Loyola Magazine Spring 2010 by Loyola University New Orleans

Spring10Cover_SummerCover 2/4/10 8:50 AM Page 3

LOYOLA UNIVERSITY NEW ORLEANS MAGAZINE

SPRING 2010

Putting First-Year Students on the Path to Success

CENTER FOR THE STUDY OF NEW ORLEANS LAUNCHED ALUMNI ASSOCIATION ENGAGES GRADUATES

VOLUNTEERS LEND A HAND IN BELIZE FIRST-YEAR SEMINARS TEACH JESUIT VALUES

Spring10 2-5 2/10/10 1:31 PM Page 3

LOYOLA UNIVERSITY NEW ORLEANS M A G A Z I N E SPRING 2010

•

VOL.20

•

NO.1

•

WWW.LOYNO.EDU

COVER FOCUS 16

Putting First-Year Students on the Path to Success

FEATURES 22

Jesuit Values in Action

Bringing Alumni Back to the Pack

Thinking Critically, Acting Justly

Loyola in Print

DEPARTMENTS 06 On the Avenue 06 News 12 Students 14 Athletics

Tracking the Pack

Wolftracks 43 Wolf Pups 49 Calendar of Events 50 Memorials

Cover Photo: St. Louis Cathedral, New Orleans, La. Loyola University New Orleans Magazine is published three times per year by Loyola University New Orleans Office of Marketing and Communications 7214 St. Charles Avenue, Box 909 New Orleans, LA 70118 All correspondence should be sent to: Loyola University New Orleans Magazine Loyola University New Orleans 7214 St. Charles Avenue, Box 909 New Orleans, LA 70118 Loyola University New Orleans has fully supported and fostered in its educational programs, admissions, employment practices, and in the activities it operates the policy of not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, national origin, race, religion, sex/gender, or sexual orientation. This policy is in compliance with all applicable federal regulations and guidelines. The inside of Loyola University New Orleans Magazine is printed on recycled paper using 10 percent postconsumer waste.

Spring10 2-5 2/3/10 9:38 AM Page 4

From the President Last fall, I reminded everyone that we accomplished a great deal in 2009. Now, the work for the present, and into the future, is the implementation of Loyola 2012, the university’s strategic plan. In time, as we move through implementation, we will evaluate our achievements, and that evaluative process will give us the substance for a new cycle of planning and implementation. Loyola must be a place that is always involved in a cycle of planning, implementation, evaluation, and planning. Loyola 2012 allows us to strengthen our undergraduate admissions by building a strong demand for a Loyola education. The goal of our work is not to only have a great year this year or next, but continue to grow demand over the long term. The more we can build the demand for a Loyola education, the better we will be able to realize the goals of our plan. Our fall to spring retention rate was 96 percent for first-year students. This is a three-percent increase from 93 percent from last year. There have been many retention initiatives that have contributed to this success, including a fuller selection of First-Year Seminars, expanded learning communities, and the countless hours of support offered by members of our faculty and staff. Nevertheless, we have room for improvement, and we will continue to expand our retention initiatives. ILIVE, a relatively new program at Loyola, is shaping our students’ way of interacting with the world by focusing on specific, individualized strengths. The pilot program features Gallup’s StrengthsFinder assessment, and focusing on strength-based development is the fundamental core of The Ignatius of Loyola Institute for Values Education, or ILIVE. ILIVE gives undergraduate students ways in which to learn and live the values of Loyola, enhance their academic commitments, and transition into lives of service to others. Loyola 2012 also involves implementation of the Master Plan for facilities, which will take place over a number of years. The plan was developed with the Kell Muñoz firm under the leadership of Loyola alumnus and former Board of Trustees Member Henry Muñoz. The first phase involves the renovation of Thomas Hall, a project that has already begun, which will provide prospective students and current students with a convenient one-stop shop including convenient access to Undergraduate Admissions, Financial Aid, the Bursar, Student Records, and Student Finance. With the Thomas Hall project, as with other future projects, we will work to attain certification under The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System. The first phase also involves a two-floor addition to the West Road Parking Garage, improvements to the campus infrastructure serving Monroe Hall, and improvements to the main campus central plant. The second phase of the Master Plan will include a new student center and residence hall, as well as the start of a multi-phase renovation to Monroe Hall. Planning on these projects is currently underway. Having celebrated our accomplishments in 2009, we must continue to come together as we work to realize the dreams of our future articulated in Loyola 2012. As we know, the road ahead will not be easy for the city or us. But it is, I believe, worth staying the course to build a renewed university and a renewed city. The work ahead involves risks, but they are, I believe, risks worth taking.

With prayers and best wishes,

Kevin Wm. Wildes, S.J., Ph.D., President

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 2-5 2/3/10 9:38 AM Page 5

Spring10 6-15 2/3/10 9:40 AM Page 2

Parents flock to campus for Family Weekend The families and friends of Loyola students came to campus for Family Weekend, October 2 – 4, to see for themselves what makes Loyola so unique. Events included attending classes with students, a bus tour of New Orleans, a Mass and discussion with University President Kevin Wm. Wildes, S.J., a wine and cheese reception, a performance by the Loyola Symphony Orchestra, and a Jazz Brunch.

Women’s Studies 20th Anniversary Celebration Loyola celebrated the 20th anniversary of the women’s studies minor on October 8. Professor Emerita Nancy Fix Anderson, Ph.D., presented her paper, “Women at Loyola: A History,” followed by a reception in the Diboll Gallery. The minor is an interdisciplinary and multi-disciplinary program that seeks to provide students and the university community with educational frameworks and strategies for intellectual and personal growth, positive social

change, and political awareness that informs active participation in public affairs. It prepares students to gain an awareness of women’s issues, and to understand how social constructions of gender and sexuality affect and have shaped daily experience, broader social structures, institutions, social relations, and cultural and aesthetic production. By its very definition, attention to gender necessitates an approach that examines gender across race, class, sexuality, age, and nationality.

Dr. Nancy Fix Anderson presented “Women at Loyola: A History.” 6

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 6-15 2/3/10 9:40 AM Page 3

The Laramie Project: Ten Years Later comes to campus The Loyola Department of Theatre Arts and Dance joined playwright Moisés Kaufman and the Tectonic Theater Project for The Laramie Project: Ten Years Later, a global follow-up of the powerful play and movie, The Laramie Project, on October 12. The epilogue focused on the long-term effects of the hate murder of Matthew Shepard, who was brutally killed in Laramie, Wyo., in 1998. The depravity of his murder galvanized activists in a call to eradicate anti-gay violence and hate crimes. Loyola’s production reunited its original 2008 cast of The Laramie Project. The play, written by members of the Tectonic Theater Project and playwright Moisés Kaufman, was directed by Loyola theatre arts professor C. Patrick Gendusa.

Loyola joined more than 100 other theaters in the U.S., Canada, Great Britain, Spain, China, and Australia in performing the play on October 12, the anniversary of Shepard’s death, in an effort to raise awareness about hate crimes. The main production took place in New York, N.Y., at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall. The epilogue explored how Shepard’s murder transformed the town of Laramie and how his murder continues to reverberate through the community. The play included new interviews with Shepard’s mother and his murderer, Aaron McKinney, who is currently serving two consecutive life terms in prison. The writers also conducted follow-up interviews with Laramie residents who were a part of the original play.

Jesuit heritage celebrated during Loyola Week The Jesuit Center and the Student Government Association (SGA) presented Loyola Week, a series of events, activities, and exhibits to celebrate the Jesuit heritage of Loyola University New Orleans, November 1 – 7. Loyola Week was established for the larger Loyola community to rediscover and explore the Jesuit heritage of the university, its history, founders, identity, and mission. As a Jesuit educational institution, the university’s principles are based on the more than 450-year-old teaching foundations of Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits. Activities included: an outdoor Mass; an outdoor screening of The Exorcist; Katrina’s Internally Displaced People—The Status and the Stories panel discussion; Migration in the South lecture; Dress it Up: Dinner with the Jesuits; Jesuits at Work: The Blending of Jesuit Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

Callings and Professions panel discussion; The Battle of Pamplona: Flag Football without the Football Tournament; Carnivale: Interfaith/Intercultural Bazaar; and Wolves on the Prowl: Tenth Annual National Community Service Day. 7

Spring10 6-15 2/3/10 9:41 AM Page 4

U.S. Rep. Ron Paul speaks at Loyola U.S. Representative Ron Paul (R-Texas) presented “The Fed and Foreign Policy” at Loyola on September 2. Paul was invited to speak at Loyola by the College of Business Economics Club. Paul, a Republican who represents the 14th Congressional District in Texas, ran unsuccessfully for U.S. president in 2008. Although he didn’t win the presidency, Paul gained millions of supporters who were drawn to his philosophy of limited government and a free economy. Most recently, Paul challenged U.S. economic policy, criticizing the “Cash for Clunkers” program and challenging the Federal Reserve System to an audit. U.S. Representative Ron Paul

LIM expands into Africa On behalf of the Loyola Institute for Ministry (LIM), Catherine Zeph, Ed.D., LIM faculty coordinator for instructional design and assistant professor of religion and education, traveled to the Archdiocese of Benin City, Nigeria, to conduct the first ever LIM facilitator training in Africa, July 13 – 17, 2009. Beforehand, a former principal’s home on the Immaculate Conception College campus was renovated for the sole purpose of Loyola classes. The building was painted to replicate the maroon and gold of Loyola, and the group posted a big Loyola University New Orleans sign and three flagpoles, one each for the Nigerian, Vatican, and soon to come, Loyola flags. Zeph trained 12 facilitators, all of whom used laptop computers to read their materials, and they started new learning groups this past winter. Tom

Ryan, Ph.D., LIM director, traveled to Benin City in May 2009 to meet with their archbishop and to sign the agreements between the Archdiocese of Benin City and Loyola University New Orleans.

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 6-15 2/3/10 9:41 AM Page 5

Scholarship donors honored for generous support More than 130 distinguished guests comprised of alumni, friends, faculty, and students gathered on October 14 at the Audubon Tea Room in New Orleans, La., to honor Loyola’s devoted scholarship donors. Scholarships make Loyola accessible to all, and they reward hard work and academic excellence. Eighty-four percent of Loyola students receive some form of financial aid, and nearly one-third—nearly twice the national average—of our undergraduate students are first in their families to attend college. Although many of our endowed scholarships were not awarded this year due to broad declines in the financial markets, Loyola is thankful to our generous benefactors for their generosity to our deserving students. Loyola is

especially grateful to those endowment donors who made additional scholarship gifts in support of our deserving students.

Shannon del Corral ’98, Floyd del Corral ’51, and Nancy Brennan

Tonja Howard, Lauren Courville, Stephen Barbas, J.D ’79, Dr. Judith Hunt, Dr. Behrooz Moazami

Loyola receives $160,000 from the State of Louisiana Board of Regents Loyola was among 26 Louisiana colleges and universities to receive a collective $160,000 in matching funds from the State of Louisiana through the 2008 – 2009 Louisiana Educational Quality Support Fund. The funds established two endowed professorships in the College of Law and first generation undergraduate scholarships in both the College of Business and the College of Music and Fine Arts. With $40,000 distributed to each fund, the Hon. Herbert W. Christenberry Professorship, the Jack Nelson Distinguished Professorship, the Thomas and Catherine Kloor Endowed Scholarship for First Generation Students, and the RosaMary Foundation First Generation Scholarship in Music and Fine Arts are

Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

now fully endowed at $100,000 each due to generous support from Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Christenberry, J.D. ’57, Stuart Smith, J.D. ’86 Thomas ’52 and Kitty Kloor, and the RosaMary Foundation. The permanently endowed professorship funds will ultimately provide the selected faculty member to enhance teaching, research, and scholarly activities, while the first generation scholarship will benefit an eligible student or students with a scholarship along with at least 10 hours of campus employment. This is Loyola’s first time to receive the matching scholarship funds since the First Generation Undergraduate Scholarship was announced by the Board of Regents on August 1, 2007.

Spring10 6-15 2/3/10 9:41 AM Page 6

Loyola launches Center for the Study of New Orleans The Loyola College of Social Sciences launched the Center for the Study of New Orleans (CSNO) on August 10. The center, headed by School of Mass Communication professor Leslie Parr, Ph.D., is a cross-disciplinary resource hub that promotes research and reflection on the history, politics, culture, and environment of New Orleans, La. The center held four public events during the 2009 – 10 academic year. The programs explored New Orleans’ unique culture by drawing on the expertise of nationally known New Orleans scholars. The center also plans to offer a Loyola minor in the study of New Orleans whereby students complete courses across the Loyola curriculum that support the CSNO’s mission. The events included: An Evening of Jazz and History, readings by renowned Up from the Cradle of Jazz author Jason Berry, accompanied by performances with a band led by Dr. Michael White with vocalist John Boutté; What is New Orleans?, a discussion on the people, culture, and geography of New Orleans, with Susan Saulny, New Orleans native and writer for

The New York Times, Larry Powell, professor of history at Tulane University, and Richard Campanella, geographer and author of Bienville’s Dilemma: A Historical Geography of New Orleans; and New Orleans in the ’60s: A Time of Change, a panel discussion on the turbulent era of segregation, integration, and emerging identity groups, with Alecia Long, a history professor at Louisiana State University and author of The Great Southern Babylon: Sex, Race, and Respectability in New Orleans, 1865 – 1920, Rafael Cassimere, University of New Orleans history professor, emeritus, and Kent Germany, who teaches history at University of South Carolina. The final event will be Taken Against Their Will: Kidnappers, Detectives, and Slaves on March 23. Historians Mike Ross, University of Maryland, and Adam Rothman, Georgetown University, will weave a tale of intrigue as they discuss two infamous 19th-century Louisiana kidnapping cases. For more information on the CSNO, visit www.loyno.edu/studyneworleans

An Evening of Jazz and History was the first event hosted by the Center for the Study of New Orleans. 10

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 6-15 2/3/10 9:41 AM Page 7

School of Nursing offers La.’s first Doctor of Nursing Practice Program Since the initial enrollment of nursing students at Loyola in 1979, the School of Nursing has mounted innovative programs in nursing, keeping pace with dramatic changes in nursing education. That tradition of excellence continues with the transition of its curriculum for nurse practitioners from the master’s level to the doctoral level. Loyola is the first university in Louisiana and among the first 90 in the country to offer the Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) Degree Program. In May 2009, Loyola’s Board of Trustees unanimously approved the addition of the D.N.P. Degree Program to the curriculum for the School of Nursing, which is housed within the College of Social Sciences. The school will enroll its first cohort of 25 post-master’s degree students this spring. The program will admit nurses who hold a master’s degree as a family/adult, women’s health, pediatric, or gerontology nurse practitioner. The program will be delivered exclusively

online to meet the enrollment demands of nurses nationally, regionally, and locally. Rapid growth in the complexity of health care delivery requires nurses to be prepared with the highest level of scientific knowledge and practice expertise to assure the health of the public. Graduate nursing education has responded by instituting the D.N.P. degree, joining other health professions offering the practice doctorate. The D.N.P. is similar in stature to terminal practice degrees in medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, and audiology. Loyola continues to produce highly skilled nurses with advanced degrees. Now celebrating its 30th anniversary, the School of Nursing annually enrolls more than 650 students. It has graduated nearly 1,200 registered nurses with baccalaureate degrees and more than 500 advanced nursing practice providers with master’s degrees. For more information, visit www.css.loyno.edu/nursing

The School of Nursing celebrated 30 years of educating students. Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

Spring10 6-15 2/3/10 9:41 AM Page 8

Student Mia Borders releases debut album for own label Loyola student Mia Borders and her Funk-Rock & Soul band have been touring New Orleans, La., in support of their new release, “Southern Fried Soul,” under the singer-songwriter’s own independent label, Blaxican Records. The 11-song collection is the band’s second effort together, following their 2007 debut, “the ep.” Produced by Borders and hitmaker William J. Smith in Nashville, Tenn., the album features all original songs, written by rhythm guitarist Borders and composed with her band—Pablo Gonzalez (bass), Nick Hingel (drums), and Kyle Sclafani (lead guitar). Also featured on the album are Nashville piano pro Jim Wilson and New York sax player Cyrus McGoldrick. Hailed as “New Orleans’ hottest buzz band” by Where Y’at magazine, and named one of “97 Quirky New Orleans Discoveries” by New Orleans Magazine, Borders has left a lasting impression on

her hometown’s local music scene. Her official website (www.miaborders.com) features not only full-length audio and video clips from the album, but also exclusive remixes, acoustic renditions, and live performances.

Mia Borders (second from left) with her band, Funk-Rock & Soul 12

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 6-15 2/3/10 9:42 AM Page 9

Trial Advocacy Team wins national competition The College of Law’s Trial Advocacy Team won first place at the Quinnipiac University Criminal Justice Trial Advocacy Competition held October 30–November 1, in New Haven, Conn. By winning this competition, Loyola received an automatic invitation to the American Bar Association National Criminal Justice Trial Advocacy Competition in Chicago in March 2010. Loyola’s team was made up of students Nia Weeks, Karina Perez, Ryan Higgins, and Dante Butler, who also received an award for conducting the best cross examination during the preliminary trials. The team is advised by Blaine LeCesne, associate professor in the College of Law, and coached by Bill Sommers, ’72, J.D. ’75, an adjunct faculty member who works with the Trial Advocacy Program. Loyola’s team participated in four trials which involved a multiple-count indictment for murder and included numerous evidentiary issues as well as constitutional law questions. Loyola won the final round against Fordham University School of Law. The Loyola team’s trials were judged by a variety of state and federal judges. The competition was sponsored by Qunnipiac University School of Law and the Criminal Justice Section of the American Bar Association. Participating schools at this national competition included Georgetown University Law Center, The George Washington University School of Law, Creighton University School of Law, University of Denver Sturm College of Law, Georgia State College of Law, and Quinnipiac University School of Law.

Student Successes The New Orleans City Council gave proclamations to political science students Alexandra Hoover, Julie Sisson, and David Zoller for their work on a policy brief titled “Customer Service in New Orleans, Louisiana.” Mass communication student Kevin Zansler, photo editor for The Maroon, was one of three journalism students at area colleges chosen in a competitive application process to receive a New Orleans Press Club scholarship. Mass communication student Lourdes Fulton received the Nia Robertson Memorial Scholarship at the annual Public Relations Society of America New Orleans chapter awards banquet. Also, 2009 graduates Janine Sheedy, Sarah Mackota, Ashley Sutton, and Vicki Voelker and current senior Heather Miranne were awarded the Silver Anvil Award in the external relations/nonprofit public relations campaign category. The College of Law’s Moot Court Team, which consisted of law students Megan Peterson, Tyler Rench, and coach Kelly Stein, placed second overall in the John Marshall Law School International Moot Court Competition in Information Technology and Privacy Law. The team was also awarded best petitioner’s brief, which will be published in The John Marshall Journal of Computer and Information Law. Overcoming Katrina: African American Voices from the Crescent City and Beyond, co-authored by first-year law student D’Ann Penner and Keith C. Ferdinand, M.D., received the 2009 Congressional Black Caucus Health Braintrust Leadership in Journalism Award from the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

Spring10 6-15 2/3/10 9:42 AM Page 10

Women’s tennis returns The Loyola University New O r l e a n s w o m e n ’s t e n n i s t e a m returned to campus this spring, led by head coach Zubin Engineer. The 2010 squad showcases an extremely young team, with all but one player being an underclassman. The only member with collegiate experience is junior Claire Landry (Lafayette, La.). Engineer got the ball rolling in September, bringing Landry on board as the first member of the recently established program. Landry joins Loyola after playing two years at NCAA-I Lipscomb University. She played singles and doubles for the Lady Bison and will do so for the Wolfpack, taking the #1 spot in both. In high school, Landry won two Louisiana state titles in doubles. The sophomore class consists of four members in Katherine Beargie (Pensacola, Fla.), Rachel Crump (St. Louis, Mo.), Frances Sweeney (Mexico City, Mexico), and Elizabeth Wallace. Beargie lettered two years in high school at Pensacola Catholic under head coach Geoff Watts. Crump, out of St. Joseph’s Academy, was a member of the tennis team that won four straight Missouri state titles. Beargie and Crump will team up to play #2 doubles for the Pack. Sweeney, who played doubles

in the ASOMEX Tournament while in high school, will team up with Landry for #1 doubles. Sweeny is also battling for #2 singles. Three freshmen, Frances Bonnin (Ponce Puerto, Rico), Hannah Neal (Portland, Ore.), and Maggie Copeland round out the team for Engineer. Although Bonnin’s high school did not have a tennis team, she played recreationally and is looking to play #4 singles. Neal, who lettered all four years at Sunset High, where she played doubles, is also fighting for #2 singles and will team up with Bonnin for #3 doubles. Loyola started their 2010 campaign with a home match on Jan. 31. The Wolfpack was tested early with two of their first three matches against Xavier (La.). The Gold Nuggets have been the class of the GCAC, winning six of the last eight titles. After a double-header on Feb. 13 at home against Tougaloo and Belhaven, Loyola headed out on the road for four straight GCAC matches, finishing up on March 13 at William Carey. Loyola hosts another GCAC double-header on March 20 before heading to Thibodaux on March 26 to take on Nicholls State. The Wolfpack wraps up the season on April 18 at home against LSU-Shreveport, before heading into the GCAC Tournament which starts on April 23.

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 6-15 2/3/10 9:42 AM Page 11

For the second consecutive year, the Loyola men’s basketball team assisted the New Orleans Hornets and the Louisiana Children’s Museum in launching the Read to Achieve initiative for the 2009 – 10 season with the “Run, Read, Leap, Achieve!” literacy event on October 20. Loyola head coach Michael Giorlando, along with assistant coach Joey Stiebing and players Ryan Brock, Darrinton Moncrieffe, and Nick Tuszynski, all participated. The event included more than 500 third graders from the Recovery School District, Jefferson Parish, and St. Bernard Parish schools. The students spent the morning learning about the importance of literacy and education through different stations located inside the museum and outside in block-party style on Julia Street. They also enjoyed creative writing sessions hosted by the Louisiana Department of Education. Not to be outdone, head coach Kellie Kennedy and the Loyola women’s basketball team lent a

Photo by Layne Murdoch, NBA Photos

Wolfpack serving the community

helping hand to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s Unmask the Cure-Costume for a Cause event on October 23. Loyola’s participation fell under the university’s commitment to the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Champions of Character program which promotes servant leadership by student athletes and coaches in the community. Kennedy served as a judge for the costume contest, while the Wolfpack players and coaching staff assisted with the set up and served food to the participants.

Trenese Smith listed among The Times-Picayune’s Female College Athletes of the Decade Women’s basketball player Trenese Smith was named one of the Female College Athletes of the Decade by The Times-Picayune. Smith was fourth in the newspaper’s reader poll behind winner Seimone Augustus (LSU). Sylvia Fowles (LSU) was second, and Janell Burse (Tulane) was third in the poll. During the 2008 – 09 season, Smith was named third team NAIA All-American and second team All-Louisiana by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association. The Gulf Coast Athletic Conference tapped Smith as the Player of the Year for the third time in her career. Smith was honored as the Allstate Sugar Bowl Outstanding Female Amateur Athlete for the second consecutive year. In 2007 – 08, Smith earned second team NAIA All-American and first team LSWA All-Louisiana honors. She also Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

set the Loyola single-season scoring record with 690 points and the single game mark with 30 points. She had 10 three-pointers in a game against Dillard to set a GCAC record. Smith was the GCAC Freshman of the Year in 2006 – 07. That same year, she was honored as All-American honorable mention and second team All-Louisiana. During her career, Loyola has appeared in the NAIA National Tournament the last three years. The Wolfpack has won the GCAC regular season championship three times and GCAC Tournament Title twice. Loyola has a 91-32 record for a winning percentage of .740 with Smith in the lineup. This season, the LaPlace, La., native broke the 2,000 point barrier and is the leading scorer in Loyola women’s basketball history. Smith is averaging 17.6 points per game which is 24th in the NAIA in scoring. 15

Spring10 16-21 2/4/10 8:53 AM Page 2

Putting First-Year Students on the Path to Success By Ray Willhoft ’00

Whether they are 2,000 miles or 15 minutes away from home, for first-year students, college can be both the most exciting and the most frightening time of their lives. Standing on the cusp of adulthood, they eagerly embrace their first taste of freedom, yet the daunting responsibility of choosing their future path in life is a serious concern. And though in the past, students were mostly thrown into the collegiate experience headfirst with a “sink or swim” mentality, universities have changed their approach to students’ first year on campus.

Class of 2013

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 16-21 2/4/10 8:53 AM Page 3

The First-Year Student Approach: Then and Now Attending college in the past, particularly in the 1950s and ’60s, was often like going through boot camp. In many cases, introductory courses were designed to weed out students who were not prepared for the rigorous work of higher education. In fact, according to Vice President for Enrollment Management and Associate Provost Sal Liberto, it was not uncommon on the first

day of class to hear the professor say, “Look to the person on your left and look to the person on your right; one of them will not be here next year.” But times change, and today Loyola University New Orleans takes a different approach to first-year students, encouraging their success rather than intimidating them about failure. Recognizing that the transition from high school to college isn’t easy, several university offices have come together to make students’ first year of collegiate life smoother than that of their predecessors. And though students are still presented with an academically-challenging curriculum, both the faculty and staff are dedicated to helping them achieve success. Loyola now offers a First-Year Experience Program that integrates students academically and socially into the Loyola learning environment. The experience has enhanced student engagement and achievement and features a number of programs and events that help students make connections between themes of the programs and Loyola’s mission of educating students to be men and women for others.

The Journey Begins The Office of Enrollment Management is the first contact from Loyola that students receive. But getting the students to enroll is only half of the challenge. The staff also plays a major role in ensuring the first-year students stay at Loyola upon arriving, with the Enrollment Management counselors maintaining their relationships with the students and periodically checking in on them. And since students today have a wide array of colleges to choose from, it is more important than ever to make sure their collegiate experience meets or exceeds their expectations. “We want to recruit students to graduate,” says Liberto, “and we’re here for students to be successful. The first weeks on campus are crucial for new students, so we work closely with the other offices on campus to develop a personal relationship with the students.” Liberto also maintains his own blog, titled “Salutations,” on the Loyola website. That collaborative philosophy has driven the university to refocus its retention efforts, even including retention as a major component of Loyola 2012, the university’s overall strategic plan. Liberto also has created a new position within Enrollment Management. The Rev. Jim Caime, S.J., who has worked at Loyola since 2002, is the university’s new retention coordinator, and his focus is helping first-year students continue at Loyola to their sophomore year. “My job is to make students feel connect-

Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

Spring10 16-21 2/4/10 8:53 AM Page 4

ed to the university and to one another,” explains Caime. “The more students get invested in the Loyola community, the more vibrant the cam“Orientation and pus becomes, and the First-Year Seminars are more students want to stay.” First-year students the programs that have often feel overwhelmed, helped ease my transition so Caime’s goal is to to college life. During make sure they underthese programs, I met stand that the university cares about them and other students in my wants them to do well. major, and I have also Since 28 percent of met students that have first-year students are the first in their families similar interests to the to attend college, Caime ones I have.” also works closely with —Andrea Aleman, parents, as they are First-Year Student going through a transition process as well. Of course, the Office of Enrollment Management is not the only office making the first year of college easier for students and parents.

Welcome to Life on Campus Dovetailing with the work of the Office of Enrollment Management, the Office of Student Affairs, which includes Co-Curricular Programs, Residential Life, and the Danna Student Center, introduces first-year students to life on campus. “For the Office of Student Affairs, our business has always been about student success,” explains Vice President for Student Affairs and Associate Provost Cissy Petty, Ph.D. That first step towards success begins before classes even start by familiarizing new students with the university. During New Student Orientation, Student Affairs conducts optional Loyola Lagniappe summer sessions—two-day introductory programs wherein students and parents make new friends, attend important educational resource sessions to learn about academic expectations, receive academic advising, and register for courses.

Next comes Wolfpack Welcome, a three-day program held immediately before classes begin. This program, which all new students attend, is filled with events, workshops, and activities that help them become acclimated to Loyola and the city of New Orleans. Themes of diversity, healthy choices, safety, and academic success tips are addressed, as well as fun and exciting activities including the traditional first-year class photo in the Marquette horseshoe, all leading up to the first day of classes. There also is parent programming to help parents acclimate to the institution and city as well. By the time all of the orientation activities are finished, students are comfortable with the campus and New Orleans and are ready to begin the fall semester. But throughout the entire academic year, there is no shortage of things to do on campus. With more than 100 student organizations spanning the academic and social spectrum, as well as numerous events sponsored by the University Planning Board (UPB), first-year students can find the right fit for themselves on campus and have a true collegiate experience. “I never imagined that I would be so involved as a freshman,” says first-year student Lindsey Martin. “It is amazing to me how many resources there are to find activities that are perfect for you. There are so many opportunities here to be involved in the best organization possible for you, and if you can't find it, then you can organize it and start it yourself.”

First-year students got a taste of school spirit during the Wolfpack Welcome picnic. 18

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 16-21 2/4/10 8:53 AM Page 5

Ensuring Success in the Classroom

Director of the Career Development Center Roberta Kaskel. “By partnering with faculty, we provide our College classes are very different from high students with tools for academic success and school classes, so it’s important for first-year encourage them to achieve personal success.” students to understand what is expected of them. One of the ways this is done is through the Loyola’s Common Curriculum introduces Residential Learning Communities (RLCs), students to the rigors of college work from the which place students together in a living environfirst day of classes. ment by interest or major with the goal of encourAnd First-Year Seminars, which all first-year aging personal and academic growth and fostering students take, reinforce this rigor and give students relationships. Currently, there are seven RLCs: a chance to synthesize what they’re learning in Cardoner Fellows, Faith/Justice, Honors, other courses. The seminars are small courses that International Experience, Psychology, Wellness, examine a single topic from the perspectives of sev- and Writing and Literature. Located in Buddig eral disciplines. Taught by leading teacher-schol- Hall, most RLCs consist of 20 students, and they ars, they provide unique classroom experiences, as have been met with high praise. well as co-curricular events, field trips, dinners, “Students enjoy living with other students like films, and other social gatherings. (See page 32.) themselves, who share common values and interests,” says Assistant Director for Residential Life Reagan Sidney. “They might spend 12 hours a week in class focusing on academics, so we try to find ways to engage their minds the rest of the time.” The students seem to agree. Student volunteers assisted first-year students during Wolfpack Welcome. “Of everything that I have experienced here at Loyola, the thing that I am most thankful for is the Cardoner Leadership Program” notes Martin. “We all live on the 10th The First-Year Seminars are the anchor of floor of Buddig and take the Rebuilding New Loyola’s First-Year Experience Program. The Orleans seminar. Within the first c o u p l e w e e k s o f school, the 20 of us most successful First-Year Experience bonded immediately. programs nationwide combine We are constantly in challenging academic seminars with contact with one powerful learning community another whether it is experiences outside the classroom to having lunch or reinforce and enrich the learning they supper together, or our offer students. Loyola’s program does reoccurring hallway exactly that: it is based on a partnership hangout times. I between first-year students’ faculty and would not feel nearly Student Affairs professionals who as much of a conneccollaborate on reflection activities, tion here at Loyola if special events, and field trips for the it wasn’t for these students. beautiful people.” “We are a Jesuit university, we focus on educating the whole student,” notes

Encouraging Success Outside of the Classroom

Guest speaker Martha Ward lectured to Creole Crossroads seminar students. Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

Spring10 16-21 2/4/10 8:53 AM Page 6

A Time for Transition and Reflection

find the weekend a great way to make sure that their student has adjusted to collegiate life and is doing well.

Loyola’s Jesuit identity provides the foundation for the university’s educational philosophy, and the Office of Mission and Ministry offers many opportunities within the First-Year Experience Program for spiritual reflection and growth. University Ministry offers the Freshmen Transitions Retreat, through which first-year students can get off campus, meet other first-year students, and reflect on the challenges and opportunities of transitioning into life at Loyola. Upper-class students, faculty, and staff share their experiences of transition, including the changing relationships with God, friends, and family; decision making and discernment; and involvement in the Loyola and New Orleans communities. Each residence hall also has a live-in chaplain for students to turn to with any problems they might be experiencing in their lives.

Building on the Past, Moving Toward the Future One measurement for the success of Loyola’s new approach to first-year students is retention. If students enjoy their first year of college, then they will stay through graduation. Through Loyola’s collaborative approach to the education of first-year students, the university’s retention rate continues to rise. In 2008 – 2009, the university achieved an 80-percent retention rate for all students. This percentage indicates students’ growing satisfaction with their first-year experience at Loyola. And it compares quite favorably to the national average for fouryear, private, “selective” master’s institutions which was 80.1 percent in 2008–2009 according to the ACT 2008 – 2009 data, but the university is dedicated to doing better. “The best

The Parental Connection Ultimately, the greatest resource for first-year students is their parents, so Loyola maintains a close relationship with parents to ensure that students stay on track both personally and academically. There is also an early warning system in place to notify parents of possible trouble with regard to their son or daughter. Student Affairs staff in particular remain Parents received a first-hand view of Loyola during Wolfpack Welcome. in contact with parents throughout the academic year and even serve as substitute parents if the retention initiatives happen on the ground, not in the air,” situation calls for it. “Sometimes students need a dif- says Liberto. “Our goal is to reach an 86-percent retention ferent voice to get them back on the right path,” says rate for the university, so there is still much work to be done.” Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Robert Loyola is dedicated to refining its First-Year Experience Reed. And it certainly helps when that voice comes Program by focusing on sophomore retention and adding from a person students know and trust. “We have a a more residential aspect to campus life. great team that loves our students and gets great joy And since student athletes had a 92-percent retention from educating them and touching their lives,” notes rate for 2008 – 2009, special attention also will be placed Petty. “Our students can feel that.” on examining their strategies for success. In addition, Student Affairs hosts the annual “Our student athletes feel an immediate connection to Family Weekend, which invites parents and siblings the university from the moment they are recruited due to to campus and gives them the opportunity to see their the personal contact they receive,” explains Director of student in class and in action. Open to parents of all Athletics and Wellness and Head Men’s Basketball students, parents of first-year students in particular Coach Michael Giorlando, D.D.S. “Our mandatory

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 16-21 2/4/10 8:53 AM Page 7

study halls for freshmen, the mentoring students receive from the coaches, and the learning community with their teammates all contribute to the success of our students.” But the university seems “We want to recruit to be on the right track, and students to graduate, and perhaps the best measurewe’re here for students ment for success is what the to be successful.” students themselves have to say. “In our most recent — Sal Liberto, results of the Student Vice President for Satisfaction Inventory (fall Enrollment 2009), our students reported Management and being significantly more Associate Provost satisfied than their counterparts at other institutions across the nation,” explains Senior Vice Provost for Academic Affairs Lydia Voigt, Ph.D. “My college experience has been amazing, and I believe it will only get better,” says first-year student Andrea Aleman. “Orientation and First-Year Seminars are the programs that have helped ease my transition to college life. During these programs, I met other students in my major, and I have also met students that have similar interests to the ones I have.” And Aleman isn’t alone. “My college experience has been great,” comments first-year student Carli Marcello. “I absolutely love it here, and I am so happy I chose this university. I love that my professors know me by name and

that they are committed to the students. Without this true support from the professors, I think adjusting to the college workload would have been much more difficult.” Thanks to the partnership between faculty and staff, all united in their commitment to student success, Loyola’s first-year students today are truly given a wellrounded introduction to collegiate life, paving the way for great accomplishments at Loyola and beyond.

Protest and Pop Music seminar students presented their projects in class.

Resources for New Students Several centers on campus are invaluable resources for first-year students:

The Academic Resource Center offers specialized programs designed to promote academic success. Students work closely with academic counselors to develop strategies for time management, note taking, textbook reading, and memorization.

The Career Development Center helps students discover who they are and how that translates into career opportunities. As students learn about careers and begin their professional journeys, the center strives to help them discover personal authenticity and fulfillment in the world of work. The University Counseling Center provides professional services in the area of psychological counseling. In its work with students, the center recognizes the developmental nature of student life; therefore, services are educational and preventative in focus.

Writing Across the Curriculum (WAC) supports excellence in critical thinking and writing in all undergraduate programs and classes at Loyola. WAC offers a variety of services to help students improve their writing and to assist faculty in designing effective writing assignments.

Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

Spring10 22-25 2/3/10 9:43 AM Page 2

Jesuit Values in Action Loyolaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ignacio Volunteers lend a hand to the people of Belize

By Katie Massimini

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 22-25 2/3/10 9:43 AM Page 3

The Central American town of Dangriga, Belize, stretches along the Caribbean coast. It is the cultural center of the Garifuna, people of mixed indigenous and African descent, and is the largest town in southern Belize. Each year, a small group of Loyola students—Ignacio Volunteers—travel to Dangriga to serve as teachers and coaches for about 300 local Belizean primary school students at the annual Umadagu Lescuelana summer camp. “Every year, the kids in town look forward to it,” says the Rev. Ted Dziak, S.J., vice president for Mission and Ministry. “Our co-teachers have a welcome party where they perform cultural drumming and dancing, and we bring things like the Cupid Shuffle and Michael Jackson’s Thriller dance to the event.” The interaction is a fun exchange of cultures for all involved. The Ignacio Volunteers live in a Dangriga community center for the elderly, called the Helpage building. The center, unused by the community in the summer, sits right on the Caribbean coast. The students sleep on mats on the floor and eat meals together at the center. The weather is hot, the showers are cold, and the living is simple. Ignacio Volunteers are paired up with local high school and junior college students to teach arts and

crafts, reading and writing, and math, as well as coach basketball, soccer, and volleyball. “At the end of our time in Dangriga, we also have a Parents’ Night, and we get the entire town together to watch the kids perform,” says Dziak. As Loyola students teach their students and explore the town, Dziak reminds them that they are there to be present to everyone they meet. “One of the challenges for students is to unplug. No iPod, cell phone, cable TV, Internet. We want our group to be present to those in front of us, not living in any virtual world.” The goal is for the students to immerse themselves in the experience, and to value the interactions they have with the students, their co-teachers, the townspeople, and themselves. Before they depart for Belize, Ignacio Volunteers spend months preparing for their trip. Students interested in the trip apply during the fall semester, and 12 applicants are chosen by Christmas. During the spring semester, they raise funds ($1,200 each), go on an overnight retreat, practice teaching, and gather supplies. Dziak and one other staff member, Joe Goddu ’08, a recent Loyola alumnus of the immersion program, also accompany the Ignacio Volunteers. The entire experience in Belize lasts 23 days.

“The crystal blue waters, the green towering trees, the water droplets collecting on the spider webs, the roaring waterfall, and the clear blue sky after a cleansing rain made the experience truly magical. I felt at one with nature and welcomed by its majesty. I believe that God was strongest at this moment.” — Joe Fleming Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

Spring10 22-25 2/3/10 9:43 AM Page 4

“Not one day goes by without me remembering

During the first my kids, my classroom, the Helpage, our beautiful days on a caye off full week, the dinners. I can say I became a much more confident the Caribbean volunteers explore coast, involved in person after this trip; I learned to rely less on Belize, touring rainfinal reflection and material things and let go; trust that it is God forests and Mayan relaxation. who has the greater plan for me.” ruins and jumping off Dziak says, “It’s —Arlene Imendia waterfalls. They also important to realize meet many people, including residents of a small in today’s world that there are people out there Mayan village. The volunteers spend two nights making a sustenance living. And these people are so there—sleeping on the floor—with no electricity or loving—our students come back and realize all they running water. After that, they are off to Dangriga for have, having lived as one with them.” two weeks. This Ignacio Volunteer trip, along with the other They end with Loyola immersion trips, is organized by Dziak and a couple of University Ministry staff member Josh Daly through the Office of Mission and Ministry. Mission and Ministry sponsors the Ignacio Volunteer Immersion Programs, including two in Jamaica, two in Belize, two new domestic trips (a Bayou Experience and a New Orleans Urban Plunge, both to be held during spring break) and one new trip to El Paso, working with the migrant population along the Mexican border.

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 22-25 2/3/10 9:44 AM Page 5

The Umadagu Lescuelana summer camp, now wellknown throughout Belize, was created by Dziak in 1990 and has been held 16 times during the past 19 years. The program is now in its fourth year at Loyola. Dziak started the program while he served as director of immersion programs at Boston College. While he was president of St. George’s College in Kingston, Jamaica, he continued the program, and involved college students from Belize and Jamaica as summer camp teachers. “I’ve been to Belize several times. Knew the people, knew the country. Belize is English speaking, so that’s the easiest country to do a program like this,” he says. Immersion volunteer work has always been in Dziak’s blood, starting with a stint in the Peace Corps to Korea. “International

immersion has always been important to me. Before Boston College, I assisted recent graduates in the Jesuit International Volunteers, a kind of a Jesuit Peace Corps,” he says. Dziak was the founding director of the program, now called JVI, at Georgetown in 1983. It is now part of the Jesuit Volunteer Corps, an agency that places recent university graduates in service work. “Immersion programs create a sense of global awareness and citizenship. It’s a way to help our students to understand the world,” he says. “Students take back so much more than they give. They begin to understand that there’s so much you can learn, even—and especially—in an area that seems to us to be so much poorer than our world. “Sometimes the changes our students experience are really profound. It ties into what we do as a Jesuit university: selfless giving, being men and women for others. They can really gain from their service; it affects their values, their life direction, and their future.” For more information on the Ignacio Volunteers, visit mm.loyno.edu/community-service/ignacio-volunteer-programs

“This trip made me push my limits and gave me insight to what I think my life’s aim should be.” —Jeffrey Ramon

Spring10 26-31 2/3/10 9:44 AM Page 2

Bringing Alumni Back to the Pack The Loyola Alumni Association is committed to providing quality programs, services, and communications By Monique Gaudin Gardner

Mission: Guided by the Jesuit principles of being men and women with and for others, the Loyola University New Orleans Alumni Association is organized to serve alumni, promote a spirit of cooperation and fellowship among alumni, encourage the development of lifelong relationships between alumni and the university, and foster philanthropic loyalty and support for the university. During the past 97 years, the Loyola University New Orleans Alumni Association has vigilantly maintained its mission of serving Loyola University as the ranks of its alumni steadily increased. As our alumni spread across the state, the nation, and the globe, the Alumni Association has provided them with a crucial link to their alma mater. Including the members of the Class of 2009, the Alumni Association now has more than 46,000 members. These members enable the Alumni Association, through a variety of

programs, services, and communications, to serve Loyolaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s alumni and to help boost the university to greater heights. Just this past year, the Alumni Association provided support for 118 events in 17 cities from August 1, 2008, to July 31, 2009, serving a total of 7,000 participants. And during the same time period, through its print and online publications, which include Loyola University New Orleans Magazine and the monthly e-mail newsletter, The Pack Press, the Alumni Association had more than one million communication contacts with alumni and friends.

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 26-31 2/3/10 9:44 AM Page 3

New and Improved Communications This September, the Alumni Association launched a new website at alumni.loyno.edu, which includes an online social networking community. Registered users can access the Alumni Directory; import Facebook photos and add alumni events to Facebook Walls; find alumni events in their area and receive information about Alumni Weekend; submit and view Wolftracks; join and create community groups by graduation year, major, club, and interests; and upload and view photos in galleries. More than 400 me m b e r s h a v e

regist e r e d a n d a r e c r e a t i n g g r o u p s b a s e d on graduation year, major, or other interests. Registering is free and only requires a few easy steps. The online community is also a vehicle for members to update their contact information. Providing updated e-mail addresses ensures receipt of up-to-date news from the university and of special invitations to campus and chapter events. The Alumni Association can also be seen on Facebook and Twitter.

New Programs that Build Support for the University

The Class of 1959 participated in the 2009 Commencement.

Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

Membership in the Alumni Association is automatic upon graduation and allows graduates to affiliate with chapters around the country and abroad and to participate in the many events that take place on campus and around New Orleans. Alumni Weekend was held in conjunction with Commencement Weekend this past year for the first time. The Class of 1959, Loyolaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 50-year graduates, participated in Commencement and received a round of applause from the Class of 2009 as they processed into the Superdome. Later, they were inducted into the Golden Wolves

Spring10 26-31 2/10/10 1:40 PM Page 4

Society. Milestone reunion classes attended a dinner and gala, and the Adjutor Hominum Award was presented during the Annual Alumni Association Jazz Brunch. Alumni Weekend 2010 will be held May 7 – 9. As a part of educating students to their lifelong relationship with the university, the Alumni A s s o c i a t i o n g a v e a l l The Young Alumni Pack enjoyed a night at Rock n’ Bowl in July. In addition to the annual events, the Alumni entering students, the Class of 2013, a special glass with the alumni logo to welcome them to Association hosted several Wine and Cheese the campus last fall. The Alumni Association Receptions this year in support of the Montage will continue to sponsor events for students Fine and Performing Arts Series. The Alumni Association added Singing with throughout the year. The Young Alumni Pack has been active Santa, a new tradition to the annual Christmas with A Summer Cocktail Reception at Cure in at Loyola: A Musical Celebration, in December early June and the annual Young Alumni Night in which Santa and Mrs. Claus made an early at Rock n’ Bowl in July. Each of these events was Christmas visit to Loyola’s campus. The Alumni Association is also supporting designed to welcome new alumni—young alumni—“into the fold” and get them actively Wolfpack Athletics in a BIG way this year. In addition to participating in the annual pep rally involved as soon as possible. preceding The Battle of Freret Street Men’s Basketball Game against Tulane and hosting the Annual Hall of Fame Reception and Induction Ceremony in February, the Alumni Association is hosting a series of “tailgates” which started in October 2009 and will end in April 2010. The tailgates precede volleyball, basketball, and baseball games. The final event will be The Alumni Association hosted the Annual Hall of Fame Reception in A Family Day at Wolfpack February 2009 for former athletes.

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 26-31 2/3/10 9:45 AM Page 5

Baseball vs. LSUS at Segnette Field on April 17. The Alumni Association Joint Career Networking Committee has been working with the Office of Career Development to launch a new program, DINEworleans, which is a series of small, intimate mentoring dinners hosted and attended by local alumni. The dinners provide Loyola students with networking opportunities,

Art patrons enjoyed Loyola in Linen in August.

and the pilot program was held in June at the home of alumna Janice Foulks ’70, M.E. ’72 in the French Quarter. The Alumni Association is also working closely with the Office of Admissions to assist the university in its admissions recruiting efforts. Alumni leaders are volunteering this year by writing letters to prospective students, telephoning admitted students, attending admissions fairs, and hosting receptions for admitted and prospective students. The Alumni Association hosted four Summer Send-Offs in Atlanta, Lafayette, Chicago, and Washington D.C., attended by incoming freshman, their families, and alumni. In August, the Alumni Association hosted Loyola in Linen, a hugely successful event in conjunction with White Linen Night, the

Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

annual summer pre-art season celebration in New Orleans. The Alumni Association is excited to sponsor four faculty lectures as a part of the new Loyola Alumni Enrichment Series—Growing in Knowledge and Deepening our Faith. Professors will have the opportunity to communicate with their audience and inform and educate them about current events related to the university. The first event of the new year took place in New York City on January 14. Dr. William Barnett, professor of economics and Chase Bank Distinguished Professor of International Business gave his lecture, “Green Shoots: Prelude to Sustainable Recovery or a Severe Relapse?” The second lecture took place in Washington, D.C., at President Lincoln’s Cottage on January 24. Dr. Bernard Cook, professor of modern European history and Loyola historian, discussed “Loyola University New Orleans: 100 Years.” The Alumni Association will host a third lecture on March 18 in Atlanta with Sonya Duh´ e, director of the School of Mass Communication, and other experts. Plans are in the works for a College of Music and Fine Arts event.

Spring10 26-31 2/3/10 9:45 AM Page 6

New Programs that Support Fellow Members and the Community the Alumni Association is offering an Alumni Volunteer Service trip to Jamaica which is being held in May. This immersion trip is a volunteer service opportunity for our Loyola alumni to provide support and assistance to the disadvantaged people of Kingston, Jamaica. Although not a new event, but a new commitment by our alumni chapters to participate, Wolves on the Prowl, Loyolaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Day of Community Service, took place in November. In New Orleans alone, more than 360 students, alumni, and friends volunteered in the Good Shepherd School field day, beautified the Odyssey House Students, alumni, and friends volunteered in New Orleans, La., and around the country for Wolves on the Prowl in November. and the Success Mass. More than 800 prayer requests for Prep Academy, rebuilt houses with the St. honored alumni and friends who passed Bernard Project Rebuild Day, planted fruit away within the last year were accepted and o r c h a r d s w i t h P a r k w a y P a r t n e r s , a n d decorated New Orleans City Park for its sent up. Loyola University New Orleans annual Christmas in the Oaks Fundraiser. Alumni Travel provides travel opportunities Elsewhere, members of the Alumni for our alumni and the e n t i r e L o y o l a Association cleaned Nazareth House, a community, reinforcing the u n i v e r s i t y â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family homeless shelter in Boston, Mass.; traditions and values with emphasis on the sorted food at the Greater Chicago Food educational as well as Ignatian spirituality Depository and at Catholic Charities of that is unique to a Jesuit education. This Central Texas in Austin, Texas; volunteered year, in partnership with the Jesuit Center, at the Texas Discovery Gardens in Dallas, The Alumni Association partnered again with the Jesuit Center on a Lenten Series held on five evenings during Lent. Also, in partnership with the Office of Mission and Ministry, the Alumni Association held an Alumni Memorial Mass. University President Kevin Wm. Wildes, S.J., and Chancellor Emeritus James Carter, S.J., celebrated the

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 26-31 2/3/10 9:46 AM Page 7

Texas; prepared meals and bags of supplies for homeless at the Las Vegas Rescue Mission; participated in the United Way of Greater Los Angeles Home Walk; assisted Raleigh, N.C., students with college and career planning; landscaped, painted, and organized Pathways to Care in Casselberry, Fla.; and assisted senior citizens with an art project at the Armed Forces Retirement Home in Washington, D.C. Two additional events were planned at the Lafayette Catholic Service Centers in Lafayette, La., and at the Sallie House, a home for children awaiting placement with foster families in Tampa, Fla.

Chicago alumni sorted food at the Greater Chicago Food Depository for Wolves on the Prowl in November.

New Services Finally, support for Loyola comes in many forms—from donations and government grants to volunteer activities and advocacy. While much of this support is direct, members of the Alumni Association support Loyola indirectly by engaging one of

their affinity partners. For years, alumni have supported Loyola scholarships through their use of the Bank of America affinity credit card. The Alumni Association has recently teamed up with Marsh CampusConnexions to offer carefully selected insurance programs from some of the

Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

nation’s leading insurance carriers, which are designed to meet a variety of needs at various stages of life. Marsh Campus-Connexions is well known for providing a competitive advantage in the marketing and servicing of alumni association insurance programs that will benefit new graduates, alumni, and their family members. These cost-effective financial solutions can be an ideal answer for t h e s e l f - e m p l o y e d e n t r e p r e n e u r. . . o r a smart way to fill the gaps in an employer benefit program. For more information on any of the Alumni Association’s programs, events, and services, call (504) 861-5454, 800-798-ALUM, or visit alumni.loyno.edu

Spring10 32-35 2/3/10 9:59 AM Page 2

Thinking Critically, Acting Justly Students taught Jesuit values through First-Year Seminars As part of its mission to educate the whole person, feedback so far indicates great enthusiasm for the Loyola University New Orleans has implemented a seminars among students and faculty alike,” says Dr. program of First-Year Seminars for all first-year Melanie McKay, vice provost for faculty students. The seminars are special-topics courses affairs. “They love the topical approach to subject conducted by leading Loyola faculty. All are small matter, which brings in perspectives of different disciplines. And classes grounded in many of the courses an interdisciplinary put values into approach to action through knowledge and an service learning, exploration of volunteer projects, values through the and civic engageprism of the ment.” overarching And the projects theme, “thinking the students are critically, acting focusing on are justly.” T h e y equally diverse. provide unique For Designing classroom expeYOUR Life, taught riences, as well as Designing YOUR Life students helped redesign the Gert Town b y Associate c o - c u r r i c u l a r Community Center. Professor of events, field trips, Graphic Design Daniela Marx, students toured the dinners, films, and other social gatherings. All first-year students are taking a seminar this low-income Gert Town neighborhood, which is still academic year, either in fall 2009 or spring 2010. The in the rebuilding process since Hurricane Katrina. courses cover a broad spectrum, ranging from They then designed a logo for the Gert Town American Health Care, taught by University Community Center, created and installed signage, President Kevin Wm. Wildes, S.J., to Medieval produced a flyer about the center and its services, Monsters, American Heroes, Rebuilding New coordinated a display of the center’s existing Orleans, and Social Justice and The Wire. information and resources, and developed a plan to With such a diverse selection of seminars, the redesign the main room of the community center to results have been positive across the board. “The give it a more comfortable, welcoming atmosphere

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 32-35 2/3/10 9:59 AM Page 3

for center particifrom exonerated pants of all ages. ex-inmates, Students defense attorneys, enrolled in the a criminal court Crescent City judge, and an FBI People seminar, expert on false taught by Professor confessions. But of History Mark service learning Fernandez, created was the key. an oral history “The centerpiece project for St. of this course is the John the Baptist service learning Community requirement,” Protest and Pop Music students taught Sojourner Truth charter school Center with video students about the role of music in highlighting issues in society. explains Perlstein. interviews. The “The topic of students produced an hour-long collage of the wrongful convictions is compelling on paper, but recordings, which will be screened at the center’s confronting the problem in the real world can be upcoming 40th anniversary celebration. downright harrowing and, hopefully for the students, For Innocence Behind Bars, taught by Visiting transformative. Even as first-semester freshmen, the Assistant Professor of Mass Communication Michael students will find themselves making a profound Perlstein, students volunteered at one of several difference in people’s lives.” criminal justice agencies that work to free the innoStudents are certainly seeing beneficial results cent or help their transition back into society upon from the seminars. “The Rebuilding New Orleans exoneration. The seminar also included field trips to class with Dr. Burns exceeded my expectations,” says New Orleans Criminal Court and the Public Maria F. Solis-Zavala. “Not only am I now a better Defender’s office, as well as guest speakers ranging writer and researcher, but I believe learning so

Fall 2009 First-Year Seminars: Protest and Pop Music Truth, Lies & Literature American Dreams Crescent City People Creole Crossroads Creating Medieval Monsters Innocence Behind Bars American Health Care Rebuilding New Orleans Politics and Community Brain and Behavior Social Justice and The Wire Performing Activism Designing YOUR Life Political Consultant Mary Matalin spoke to American Health Care: Justice for All? students.

Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

Spring10 32-35 2/10/10 1:54 PM Page 4

much about the And the faculty effects Katrina themselves are had on New leaving quite an Orleans and just impact. “Professor about the city in Bell was a great general is lecturer, very extremely useful. knowledgeable in We are all part of his field, and the New Orleans always got me to community now, think and quesand taking this tion,” notes Elliot class has made us Downey, who more informed was enrolled in and responsible Designing YOUR Life students toured the low-income Gert Town Protest and Pop neighborhood. about the city.” Music. “The Jesuits tell us to think critically and With such positive responses, the First-Year to promote social justice, and this class does Seminars are sure to be a staple for all future both,” notes Chad Landrum of the Medieval incoming students. And according to McKay, Monsters seminar. “It shows us medieval per- the program will only get better. “We’re already secution, and by comparison, our class has building on this year’s success as we design a been able to expose modern persecution, and more comprehensive First-Year Experience point out the small things that build up into program for next year.” the large human rights violations (such as the For more information, visit Holocaust). By knowing w h a t l e a d s t o www.loyno.edu/fye/seminars.html persecution we can learn how to stop it.”

Spring 2010 First-Year Seminars: Protest and Pop Music Banned Books Politics & Reel Life New Orleans: Home of the Muse Social Equality through Ms. Jennifer Jeanfreau Thinking Space American Heroes Creole Crossroads Picturing the City Love, Death & Opera Diversity in America Protest & Propaganda Protest and Pop Music students showed Sojourner Truth charter school students how music can make a difference in peoples’ lives.

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 32-35 2/3/10 9:59 AM Page 5

Welcome to our New Loyola Faculty (2009 – 2010) College of Business Mehmet Dicle, Ph.D., Financial Economics, University of New Orleans David L. Luechauer, Ph.D., Organizational Behavior and Social Psychology, University of Cincinnati Len J. Treviño, Ph.D., International Business, Indiana University Xue Wang, Ph.D., Finance, Binghamton University

College of Humanities and Natural Sciences

Imre Szalai, J.D., Columbia University School of Law Robert F. Weber, J.D., University of Michigan Law School

College of Music and Fine Arts Joy L. Allen, Ph.D., Music Therapy, ABD, Temple University Donald R. Boomgaarden, Ph.D., Musicology, Eastman School of Music, University of Rochester William T. O’Connell, B.F.A., Tisch School of the Arts, New York University Robert Rainey, M.M., New England Conservatory Nicholas Volz, D.M.A., Brass Pedagogy & Literature, Indiana University

Jon L. Altschul, Ph.D., Philosophy, University of California, Santa Barbara Teresa D. Bednarz, Ph.D., Biblical Studies, Brite Divinity School, Texas Christian University The Rev. Michael A. Bouzigard, S.J., Ph.D., International Development, University of Oxford, England Charles W. Cannon, Ph.D., English, University of Illinois, Chicago Hillary C. Eklund, Ph.D., English, Duke University Katherine G. Fidler, ABD, History, Emory University Julie D. Gauthier, Ph.D., Molecular Biology, University of Maryland Virginia A. Hoffman, Ph.D., Neuroscience, Yale University Ana-Maria Matei, Ph.D., Mathematics, University of Tours Hoyt Meyer, Ph.D., Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley Kimberlee S. Mix, Ph.D., Biochemistry, Dartmouth College Justin A. Nystrom, Ph.D., History, University of Georgia Uriel Quesada, Ph.D., Spanish American Literature, Tulane University Kevin Rabalais, Ph.D., Creative Media, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology Lori F. Ranner, M.A., Philosophy, Byzantine Studies, University of Oxford Christopher S. Schaberg, Ph.D., English, University of California at Davis Vincent P. Stretch, Ph.D., Experimental Psychology, University of California San Diego Jonathan S. Tenney, Ph.D., Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations, University of Chicago

Sean A. Cain, Ph.D., Political Science, University of California, San Diego Yolanda R. Cal, Ph.D., Advertising, University of Texas, Austin Anna A. Chavez, M.A., Theology, Catholic Theological Union Cynthia R. Collins, Ph.D., Nursing, The Catholic University Debra B. Copeland, Ph.D., Nursing, Louisiana State University Medical Center Sonya Duhé, Ph.D., Journalism, University of Missouri, Columbia Timothy F. Dwyer, Ph.D., Marriage & Family Therapy, Purdue University Christine H. Ebrahim, Ph.D., Counselor Education, University of New Orleans Mary C. Foley, M.S., Nursing, Loyola University New Orleans Thomas W. Foster, Ph.D., in Counselor Education & Supervision, Kent State University Cynthia M. Garza, Ph.D., Latin American Studies and Cultural Anthropology and Performance, Tulane University The Rev. Thomas P. Greene, S.J., J.D., Loyola University New Orleans School of Law Alfred C. Kammer, J.D., Yale University School of Law Vincenzo A. Sainato, Ph.D., Criminal Justice, John Jay College of Criminal Justice S. Rae Taylor, Ph.D., Sociology, University of Central Florida

College of Law

University Libraries

Hiroko Kusuda, J.D., Tulane University School of Law Craig R. Senn, J.D., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Law Karen Sokol, J.D., Yale University School of Law JoAnne Sweeny, J.D., University of California, Ph.D., Law, Queen Mary University of London

Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

College of Social Sciences

Elizabeth Cashman, M.L.I.S., Library Science & Information Studies, McGill University Brian Sullivan, M.L.S., Library Science, Indiana University Malia Willey, M.L.S., Library Science, Indiana University

Spring10 36-37 2/3/10 10:01 AM Page 2

LOYOLA IN PRINT

Maurice Blondel, Social Catholicism & Action Française: The Clash over the Church’s Role in Society during the Modernist Era The Book: How does the church realize its public mission? How do different theological and philosophical commitments influence the conception of the church’s role in the public square? This work casts light on contemporary arguments over social Catholicism and the believer’s role in society by illuminating a similar dispute among French Catholics during the Modernist Crisis (1909 – 1914). Bernardi’s study presents a thorough exposition and analysis of this significant controversy. The Author: The Rev. Peter J. Bernardi, S.J., Ph.D., is an associate professor in Loyola’s Department of Religious Studies. His research interests include Modernism, the theological renewal that prepared for Vatican II, christology, and the meaning of salvation (soteriology). Available through www.amazon.com and www.barnesandnoble.com

Faculty / Staff / Alumni Books

Wolf River: A Boyhood Memoir The Book: Rick Gutknecht self-published a 245-page boyhood memoir, Wolf River, writing that, “Most of us spend our lifetimes searching for truth, love, hope, and joy—and the marvelous Source of these gifts. This is the beginning of one search, and a love song to the southern Mississippi land of my roots, and the beautiful river that flows through it.” The Author: Rick Gutknecht ’53 served in publication and promotion management with Freeport Sulphur in New Orleans, La., and Hallmark Cards of Kansas City, Mo. He wrote three suspense novels and has begun a fourth, all set or originating in the author’s familiar Gulf Coast locale. He lives in Prairie Village, Kan. Available through www.barnesandnoble.com

Clinical Massage in the Healthcare Setting The Book: Covering advanced massage therapy skills, this practical resource prepares you to work with medical professionals in a clinical setting, such as a hospital, hospice, long-term care, or other health-related practice. It discusses the many skills you need to succeed in this environment, helping you become a contributing member of an integrated team. Also covered are the essentials of clinical massage, such as indications and contraindications, review of massage methods, range of motion testing, SOAP note documentation, and a massage therapy general protocol. Case studies show how a multidisciplinary approach applies to real-world clients. The Author: Glenn M. Hymel, Ed.D., L.M.T., professor of psychology and former chair, is currently in his 35th year on Loyola’s faculty. His principal areas of specialization include educational psychology, research methods and statistics, and the complementary/ integrative medicine aspects of health psychology. Available through www.amazon.com and www.barnesandnoble.com

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 36-37 2/3/10 10:01 AM Page 3

Interrogating the Image: Movies and the World of Film and Television The Book: Interrogating the Image argues that movies examining the role film and television plays in the lives of their audience have created changes both in the movies themselves and in their viewers, and considers 14 films where the moving picture is central to the narratives. Three films discussed—The Purple Rose of Cairo, Pleasantville, and The Truman Show—offer frame-breaking experiences for their characters that allow spectators to appreciate the ruptures between lived reality and media-play, delivering therapeutic payoffs that can be restorative, reconstructive, or rejective. Other examples come from the worlds of cinema (The Majestic, Matinee, Cinema Paradiso), television (Bamboozled, Network, Natural Born Killers, Medium Cool), and the sociopolitical realm where media dominates (Being There, Wag the Dog, Bob Roberts, Bulworth). The Author: Del Jacobs ’75 is a documentary filmmaker and professor of film and media studies at State College of Florida, where his explorations in film history have focused on spectatorship and genre study. He is the author of Revisioning Film Traditions: The PseudoDocumentary and the NeoWestern.

Almost Silenced The Book: Carisa Páez Velloso travels with her daughter to London at the behest of the family of her six-year-old child’s father. What seemed a genial invitation turns into a nightmare, and Carisa finds herself embroiled in a fight against English nobility and laws written in their favor. A chance meeting with widower Max DiSanto, advocate of law, brings hope of retaining custody of her deaf daughter. The case Max and Carisa set out to win engages more than written law, as sparks ignite within their damaged, unwilling hearts. The Author: Isabel Mere (aka Polly McCrillis ’80) firmly believes that playing in the dirt is nature’s counselor, walking in another’s moccasins keeps a person humble, wading in public fountains should be universal law, and never is it wise to disregard the inner voice telling her to call someone. She lives with her husband in the southwest Ozarks of Missouri. Available through www.amazon.com and www.barnesandnoble.com

Tinsel: A Search for America’s Christmas Present The Book: In Tinsel, Hank Stuever turns his unerring eye for the idiosyncrasies of modern life in Frisco, Texas—a suburb at once allAmerican and completely itself—to tell the story of the nation’s most over-the-top celebration: Christmas. Stuever follows three of Frisco’s true holiday believers as they navigate through the Nativity and its attendant crises. Tinsel is a compelling tale of our half-trilliondollar holiday, measuring what we’ve become against the ancient rituals of what we’ve always been. The Author: Hank Stuever ’90 is an award-winning pop culture writer for the Washington Post’s Style section. He is the author of Off Ramp, an essay collection, and has appeared on Today, The View, The Early Show, and National Public Radio. He lives in Washington, D.C. Available through www.amazon.com and www.barnesandnoble.com

Available through www.amazon.com and www.barnesandnoble.com Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

Spring10 38-39 2/10/10 1:52 PM Page 2

Amarena Diaz ’06, Michelle Clarke ’06, Valerie Bernard ’06, Dana Paternostro ’02, (back row) Nick Payne, and President of the Young Alumni Board Leigh Thorpe ’03

Joe ’70, J.D. ’74 and Linda ’70 Pappalardo

Young Alumni Night at Rock n’ Bowl Strike up great conversation and reconnect with friends! That is exactly what 40 members of the Loyola Young Alumni Pack did on July 31 as they gathered for the perfect mix of bowling, socializing, and music. They had a ball at Rock n’ Bowl, an authentic New Orleans treasure located in the heart of Mid-City! This event also served as a great philanthropic opportunity. Each person brought school supplies, which were later distributed to Loyola alumni who teach in the public school system.

Loyola in Linen: A White Linen Night Affair Loyola in Linen was a hugely successful social event tied in with White Linen Night, a New Orleans summer tradition that offered an evening of amazing art, great music, and famous cuisine. More than 200 alumni, family, and friends enjoyed a cool relaxing reception at the Renaissance Arts Hotel on August 1 following their Julia Street stroll through the New Orleans Warehouse/Arts District.

Annual Houston Alumni Brunch Alumni and friends from the Houston Alumni Chapter toasted to a successful brunch on November 15 at the Backstreet Café. All of the guests enjoyed the opportunity to meet with one another for this annual chapter event. Parker Bigley ’95, Houston chapter president, and Robert Gross, director of planned giving, were pleased to meet with alumni and exchange favorite stories.

10th Annual Wolves on the Prowl On November 7, more than 500 Loyola students, alumni, and friends participated in service projects for the 10th Annual Wolves on the Prowl, Loyola’s National Day of Community Service. In the Jesuit tradition, Loyola strives to develop individuals who dedicate their lives to service for others. Alumni in 12 chapter cities rolled up their sleeves for various charities. These service projects are great ways for alumni to stay involved and contribute to Loyola’s mission to develop individuals who dedicate their lives to service for others.

Alumni enjoyed the Annual Houston Brunch!

Los Angeles Chapter President Norma Miranda ’06, Jimmie Bany, Flefil Mireya Sanchez, and Anthony Garrison-Engbrecht ’07

Spring10 38-39 2/3/10 10:03 AM Page 3

Laura LaBauve-Maher ’90, Chicago Chapter President Stacey O’Malley ’89, 2008 scholarship winner Kyle Vogt, and 2009 scholarship winner/incoming freshman Jeanine Sims

Ernesto and Tere ’99 Acosta, Ed ’94 and Kelly Claughton, and Mari Novo ’98

Chicago Summer Send-off Barbecue The Chicago Alumni Chapter sizzled with a successful summer send-off party for all of the Chicago-area incoming freshmen on August 9. Board of Trustees Member Kevin Poorman and his wife, Jeanne, graciously opened their home and prepared a delicious barbecue on their top-ranked outdoor kitchen. More than 50 alumni, family, and friends feasted while enjoying the beautiful backyard surroundings.

Miami Alumni Happy Hour John Martin’s Irish Pub was the scene for a fun Miami social gathering on October 17. This happy hour allowed alumni and friends of the Miami Alumni Chapter to reconnect with one another while enjoying good company, spirits, and hors d’ouerves.

Northshore Alumni Cocktail and Dinner Party The Northshore Alumni Chapter celebrated the season with a holiday cocktail and dinner party at the award-winning LOLA restaurant on December 4. Guests enjoyed outstanding Louisiana cuisine along with live jazz music provided by Loyola musicians. Dean Donald Boomgaarden from the College of Music and Fine Arts attended the event and presented a brief college update to alumni and friends. Hats off to Elizabeth Manshel ’89, Northshore chapter president, for planning such a nice event!

Singing with Santa Santa and Mrs. Claus made an early Christmas visit to Loyola’s campus on December 6. Nearly 100 alumni, family, friends, faculty, and staff enjoyed a festive afternoon in the St. Charles Room of the Danna Student Center. A dazzling Christmas tree, giant nutcrackers, colorful arched-balloons, and of course, Santa’s shiny red sleigh all set the mood for this fun-filled day!

Northshore Chapter President Elizabeth Manshel ’89, Harry Bruns ’84, (seated left to right) Jennifer Traina ’88, Amy and Wayne Aufrecht ’94, J.D. ’97, Anna Wong ’06, and Richard Traina, J.D. ’92

The Frank Oliveri, III ’77 Family

Spring10 40-49 2/4/10 8:56 AM Page 2

College of Business

Where Do I Fit In? Life can be confusing. Figuring out which Loyola University New Orleans college you belong to shouldn’t be. Just look for your former major to see where you now belong. College of Business Accounting Economics Finance International Business Management Marketing Business of Music M.B.A.

College of Humanities and Natural Sciences Biological Sciences Chemistry Classical Studies Computer Information Systems Computer Science Dental Hygiene Dentistry English General Studies History Humanities Mathematics Modern Foreign Languages Philosophy Pharmacy Physics Pre-professional Programs: Pre-dentistry Pre-engineering Pre-law Pre-medicine Pre-veterinary Psychology Reading Religious Studies

College of Law Civil Law Common Law LL.M.

College of Music and Fine Arts Dance Drama Drama/Communications Graphic Arts Jazz Studies Music Composition Music Education Music Industry Studies Music Therapy Performance Piano Pedagogy Theatre Arts Visual Arts

College of Social Sciences Applied Science Commercial Science Communications: Advertising Broadcast Journalism Broadcast Production Communications Studies Film Studies Photojournalism Print Journalism Public Relations Counseling Criminal Justice Economics (non-business) Education Liberal Studies Political Science Nursing Sociology Loyola Institute for Ministry (LIM)

1960s Albert S. Pappalardo ’64, CRE, president, Pappalardo Consultants, Inc., New Orleans, La., was awarded the 2009 Committee Service Award by The Counselors of Real Estate (CRE) at its Annual Convention in October 2009 in New Orleans. The honor recognizes Albert’s long-term dedication to CRE committee service.

1980s Tod A. Smith ’84 was promoted to president and general manager of WVECTV in Hampton/Norfolk, Va.

Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (“FACDL”) Board of Directors as a director at large, and he was named co-chair of the Palm Beach County Bar Association (PBCBA) Diversity Task Force. Rhett F Bailey ’94, M.B.A. ’95 works as a project manager for Entergy Services, Inc., in New Orleans, La. In 2007, Rhett created Boba-rett Productions, Inc., an independent pop music label. He recorded, produced, and marketed his third rock album for the New Orleans-based “Snuff Film Fest” project.

2000s Blake Escudier ’87, M.B.A. ’93 is teaching MBA marketing courses online for Kaplan University of the U.S. and Lansbridge University of Canada. He has also become a certified small business mentor in Melbourne, Australia.

1990s John M. Howe ’94, founding attorney of the Law Offices of John M. Howe in West Palm Beach, Fla., was elected to a second, two-year term on the Palm Beach County Bar Association Board of Directors. He also was reelected to the Florida

Stephanie Bernard ’05, New Orleans, La., was a featured chef on the Food Network TV show “Chef vs. City” in September 2009. Mike Lloyd ’05, Cambridge, Mass., is in his third year at Harvard Law School. Greg Fontenot ’09 has embarked on a year of fulltime volunteer service with Jesuit Volunteer Corps (JVC) Northwest. His year kicked off with a weeklong orientation at Camp Adams in Molalla, Ore., and will continue through August 2010.

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 40-49 2/4/10 8:56 AM Page 3

College of Humanities and Natural Sciences 1960s Gaye Saucier Farris ’64, Carencro, La., retired as information and technology branch chief of the U.S. Geological Survey’s National Wetlands Research Center. Gaye worked for the center for 29 years, 26 as a federal employee and three as a Louisiana Geological Survey employee on loan to the center. In that time, she was a technical editor, a supervisory technical information specialist, and acting assistant director in 1988 and 2007 – 09. John M. Famularo ’68, a member of Stites & Harbison, P.L.L.C., Lexington, Ky., was elected as a regent of The American College of Trial Lawyers (ACTL) Board. He represents Region IX, which consists of Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, and Michigan for a four-year term. Connie Regan-Blake ’69, Asheville, N.C., has a CD with a new look! Originally issued as “Spirits Walk,” it is a collection of haunting and downright scary stories that reflect the heritage of the British Isles and the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Now “Chilling Ghost Stories” is also available in a new format as a digital download card (www.storywindow.com).

Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

1970s Sean O’Keefe ’77 was named chief executive of The European Aeronautic Defence and Space Co.’s North American subsidiary.

1980s Fernando Figueroa ’86, Corpus Christi, Texas, dean of university studies at Tyler Junior College, was named provost and vice president of instruction at Del Mar College. Daniel Bradley ’87, after 14 years as a prosecutor, opened up his own legal practice in Houston, Texas. He is board certified in criminal law, has taught trial skills, edited and contributed to several books on criminal law, and is enjoying the flexibility of selfemployment. Dan and his wife, Kim, have two young girls who teach them lessons in humility daily. They have attended Jazz Fest annually since 1992. Darrin Rankin ’87 was named vice president for student affairs and enrollment management at Marygrove College in Detroit, Mich.

er. He focuses on the biotech, electronics, pharmaceutical, consumer products, and personal care markets.

2000s Fergus Tuohy ’00, a financial advisor with Ameriprise Financial in Birmingham, Ala., achieved the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM certification. Fergus successfully completed the rigorous requirements that include course work and a series of examinations covering the financial planning process, risk management, investments, tax planning and management, retirement and employee benefits, and estate planning. Jason Bolte ’05, Cincinnati, Ohio, lived in Point Pleasant, W. Va., for a year and worked on promoting tourism for all of Mason County. During his tenure at the Mason County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, he wrote his first book for Arcadia Publishing, Images of America: Point Pleasant. All proceeds from that book went directly to Mason County to help promote tourism.

1990s John Caine ’97 joined plastic injection molder Permian Plastics in O’Fallon, Mo., as territory sales manag-

Christopher Lupton ’05, New Orleans, La., is participating in the 2009 Japan Exchange Teaching program.

Matthew Thiel ’07 is one of 33 WorldTeach volunteers in American Samoa, participating with classes, seminars, and presentations on Samoan culture, classroom management, and teaching strategies to aid in educating the territory’s youth. William Horne ’08 married Laura Post ’07 in July 2009. The couple resides in New Orleans, La. Bill is a history and religion teacher at De La Salle High School, and Laura is communications coordinator at Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine.

We would love to hear your comments and suggestions about our magazine.

Please write or e-mail us at LUNOM 7214 St. Charles Ave. Box 909 New Orleans, LA 70118 rwillhof@loyno.edu 41

Spring10 40-49 2/4/10 8:56 AM Page 4

College of Law 1960s Charles C. Foti, Jr., J.D. ’65, former Louisiana attorney general, joined New Orleans law firm Kahn Swick & Foti, L.L.C. (KSF), as a named partner. Charles will continue his work with KSF’s securities and consumer fraud practice groups, including KSF’s institutional client base.

1970s The Hon. James McKay, III, J.D. ’74, New Orleans, La., was elected president of the American Judges Association at its annual meeting in September 2009.

1980s Elwood F. Cahill, Jr., J.D. ’80, of Sher Garner Cahill Richter Klein & Hilbert, L.L.C., in New Orleans, La., was named to The Best Lawyers in America 2010 for Real Estate Law.

The Hon. Louis J. Volz, III, J.D. ’80, received a lifetime appointment as a federal administrative law judge with the Social Security Administration, Office of Disability Adjudication and Review,

in 2008, and was assigned to the Metairie, La., office. In August 2009, he accepted a transfer to the New Orleans, La., office. Marguerite L. Adams, J.D. ’81, of Liskow & Lewis, New Orleans, La., was named to The Best Lawyers in America 2010 for Real Estate Law and Trusts & Estates Law. Paul O. Dicharry ’69, J.D. ’81, of Taylor Porter, Baton Rouge, La., was selected for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America 2010. David W. Leefe, J.D. ’82, of Liskow & Lewis, New Orleans, La., was named to The Best Lawyers in America 2010 for Maritime Law and Personal Injury Litigation. Daniel Abel, J.D. ’83 is co-owned of Trout Point Lodge (www.troutpoint.com), located on the southern peninsula of Nova Scotia, which is “a resort in the north woods that combines culinary, backwoods and nature, and Acadian French cultural tourism.” The lodge was one of 10 finalists for the Ashoka Geotourism Challenge 2009.

Robert S. Angelico, J.D. ’86, of Liskow & Lewis, New Orleans, La., was named to The Best Lawyers in America 2010 for Tax Law. Magdalen Blessey Bickford ’83, J.D. ’86 joined the New Orleans, La., office of Jackson Lewis, L.L.P., as a partner. Philip Greene, J.D. ’86, Washington, D.C., left the Department of Commerce and joined the Department of the Navy’s Office of the General Counsel, where he is the new Trademark Counsel to the U.S. Marine Corps, located at the Pentagon. Dan Claitor, J.D. ’87, Baton Rouge, La., was elected to the Louisiana Legislature as senator for District 16. James C. Exnicios, J.D. ’87, of Liskow & Lewis, New Orleans, La., was named to The Best Lawyers in America 2010 for Tax Law. Jeffrey Burgan, J.D. ’89 joined the Board of Trustees for Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology. He also is chairing the search committee to find the next

president of Rose-Hulman.

1990s Thomas Ganucheau, J.D. ’91, partner with Beck, Redden & Secrest, L.L.P., in Houston, Texas, was elected to the Executive Committee of the Texas Association of Defense Counsel (TADC) as its 2009 – 2010 executive vice president and will assume the position of TADC president in 2011 – 2012. Patricia Lynch Franklin, J.D. ’92 joined the national law firm of Hinshaw & Culbertson, L.L.P., as a partner in its Miami, Fla., office. Patrick Yancey, J.D. ’94, Houma, La., became a member of the Louisiana Bar Foundation, which helps provides free legal services to people across Louisiana. Michael E. O’Brien, D.D.S. ’70, J.D. ’98, Slidell, La., associate professor and director of predoctoral studies in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans School of Dentistry,

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 40-49 2/4/10 8:56 AM Page 5

College of Law (continued) received the 2009 Daniel M. Laskin Award from the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Maurice A. Brungardt ’94, J.D. ’97 is employed by the U.S. Department of State and is currently assigned to Washington, D.C. In addition to a variety of temporary duty assignments, he was previously posted domestically to San Juan, Puerto Rico, and overseas to Kampala, Uganda. Michael J. Barker, J.D. ’99 is a partner with

Hinshaw & Culbertson, L.L.P., in its Jacksonville, Fla., office.

2000s A. Kevin Troutman, J.D. ’01, a partner in the Houston, Texas, office of Fisher & Phillips, L.L.P., was named chair of the firm’s national Healthcare Practice Group. Shaune Pierre Bordere, J.D. ’03 served as the Dallas Regional Equal Employment Opportunity Counselor for Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi to more than 75,000 U.S. Decennial Census man-

agers, supervisors, professionals, and staff. Shaune was solely responsible for resolution, training, and administration of EEO and other labor complaints. Timothy M. Bourcier, J.D. ’06, AICP, senior planner with Davis, Bowen & Friedel, Inc., Annapolis, Md., was selected to receive the 2009 award for “Outstanding Planner” by the Maryland Chapter of the American Planning Association. Michelle Anderson, J.D. ’07, an associate with Fisher & Phillips, L.L.P.,

moved from the Tampa, Fla., office to the New Orleans, La., office. Janel Glynn ’04, J.D. ’07 joined Gallagher & Kennedy, P.A., a full service business law firm based in Phoenix, Ariz., as an associate. Elisa C. Mills, J.D. ’08, associate of Schonekas, Winsberg, Evans & McGoey, L.L.C, in New Orleans, La., was recognized by Cambridge Who’s Who for demonstrating dedication, leadership, and excellence in commercial litigation.

Wolf Pups Aaron Bankson ’00 and Heather Arnett ’01 welcomed a son, Ian Patrick, on October 7, 2009. Anne Bannerman Flanegan, J.D. ’01 and her husband, Tim, welcomed a daughter, Parker Grace, on June 2, 2009. Parker was born healthy and happy, weighing in at 7.2lbs and 21 inches long. Erin Denison Guilbeault ’01 married Ken Guilbeault in October 2004, and they welcomed their first child, Alexa Rose Guilbeault, on September 27, 2009. The family resides in Tampa, Fla. Mary Margaret Jetton Jacobs ’02 and her

Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

husband, Joshua Jacobs, welcomed baby Lillian Marie into their family on February 19, 2009, and are expecting their fourth child in April 2010. Cindy Huber McCrossen ’94 and her husband, John, welcomed Ellie Grace into their family on April 17, 2009. Big brothers are Hunter, 7, and Connor, 5. The family resides in LaPlace, La., where John is an OB/GYN at River Parishes Hospital. Amanda, M.S. ’97 and John Redmann ’86, J.D. ’89, welcomed their first child, John William Redmann, Jr., weighing 7lbs 15.3 oz, 18 1/4" in length, in September 2009.

Spring10 40-49 2/4/10 8:56 AM Page 6

College of Law (continued) Thena Robinson, J.D. ’08, New Orleans, La., an attorney for the Southern Poverty Law Center’s School-to-Prison Reform Project, was named to Gambit’s annual “40 Under 40” list. Byron R. Arthur ’89, J.D. ’09 is an associate attorney in the New Orleans, La., office of Kean Miller. He practices in the environmental, energy, and corporate litigation practice groups.

William M. Burst, J.D. ’09 is an associate attorney in the New Orleans, La., office of Kean Miller. He practices in the admiralty and maritime, energy, and corporate litigation practice groups. Tod Everage, J.D. ’09 joined McGlinchey Stafford’s New Orleans, La., office and practices in the commercial litigation section of the firm.

Allison Goertz, J.D. ’09 joined the New Orleans, La., law firm Galloway, Johnson, Tompkins, Burr & Smith, P.L.C. Amanda L. Howard ’03, J.D. ’09 is an associate attorney in the New Orleans, La., office of Kean Miller. She practices in the admiralty and maritime, energy, and corporate litigation practice groups.

Anthony Marchese, J.D. ’09 joined McGlinchey Stafford’s New Orleans, La., office and practices in the consumer financial services and commercial litigation sections of the firm. Seth J. Smiley, J.D. ’09 joined the Wolfe Law Group in New Orleans, La., as an associate attorney.

College of Music and Fine Arts 1990s Eric Ladwig ’98, Dallas, Texas, has a novel in ebook form called Dry Days (a fantasy) that was published on a website called internationalagora.com Jefferson Turner ’99, New Orleans, La., musi-

cal director for musicals and cabaret and musical theater teacher for the New Orleans Center for the Creative Arts, was named to Gambit’s annual “40 Under 40” list.

2000s Aaron Bankson ’00

and Heather Arnett ’01 were married on January 5, 2002. Aaron served in the Marine Corps for six years including both Enlisted and Officer ranks and completed two tours to Iraq. Aaron is currently the shipping and receiving area leader

for New Belgium Brewing. After working in adult and family literacy in California and Tulsa, Okla., Heather completed a master of library and information science degree from the University of Southern Mississippi in December 2009. The

Mark Your Calendar! • 2010 Alumni Weekend • May 7 – 9, 2010 Celebration of Milestone Reunions Classes 1960, ’65, ’70, ’75, ’80, ’85, ’90, ’95, ’00 & ’05 Senior Crawfish Boil • Golden Wolves Induction Ceremony Maroon and Gold Gala • Alumni Mass • Jazz Brunch alumni.loyno.edu

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 40-49 2/4/10 8:57 AM Page 7

College of Music and Fine Arts (continued) Banksons welcomed a son, Ian Patrick, on October 7, 2009, and now reside in Fort Collins, Colo. Patricia Sills Bernstein ’00 (www.muffinsills.com), New Orleans, La., had a solo show which opened on January 2 at the Big Top/Three Ring Circus Gallery on Clio St. in New Orleans. She got married on December 20, 2008. Her husband is a local musician with a new CD, “Songs from the Tree

of Life.” They also have an animation on YouTube for one of his songs, “Black Santa.” Patricia is an adjunct teacher at wherever she can land classes.

pursuing her master’s degree at St. Andrews, majoring in management in the creative industries. For the past nine years, she has played harp professionally.

English, American culture, and history in secondary school. She has become quite an expert at “Skypeing” from a cafe at one of the local villages after a 40 minute walk!

Meredith Arnold ’08 received a post-graduate music scholarship at St. Andrews University in Scotland, studying under the direction of harpist Iain Hood, known for his expertise in traditional Clàrsach (Celtic harp). Meredith is currently

Sara Melton ’09 is serving in the Peace Corps in a small village in Ukraine, and living with a local family. After “surviving” the swine flu, Ukraine border closing, and temporary school closings, she is now enjoying teaching

Rebecca Potter ’09, Halethorpe, Md., was selected by The John. F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts for its prestigious internship program last fall as part of the Kennedy Center Institute for Arts Management.

Guru Nanak Dev University in Amritsar, India.

Without Losing Your Soul.

College of Social Sciences 1960s M.J. Montgomery Jr. ’60, M.E. ’62, Metairie, La., celebrated 50 years of service to Ridgewood Preparatory School as a teacher and headmaster. Shirley Porter Washington ’64, New Orleans, La., author, has been recognized by Cambridge Who’s Who for showing dedication, leadership, and excellence. Sister Gertrude Levy ’62, M.E. ’67, celebrated her 90th birthday with friends and colleagues donating more than $2.3 million in her honor to Seton Medical

Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

Center Austin. Sr. Gertrude has served the patients, families, and associates of the Seton Family of Hospitals for more than 35 years and is the longest serving Daughters of Charity in Austin, Texas. She currently is a community ambassador at Seton Medical Center Austin and works nearly full time, visiting with patients and their families every day. She has no plans to retire.

1970s Dr. Sheri Melton ’71 was awarded a Fulbright-Nehru lecture-scholar grant to teach graduate classes in exercise physiology and nutrition at

Terry Fisher ’76 was promoted to associate vice president for marketing for Loyola. Jim Paratore ’76 is the executive producer of comedian George Lopez’ new talk show, “Lopez Tonight.”

1980s María Celeste Arrarás ’82, the host and managing editor of “Al Rojo Vivo con María Celeste” (“Red Hot Live with Maria Celeste”), produced by Telemundo/NBC, released a new book, Make Your Life Prime Time: How to Have It All

Robbie Vitrano ’85 was featured in The New York Times and in the August issue of Entrepreneur magazine for his work in stimulating small business development in New Orleans, La. Vitrano owns the branding, marketing, and public relations firm Trumpet. Lucy Herbers Unger ’86 was named to the Missouri and Kansas Super Lawyers 2009. A partner at the trial law firm of Williams Venker & Sanders in St. Louis, Mo., Lucy also serves as chair of the firm’s Management Committee.

Spring10 40-49 2/4/10 8:57 AM Page 8

College of Social Sciences (continued) Marlena “Marla” Lemus Donovan ’88, Kenner, La., was honored by the March of Dimes at the annual Signature Chefs Gala on Oct. 25, 2009, where she received the 2009 Freda Lupin Butterfly Award for outstanding contributions to her community. Lenny Vangilder ’88, Kenner, La., is the corporate sales manager for The Privateer Athletic Foundation, the fundraising arm of the University of New Orleans Athletics Department. Phyllis Verrone ’88 graduated from Argosy University in Sarasota with a doctorate in instructional leadership. She will continue teaching at the

elementary school level but will now also be teaching teachers online. Kim Holden ’89, New Orleans, La., is co-anchor of the FOX 8 Morning News, a 3-hour show every weekday from 6 to 9 a.m. Mark Nosacka ’89 is chief executive officer of Tenet’s Good Samaritan Medical Center in West Palm Beach, Fla. Jorge A. Riopedre, Jr. ’89, president of the board of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metropolitan St. Louis, was named executive director of the organization.

We Want To Hear From You! The Loyola University New Orleans Office of Alumni Relations is interested in alumni accomplishments and achievements, so please tell us about yourself. You can also update a new business or home address, e-mail, and phone number. Send info to: Loyola University Alumni Relations 7214 St. Charles Avenue, Box 909 New Orleans, LA 70118-3565 (504) 861-5454 • (800) 798-ALUM FAX (504) 861-5793 • alumni@loyno.edu or submit electronically at

alumni.loyno.edu Deadline for mention in the summer magazine is April 1.

1990s Chimene Grant Connor ’90, New Orleans, La., director of advertising and tourism marketing for the Audubon Nature Institute, was named one of the 10 Top Female Achievers by New Orleans Magazine. Mike Dabadie ’91 launched a new market research consultancy, Heart+Mind Strategies (heartandmindstrategies.com) in Washington, D.C. The firm is the reconstitution of Wirthlin, which served as the pollster to Ronald Reagan and many premier businesses. Along with three other partners, they have been recognized for marketing strategy on behalf of industries and clients including Las Vegas, got milk?, Visa, and the American Petroleum Institute. Mike is a graduate of Leadership Louisiana and served as pollster to several congressional officials and issue campaigns. Dr. James Breazile, M.R.E., Stillwater, Okla., was the recipient of a 2009 Regents Distinguished Teaching Award. James, a professor in the Department

of Physiological Sciences at The Oklahoma State University Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, teaches physiology to firstyear veterinary students. Jennifer Osborne Miller ’93, Covington, La., and her company, Osborne & Miller Stationary ( w w w. o s b o r n e a n d miller.com), were featured in the December 2009 issue of North Shore Report (www.neworleanscitybusiness.com). Amy Boyle Collins ’96, New Orleans, La., executive director of the Young Leadership Council, was named one of the 10 Top Female Achievers by New Orleans Magazine. Chantelle SargentPierre ’97, Steven Pierre ’96, and their two-year-old son, Winston, moved from New Orleans, La., to Los Angeles, Calif. Chantelle is the new director of admission for the Wildwood School. Steven continues his work in graphic design and front end web development under his company, P h e n o m e n o n (www.pheno.biz).

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 40-49 2/4/10 8:57 AM Page 9

College of Social Sciences (continued) 2000s Lionel Toyer ’00, New Orleans, La., is the operations manager for French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI), the organization that annually produces French Quarter Festival, Satchmo SummerFest, and Christmas New Orleans Style. L u i s R i v e r a ’ 0 1 , of Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A., in Fort Myers, Fla., was included in the 2009 Florida Rising Stars. Leslie Bourgeois ’02, Gretna, La., was promoted to contract specialist with the Department of Energy, Strategic Petroleum Reserve on April 12, 2009. Lucy Bustamante ’02, WWL-TV anchorwoman in

New Orleans, La., was chosen to co-host “Live with Regis and Kelly” during its “From Local to ‘Live!’ Co-host for a Day” promotion. Lucy was one of five female broadcasters from the show’s affiliates selected by viewers to share the stage with Regis Philbin during the week of August 17 – 21. Lucy kicked off the week with her turn in the chair on Monday, August 17. Mary Margaret Jetton Jacobs ’02 married Joshua Jacobs in May 2008. On February 19, 2009, Mary, her husband, and two stepsons, Josh, 8, and William, 7, welcomed baby Lillian Marie into their family. Lilly will be a big sister soon as they are expecting their fourth child in April 2010. Mary was a registered

nurse in the operating room but is now enjoying being at home for her children. Brian Azzarello’s ’05 article on strategic rebranding, titled “Rebranding for a New Generation,” was published in the 2009 edition of IMC Review: Journal of Integrated Marketing Communications, a nationally distributed peer-reviewed publication. He also graduated with an M.S. in integrated marketing communications from Roosevelt University in Chicago, Ill., in December. Jamie Ianelli ’05, New York, N.Y., is in his third year at Harvard Law School.

Jennifer La Rocca ’05 was named Honorary Consul of Panama in Miami, Fla., by the new president of Panama, Ricardo Martinelli. Rebecca RiveraVazquez, M.S. ’08 created and developed The Magis Foundation, Inc. (TMF), a Puerto Rico-based nonprofit organization that focuses on promoting healthy lifestyles through free-of-cost physical and mental health education. TMF is currently promoting the “We Can!” program from the U.S. Health Department, which has provided all of the physical health and nutrition information that has been combined to the mental health education program it offers.

• Photo courtesy of Scott E. Simon

Fashion Goes Green Lauren Beshel ’06 and her business partner, Thiri DeVoe, opened Branch Out Vintage & Sustainable Goods, a clothing boutique at 2022 Magazine Street the fall of 2009. Branch Out is New Orleans’ first and only all-sustainable clothing and accessory store for men and women. Branch Out carries a large variety of eco-friendly fashion forward clothing lines, hand selected quality vintage pieces, and locally made designer goods. Lauren’s mantra for the store is “hip not hippie!” She would like to help people be good to the Earth and look good doing it. www.branchoutshop.com Thiri DeVoe and Lauren Beshel ’06

Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

Spring10 40-49 2/4/10 8:57 AM Page 10

College of Social Sciences (continued) Although TMF is not a religious organization, its name, purpose, and mission were inspired by Jesuit traditions and philosophy as well as Rebecca’s experience at Loyola. TMF’s

motto is ad majorem ab imo pectore, and its mission is to empower people with knowledge that will enhance their lives and that of their loved ones. Its vision is a physically and

mentally healthy community. (www.volunteerspr.com) Kelly Rogers, M.S.N. ’08 is director of risk management at Orange Park Medical Center in

Orange Park, Fla. Kelly has obtained her certification in healthcare quality (CPHQ) and her certification in healthcare risk management (CPHRM).

Flying for a Cause By Sean Snyder For estate planning lawyer Larry Lehmann ’74, flying is more than a hobby, it is a mission. Lehmann has found ways to not only incorporate his passion into his law practice by maintaining clients throughout Louisiana, but also has found ways to use flying to give back to those in need. It was during his youth that Larry fell in love with the skies. He recalls a time when he and a few of his high school friends saved up enough money to skip school to take a 15-minute airplane tour of New Orleans. That trip was the beginning of a lifelong fascination with flying which would lead him

to become an instrument-rated pilot in 1982. In 2008, Larry became a founding member of Pilots for Patients, a nonprofit organization that assists medically stable patients throughout Louisiana with their medical travel needs. Pilots for Patients maintains more than 75 pilot volunteers who agree to donate use of their time, airplanes, and fuel for accepted missions. Since its first flight in 2008, the organization has conducted 416 air missions and 36 ground missions to cities such as Houston, St. Louis, and New Orleans. For more information on Pilots for Patients, visit www.pilotsforpatients.org

Larry Lehmann ’74

Loyola University New Orleans Magazine

Spring10 40-49 2/4/10 8:57 AM Page 11

CALENDAR OF EVENTS MARCH 3 7

Lenten Series Event Alumni Association Past President’s Reception 10 Walker Percy Center Launch 10 Lenten Series Event 16 Alumni Association Board Meeting 17 Lenten Series Event 18 Atlanta Faculty Programming with Sonya Duh´ e 20 Race Judicata 24 Lenten Series Event 26 College of Business Alumni Luncheon 26 Googling God Lecture TBD Central Florida Alumni Crawfish Boil

A Tribute to the Past By Catherine I. Koppel Gentilly, La., native Royd Anderson ’98 was just four years old when the deadliest ferry crash in U.S. history took place about 25 miles from his home. From his father’s stories, Royd learned of the October 1976 disaster, but, he says, “I was also aware that people from my generation don’t know a lot about it.” So, for his master’s thesis for film school at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Royd wrote and directed The Luling Ferry Disaster. Released on the

APRIL

30th anniversary of the crash, Royd incited a

1 7 17

movement in St. Charles Parish, La., to create a

John Biguenet Event in Orlando Loyola Alumni Night at the Hornets Wolfpack Baseball Family Day vs. LSUS TBD Atlanta Alumni Crawfish Boil TBD Houston Alumni Crawfish Boil

monument honoring the victims and survivors of the crash. The monument was dedicated on the banks of the Mississippi River three years later. Royd credits Loyola with giving him the tools to research and recount this and other under-reported

MAY 1 5–6 7 7 8 8 8 8

Austin Alumni Crawfish Boil Chapter Leadership Conference Senior Crawfish Boil University Baccalaureate Mass Unified Commencement Ceremony Golden Wolves Luncheon Reunion Class Dinners Alumni Weekend Maroon and Gold Gala 9 Annual Alumni Association Jazz Brunch 11 College of Law Graduation Mass 12 College of Law Commencement TBD Dallas Alumni Crawfish Boil TBD Las Vegas Alumni Crawfish Boil

tragedies in history—literally and figuratively. He spent “many months” at Loyola’s J. Edgar and Louise S. Monroe Library poring over microfilm detailing the George Prince ferry crash. “Writing a script and doing research was almost second nature, based on the solid foundation I got at Loyola,” Royd says. “Loyola encouraged me to develop my talents to the fullest, and use them to better humanity.”

JUNE 5 10 27

Chicago Alumni Crawfish Boil Law Alumni Cocktail Reception at LSBA Convention Dallas Alumni Day at the Rangers For more information, visit www.loyno.edu/calendar or call (504) 861-5454. Royd Anderson ’98

Spring 2010 www.loyno.edu

Spring10 50-51 2/3/10 10:10 AM Page 3

Spring10Cover_SummerCover 2/4/10 8:50 AM Page 2

OFFICE OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS 7214 St. Charles Avenue Campus Box 909 New Orleans, LA 70118-3565 Change Service Requested

Non-Profit Org. US Postage PAID Burlington, VT 05401 Permit no. 185