the Cistercian practice. "I could see how this Cistercian practice and tradition played a huge part in deepening her faith life and the way she lived,"
Frommelt says. "I wanted to grow stronger in my faith!"
After retiring from Loras, Professor Dan Willis (’19) returned as a student, earning a degree in English creative writing. His journey to the AIC was inspired by his interest in Christian mystics. "I felt that participation in AIC would help me to deepen my daily practices of prayer and meditation," he explains.
A key aspect of Cistercian spirituality is following the Rule of St. Benedict in daily life. For these alumni, it's an ongoing process of spiritual transformation. Mike Dodds (’03) focuses on humility: "I have an ego problem. Humility reminds me to let go of my ego and remember my whole desire should be centered on what God calls of me."
For these Loras graduates, their college experience laid the groundwork for a lifetime of spiritual growth. David A. Vanderah ('66) sees it as a "lifelong journey of spiritual transformation," taking it "one step at a time, one place at a time."
As Randy Wakitsch (’85) aptly puts it, "Faith was not just to be expressed in Christ the King Chapel but also in the dorm rooms, the classrooms, and back home with our families. That's what the Associates of Iowa Cistercians are doing and I'm glad to be part of the process."
First Class of Nursing Students Loras & Mercy
In May, Loras College and Mercy College of Health Sciences partnered to allow students to pursue Mercy’s nursing program on the Loras College campus. The program offers students a unique opportunity to complete their first three years at Loras before transitioning to nursing coursework. The program’s structure ensures that students can remain on the Loras campus throughout their studies, with labs conducted on-site and many clinical experiences available at nearby MercyOne Dubuque.
The partnership between these two esteemed Catholic institutions aims to create well-rounded healthcare
Resiliency
professionals equipped with both a liberal arts foundation and specialized nursing skills. This initiative results in students earning two degrees in just four years: a bachelor’s degree (BA or BS) from Loras College and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Mercy College. As healthcare facilities continue to face staffing shortages, graduates of this program will be uniquely positioned to fill critical roles in hospitals and clinics across Iowa and beyond.
▶loras.edu/nursing
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A Journey from Dream Job to Unexpected Advocacy
By Laurie Bushman (MA ’18)
In September 2018, I secured my dream job as a school-based therapist after passing my licensure exam for the Master of Arts in School Counseling. However, just two weeks later, my world changed dramatically when I had a seizure.
Following a risky brain tumor resection, I faced significant speech and mobility challenges. My recovery journey forced me to confront a difficult truth: our jobs don't define us. Instead of a traditional career, I now focus on self-care, family, and medical check-ups.
Seeking control, I discovered the Race for Research benefiting the University of
◀ Laurie Bushman
Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center. I began baking to raise funds, and over the years, I've become the all-time highest fundraiser, raising over $27,000 and baking more than 19,500 cookies. Now, I'm a part-time fundraiser for Carbone Cancer Center and a volunteer baker for Resources Unite. This unexpected detour has taught me resilience, the power of community, and the importance of redefining one's purpose in the face of adversity. Life rarely follows a direct path, and often it's the winding roads that offer enlightenment and discovery of purpose.
▶ Read full story at: loras.edu/news/redefining-purpose
▲ L to R: Rick Brown, Linda Frommelt, David A. Vanderah, Randy Wakitsch, Dan Willis, Mike Dodds
2024 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARDS
OLIVIA YOUNG ('12)
Young's journey exemplifies how Loras shapes socially conscious leaders. She spent three years in Quito, Ecuador, teaching and supporting underprivileged communities at the Centro del Muchacho Trabajador. Her professional path led her to significant roles in non-profit organizations, including raising over $1 million as development director at The Center for Working Families (C4WF).
Now as community director at C4WF, Young continues to make an impact by managing volunteer recruitment, service learning, and fundraising efforts. Her dedication to empowering marginalized communities and living her faith through action reflects the values instilled during her time at Loras, making her an outstanding representative of the college's mission.
PETER MOLLOY ('84)
ANDY AUGE ('78)
After graduating in 1978, Auge returned to Loras as an English professor in 1987, dedicating thirty-five years to shaping students' lives. His contributions extend beyond the classroom, including developing the Irish studies major and establishing the Ireland study abroad program. Auge played a crucial role in creating key courses and programs, such as the Democracy and Global Diversity course and the Honors Program. His leadership in various committees and task forces helped shape the college's academic direction. Auge's teaching excellence was recognized with multiple awards, including the Fr. Naumann Award and Cardinal Newman Award. His ability to connect with students of all academic levels and his dedication to Loras' mission made him a beloved figure on campus.
HALFWAY TO OUR GOAL!
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our alumni and friends, Loras has reached a significant milestone in passing $60 million for our Enduring Values / Vibrant Vision campaign.
RICHARD KUNNERT ('58)
The remaining $68 million will be crucial in securing Loras' future and continuing our tradition of faith and excellence. We invite you to join us in this endeavor. Together, we can ensure that the promise of a Loras education endures for generations to come.
Joshua D. Boots (’04, MA ’19) Vice President for Institutional Advancement 563.588.7935 loras.edu/campaign
This campaign is our bold response to the challenges facing higher education today. Your support is enabling us to strengthen our academic programs, enhance our facilities, and most importantly, ensure that a Loras education remains accessible to deserving students.
FIVE INDIVIDUALS AND ONE TEAM were recognized during Homecoming as part of the Class of 2024.
A successful businessman, Molloy co-founded and leads Jobsite Supply and Jobsite Formwork. However, it's his extraordinary dedication to service that truly sets him apart. Inspired by their daughter Anna, who had a rare genetic disorder, Molloy and his wife Julie founded Anna's Celebration of Life, a foundation supporting children with special needs. They further expanded their mission by opening Anna's House, a food pantry and community center in Indianapolis. These initiatives provide crucial support to marginalized families through food assistance, community programs, and various aid projects. Molloy's ability to transform personal tragedy into a force for good, coupled with his business acumen and unwavering commitment to helping others, embodies the values Loras seeks to instill in its graduates.
JAMES HAYES ('60)
Hayes built an outstanding career in law and public service, with a distinguished legal career spanning over five decades having served in the Iowa Governor's administration, overseeing crucial state departments. As a trial lawyer, he specialized in medical malpractice cases and became a partner at prominent law firms.
Hayes' professional excellence is evident in his fellowships with the American College of Trial Lawyers and Iowa Academy of Trial Lawyers, where he held leadership positions. His expertise in medical jurisprudence led to guest lectures at the University of Iowa. Beyond his legal practice, Hayes demonstrated a commitment to community service through involvement with various boards and foundations. His career embodies the values instilled by Loras College, consistently striving to uphold justice and support those in need.
Kunnert has been devoted for thirty years to mental health services at Singer Mental Health and Developmental Center, rising from counselor to facility director, reflecting his lifelong dedication to human well-being and dignity. His humanitarian efforts extended well beyond his professional career. For over two decades, Kunnert led Rockford's Mayor's Task Force on the Homeless, tirelessly advocating for those in need. His extensive volunteer work includes leadership roles in mental health associations, crime prevention, and victim assistance programs. Kunnert's faith-driven approach to service is evident in his work with Lead Like Jesus Encounters and co-founding LayLife in Uganda. His commitment to spiritual growth and servant leadership embodies Loras College's mission of "Pro Deo et Patria," using his gifts to build a better world.
BRAD JOHNSON ('03)
▶MEN'S SOCCER
A dangerous scorer, Johnson remains near the top of Loras' record books in multiple categories 21 years after his graduation.
NATALIE (PUCCI) KLOCKE ('08)
▶WOMEN'S BASKETBALL
A four time all-conference honoree, Klocke achieved all-region status twice as a standout guard for the women's basketball team.
ALEX MCGREW
('10)
▶FOOTBALL
One of the most decorated athletes in Loras football history, McGrew saw time at running back, punter, and a returned on special teams. McGrew was also a member of the track and field team competing in the javelin, long jump, triple jump, and as part of the 4x100-meter relay team.
KINSEY (CAMPBELL) JOINER ('13)
▶WOMEN'S SOCCER
A three-year captain, two-time all conference MVP, and two-time all-American, Joiner helped the program to an impressive 77-13-2 record during her career, leading Loras to four IIAC titles and qualifying for four NCAA Tournaments.
RANDY STEWARD (1993-2016)
▶WRESTLING
Steward enjoyed a 23-year career at the side of the mat as the head coach of the Duhawks. With an overall record of 228-199-2 over his career, Steward is the winningest coach in program history.
1979-80 MEN'S BASKETBALL TEAM
One of the most successful senior classes in a program built on sustained excellence, the 1979-80 Loras College men's basketball team finished its season by winning 10 of its final 11 regular season games. The team closed out the year with an overall record of 23-11 against a schedule littered with many NCAA Division I and II teams. The finish was the third-straight year the program met or exceeded the 23 win mark, a feat never achieved before at Loras. Team members include: Jim Brew ('83), Terry Callahan ('80), Jeff Carter ('81), Tom Connelly ('83), John Curtis ('84), Kurt Denner ('81), Curtis Evans ('83), Terry Galvin (’82),
Jim Hayes ('83), Bill Hogan ('83), Roy Humphrey ('83), Bill Finn ('80), Kevin Fuller ('82), Terry Galvin ('82), Paul Kacynski ('82), George Lynch ('83), Bill May ('80), Tom Meany ('83), Mike Mills, Dick Mertens ('82), Neal Trainor ('83), and managers Paul Breitbach ('83), and Doug Wareham ('82)
▲From L to R: Randy Steward (1993-2016), Kinsey (Campbell) Joiner ('13), Brad Johnson ('03), Natalie (Pucci) Klocke ('08), Alex McGrew ('10)
huddles
