Mac14056 spring15alumnimagazine zmags digitalissue by Regis University

VOLUME 23 ISSUE 1 SPRING 2015

GOOD BUSINESS 18 New College of Business and Economics to build leaders of conscience.

6 NEW PERSPECTIVES

See things differently. How did Regis shape your ethical compass?

23 SEEDS OF CHANGE

What is healthy? Regis is broadening understanding in a promising new initiative.

33 WE REMEMBER

The University community celebrates the lasting legacy of Father David M. Clarke, S.J. REGIS.EDU/RMAGAZINE

REGIS UNIVERSITY

(facebook.com/regisuniversity) (linkedin.com/edu/regis-university-18005)

How has Regis helped you reach new heights?

THOMAS TONKIN, CPS ’09 I graduated with my master’s in Organizational Leadership: Leadership and Management. I have been able to pursue my dream of starting my own company and enjoying what life truly has to offer. My daughter also graduated with her master’s in education and my son will be starting his junior year this fall. Thank you, Regis.

JANELLE MARLIE LYSBETH CWIK, CPS ’09 I just landed my dream job in Asheville, North Carolina, thanks to my Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology from Regis.

GRACE DIEHL, RC â&#x20AC;&#x2122;13 I was accepted to my first choice dental school and feel fully prepared for the tough course work in a doctoral program because of my M.S. in Biomedical Sciences from Regis University.

OUR BEST SHOT As evidence that not all learning happens in the classroom, students in Nan Williamsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ice climbing class test their newfound skills in Clear Creek Canyon. The physical education course, held each winter, introduces students to the spectacular sport and the idea of finding God in all things.

IN THIS ISSUE F E AT U R E S

VOLUME 23 ISSUE 1

SPRING 2015

VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT Jason Caniglia

ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT FOR ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT Sarah Behunek, CPS ’14

EDITORIAL STAFF Sarah Behunek, CPS ’14 Sarah Scholbe, CPS ’12 Jill Treacy DESIGN STAFF Caroline Graf Becky Tillett

GOOD BUSINESS BY JILL TREACY

Doing good by doing well – it’s in the DNA of the new College of Business and Economics launching this fall at Regis.

EDITOR Jean Ortiz ASSISTANT EDITOR Kayleigh Karutis

B Y K AY L E I G H K A R U T I S

A diverse group of Regis students set out to help the less fortunate. They discovered that in serving others, they were profoundly changed as well.

PRESIDENT Father John P. Fitzgibbons, S.J.

ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT Pat Sullivan

LOVE IN ACTION

SEEDS OF CHANGE BY J E A N O RT I Z

A promising initiative led by Regis and its partners stands to transform lives and broaden understanding of what it means to be healthy.

PHOTOGRAPHER Brett Stakelin, RC ’10 OTHER CONTRIBUTORS Gabrielle Savage Edward Ewert Lara Shamieh ON THE COVER: Regis University’s new College of Business and Economics, launching this fall, will infuse Jesuit values along with business fundamentals, challenging students to think critically and consider the greater good in all they do. REGIS UNIVERSITY ALUMNI MAGAZINE, the official magazine for alumni and friends of Regis University, is co-produced by Marketing and Communications, and University Advancement. Regis University is proud to support a more sustainable environment by printing this publication on recycled paper certified by the Sustainable Forestry Initiative. ACRONYMS LIST CC&IS: College of Computer and Information Sciences; COBE: College of Business and Economics; CPS: College for Professional Studies; LHC: Loretto Heights College; RC: Regis College; RHCHP: Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professions; S.J.: Society of Jesus (the Jesuits); RMAC: Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS Email: alumni@regis.edu Mail: Regis University Alumni Magazine, B-16, 3333 Regis Blvd., Denver CO 80221-1099

REGIS UNIVERSITY ALUMNI MAGAZINE SPRING 2015

I N EV E RY I S S U E THIS IS REGIS 5 These are the stories of who we are and what we believe. CLASS NOTES 27 Who got a new job? Who published a book? Who had a baby? Catch up on your classmates’ lives.

Northwest Denver residents served by the Cultivate Health initiative work in the production garden alongside Denver Mayor Michael Hancock, pictured in the foreground. See Page 23 for more details.

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

Dear Regis Community, Of all the Jesuit values, magis seems to draw the widest interpretations and perhaps the most confusion. Although literally translated as “more” or “to a greater degree,” it isn’t about doing or giving more to the point of exhaustion. It is about reflecting on the choices before us and taking the path that leads to something better – the common good. Magis ties in closely with the news in this issue. I am immensely proud to share we will launch the College of Business and Economics this fall. We strongly believe this new college will enable us to contribute that much more to the good for our communities and the world around us. For decades, we’ve worked diligently to solidify our well-respected reputation for offering an innovative, distinctive and values-based business education. Our new college will build on the strengths of Regis College’s undergraduate business programs, graduate programs in the College for Professional Studies’ School of Management and our Master of Nonprofit Management program.

UNCOVERING NEW INSIGHTS INTO AUTISM TREATMENT while

helping area families are among the benefits of a new clinic established by professor and autism expert Laurie Sperry. ALMA VASQUEZ, RC ’06, was a good sport during our photo shoot for the magazine’s cover, announcing the College of Business and Economics.

This issue highlights our long-standing tradition of preparing business professionals who not only are knowledgeable, but principled and informed by their Jesuit Catholic education. We stand committed to that tradition. As you read on, you’re sure to find many other examples of magis. From Regis’ role in improving the health of our surrounding community through our Cultivate Health initiative, to the groundbreaking autism research undertaken by one of our many talented professors, it’s clear the Regis community is hard at work forging new paths and finding inspiration in our shared values. Our future is bright and I hope you share in this excitement. I thank you for all you do to bring the Jesuit values to life. Gratefully,

THE CULTIVATE HEALTH initiative

promises to help the lives of many.

JOHN P. FITZGIBBONS, S.J. PRESIDENT

REGIS UNIVERSITY ALUMNI MAGAZINE SPRING 2015

THIS IS

REGIS

THE NAME SAYS IT ALL. This is the story of who we are and what we value. This is a place to highlight happenings on campus, recognize community accomplishments and let Regis people speak about what matters most to them. Pictured above: Aztec dancers performed on campus as part of festivities organized by the student group Mi Gente in celebration of Mexican Independence Day.

THIS IS REGIS

CONVERSATION with Nathan Matlock Stories from Wartime, an undergraduate history course and public speaker series, celebrated its 20th season this spring. For two decades, the series has welcomed American veterans to share the riveting personal testimony that has fueled the series’ popularity, led to the creation of the Center for the Study of War Experience, and deepened the perspectives of countless individuals. Nathan Matlock, a series organizer and associate director of the center, recently spoke with Regis University Alumni Magazine about the series’ impact and its future. HOW HAS THE SERIES EVOLVED OVER THE YEARS? When the course started out, it was focused almost exclusively on World War II. Now the series features conflicts through present day and we are especially seeing a surge of interest in Vietnam. HOW HAVE YOU SEEN THE SERIES CHANGE LIVES? Students say over and over again that until they took this class, they were operating under a lot of illusions about what veterans were like and what war was like. They are able to have more sophisticated thoughts about what conflict means and what the legacy of conflict is for individuals. Veterans benefit, too, from having a forum where they can express themselves and connect with peers. WHERE DO YOU GO FROM HERE? I think it’s increasingly going to be about contemporary experience. We have a lot of students on campus who are combat vets from Iraq and Afghanistan. I really want to get them more involved. We also are concerned about a disconnect between the civilian public and the military. Only a small fraction of Americans have seen war up close. Our goal is to give the civilian population the best idea we can of what war and its aftermath are really like.

Let the people

speak How has your time at Regis shaped your ethical compass? Share your thoughts on the topic at facebook.com/ regisuniversity

“Regis has influenced me to educate myself when making decisions or building an argument by looking at both sides of a situation. It’s OK to change your point of view after you’ve learned more and realize you feel differently.” Samantha Baydaline, RC ’17

REGIS UNIVERSITY ALUMNI MAGAZINE SPRING 2015

“The concept of cura personalis has definitely impacted me. I consistently try to take into account all outside factors that determine others’ disposition at any given time, while recognizing my interaction with them is only a small part of their everyday lives.”

Allison Peters,

Administrative Coordinator, Biology Department

“I think Regis formed my ethical basis from the way teachers expected you to be honest and the high standards they held every student to. Regis made me always think bigger picture instead of immediate circle.” A.J. Hanson, RC ’10

WHY JESUIT MATTERS a reflection by Gabrielle Savage, CPS ’15

Inspired

PERFORMANCES MUSIC PROGRAM CONCERT AND EVENT SERIES

FALL 2 0

Save the Date 10/6/2015 GAMELAN TUNAS MEKAR 10/14/2015 2ND WEDNESDAY FACULTY RECITAL SERIES: MUSIC PROGRAM FACULTY

E DWARD E W E RT

10/22/2015 INSPIRED THINKERS: VISITING SPEAKER SERIES – SHOW OF THE MOVIE “ZOOT SUIT” FEATURING DANIEL VALDEZ

y journey with Regis University began when I was a young girl in Denver. I remember passing the University’s treelined campus from the passenger seat of my mom’s car, filled with wonder for any institution of higher learning. After graduating high school, I fled to the warmth of the West Coast and eventually began my education at a community college in California, becoming the first in my family to attend college since the 1920s. After a few years of moving around, I had an opportunity to return to Colorado. Having spent the last seven years working in retail operations and leadership development, it was time for me to finish my degree and Regis

once again sparked my interest. I began attending classes on campus, while working full time. To meet my religious studies requirement, I took a peace and justice in Catholic social teaching course with Sister Peg Maloney. The course emphasized the concept of social justice, and Sister Peg’s words resonated with me when she spoke of her journey of faith. She said what was important was helping others, to the best of your ability, while taking care of yourself. It wasn’t about fairness or even religion, just respecting life and social justices that should be afforded to all people. I left that class embracing the message of servant leadership in all areas of my life, and the reward has been

wonderful, deep relationships with others that have paid dividends. Attending Regis allowed me to work on my degree while traveling and working in places like Central America, Europe, Africa, and over the last three years I lived in Montreal. As long as I could find Wi-Fi, it was possible. Now, with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and a Project Management Certification, I’ve moved on to consulting work in Portland, Oregon, and am excited for my next adventure. Although I do not consider myself religious, I have found acceptance and thoughtfulness on the part of Regis students and faculty and can say the Jesuit teachings have made a difference in my life and the lives of others.

EXPERIENCE

LIVE MUSIC AS IT WAS INTENDED.

BE CAPTIVATED BY ONE OF OUR

INSPIRED

PERFORMANCES.

For more, visit REGIS.EDU/MUSIC/TICKETS

REGIS.EDU/RMAGAZINE

MAKING

BRIEF MOVES

A ROUNDUP OF RECENT NEWS AND NUMBERS

70 YEARS

26,000+ service learning hours students completed during the 2013-14 school year

after leaving Regis, deployed during World War II and going on to liberate the Dachau concentration camp, 93-yearold Sidney Shafner was awarded an honorary degree at a recent ceremony.

FOUR STUDENT-ATHLETES

named Academic All-Americans in 2014

SEVENTY

FOUR STUDENT-ATHLETES

named to RMAC All-Academic team in 2014

DOUBLING

Regis College applications, admitted students and deposits were up more than 100 percent in 2014.

Starting this fall, the Division of Counseling and Family Therapy will move from Regis’ Broomfield Campus to the Thornton Campus to accommodate growing demand and make services more accessible.

383,210 A GRAND

GIFT The Cyrus Partington family generously donated an exquisite and rare 130-year-old Steinway grand piano to the Regis Music Program.

Number of Office of Alumni Engagement connections with Regis alumni in 2014 (through events, programs and communications)

TOP BILLING U.S. News & World Report ranked Regis University a “Top University in the West” for 19 consecutive years.

MARKING A MILESTONE The School of Physical Therapy celebrated the 20th anniversary of its founding with a special alumni gathering May 16.

WE BID ADIEU Father Bill Miller, S.J., who came to Regis in 1961 and taught generations of chemistry students, moved to the Fusz Pavilion at Jesuit Hall, a care community for Jesuits in St. Louis, Missouri.

THIS IS REGIS

ranger athletics

LEGENDARY LEADERS A

fter a combined 63 years calling the shots on the hardwood, longtime basketball coaches Lonnie Porter and Linda Raunig recently stepped down from their posts.

With nearly four decades as Regis’ men’s basketball coach, Porter is the longest tenured collegiate basketball coach in Colorado history. He also has amassed more victories than any other men’s collegiate basketball coach in state history with 538 wins. In addition to his influence on the court, Porter started a leadership academy in 1996, which has

grown to the Porter-Billups to lead the Academy. He was Leadership Academy (see PBLA honored at a Feb. 6 reception graduate Alma Vasquez’s success with Denver Mayor Michael story Page 22). Held each Hancock declaring the day summer on Regis’ Northwest “Lonnie Porter Day.” Across his Denver Campus, the Academy career, Porter coached a total of provides academic and 1,041 games. leadership training to RAUNIG OWNS at-risk Denver youth Raunig, the all-time A 100 PERCENT to empower them winningest women’s GRADUATION RATE OF to become effective basketball coach in ALL THE STUDENT- Regis history, led the leaders for themselves and their communities. ATHLETES WHO HAVE team for 25 years. COMPLETED THEIR She earned her As he transitions ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY 400th win during the out of coaching, 2014-15 season, and AT REGIS. Porter will take on an in 2005 was named ambassador role with the Sportwomen of the University while continuing Colorado Coach of the Year.

Even more impressive are her athletes’ graduation rates. Raunig owns a 100 percent graduation rate of all the student-athletes who have completed their athletic eligibility at Regis. Her teams have posted a GPA of 3.00 or above in 49 of 50 semesters. They have also ranked in the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association Academic Top 25 nine of the past 17 years. A reception was held in Raunig’s honor recently. For the latest on the Rangers’ newly announced coaches, visit regisrangers.com.

of recent faculty Bravo aandselection staff accomplishments Janet Houser, vice provost for resource planning and academic dean of RueckertHartman College for Health Professions, was honored with the Administrative Excellence in Healthcare Award, presented by The Denver Post. Part of the 2015 Strength in Health awards, the honor recognizes exemplary performance, care and leadership.

The Regis community gathered recently to celebrate Ken Phillips, assistant to the vice president for mission and art, and his book, “In Due Season,” a compilation of meditations, blessings and poems for autumn, Advent, Christmas and winter feast days. A second volume – focusing on spring, Lent, Easter and summer feast days – also is now available.

Loretta Notareschi, associate professor of music, won the Cincinnati Camerata’s 2014 Composition Contest with her piece “Pace, Pace, Pace.” Notareschi, who writes music for individuals and ensembles around the country, surpassed submissions from all over the world.

REGIS.EDU/RMAGAZINE

THIS IS REGIS

BRAND NEW

THE YEAR IN ADMISSIONS

2015 | May Explore

ETHICS AND THE ROOT OF COMPASSION

In this issue, we explore the role of ethics in our everyday lives, from work and school to volunteerism and service. We start with the new dean of Regis’ College of Business and Economics, Tim Keane. He shared his thoughts on the role of ethics in business today, how ethics will shape the new COBE, and the attributes he hopes Regis COBE graduates exemplify. KAYLEIGH KARUTIS

Perspectives

egis recently rolled out a newly refreshed logo that reflects the invigorated and modern direction the University is headed in, while harkening back to tradition. The new design includes our blue and gold shield and an intelligent and contemporary feel. Find downloadable versions at regis.edu/brandmarks. The University also introduced

a distinctive online-only magazine, R Magazine, designed to complement the magazine in your hands. It draws upon the Jesuit principles of openmindedness and thoughtful dialogue to further explore the themes and issues introduced in our print edition, while taking advantage of the multimedia capabilities of the Web. Take a look and share your feedback at regis.edu/rmagazine.

University’s Jesuit Catholic character.

Two years ago, Regis’ Admissions team took a hard look at marketing and communications materials going to prospective students.

“Everything Matters” is the central tenet of Regis’ newly revamped enrollment marketing platform. It’s a reflection of Regis’ belief that a great education doesn’t just focus on learning in a classroom. It’s about educating the whole person through an array of experiences that prepare Regis graduates to become responsible leaders with the skills and compassion needed to serve the greater good in a complex society.

ny high school student can tell you there’s a lot of clutter in higher education marketing. Missing in all of it, however, are critical questions, like —“Who am I? What do I care about? And what am I supposed to do next?”

“We didn’t like what we saw,” said Kim Frisch, dean of admissions. “We knew going to Regis meant much more than attending classes and earning a degree, and we found we were safely blending in with our competitors — lacking our Jesuit identity, purpose and ambition; swimming in a sea of sameness.” So in 2014, Regis broke the mold and launched a new admissions campaign that embodies the

modern typeface

blue and gold

horizontal treatment alternative vertical treatment

stacked treatment

“Our campaign also aligns with our students’ journeys and the emotional roller coaster ride they travel when selecting a school,” Frisch said. “It takes a clear, cross-channel approach to help students understand what makes Regis so much more than a traditional college experience.”

total

Applications deposits

+98%*

+83%*

*Year-over-year results as of February 2015

REGIS UNIVERSITY ALUMNI MAGAZINE SPRING 2015

industry

Awards 10

WHEN IT COMES TO A JESUIT EDUCATION,

We showcased Regis’ passion and dedication to all areas of a student’s life — education, connection, experience, career path, joy, inquisitiveness and spirituality. Broad and universal in scope, the Everything Matters campaign focuses on Regis’ attention to every detail of campus life with a sense of joy, wonderment and Jesuit passion.

A small sample of our communications: Left to right — Parent Survival Guide, campus visit brochure, admissions poster, visit journal, accepted student brochure, Regis Field Guide, campus visit info cards

A Small Taste of a BIG, BOLD Program Everything Matters is more than a message. We created informative guides for prospective students and parents, like a pocket-sized Regis Field Guide. It’s small enough for admissions counselors to bring to college fairs — often the first place students are introduced to the University.

This Isn’t Your Parent’s Acceptance Letter We call it a promise frame. It not only announces to students they’ve been accepted to Regis, it guarantees they can graduate in four y ears and have a home for their diploma. We want to remind students that the next four years will be the best of their lives, and they need to focus on the experience, not the diploma. We also wanted to express our commitment to their success at Regis by promoting our four-year guarantee. We strongly encouraged posting selfies on social media channels like Instagram and Twitter to share their accomplishment.

When prospective students visit campus for the first time, we arm them with a paperbound Visit Journal. It’s more than questions, tips and space for notes to spur their thinking — it’s an intentional exercise in the Jesuit practice of discernment, with purposeful imagery that celebrates our location, mission, values and strong academic culture.

“BY FAR the coolest acceptance letter I have received! It is a frame for my eventual college diploma!” #thisisregis Gabby Haugh, @haughha10

Check out the results yourself using #thisisregis. REGIS.EDU/RMAGAZINE

THIS IS REGIS

FACULTY:

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING Eric Fretz

Morgan Reitmeyer Cath Kleier

ow does Regis teach lifelong learning?

It begins with awakening curiosity. By having access to in-depth academic experiences outside the classroom, students gain the critical thinking tools to ask the right questions and seek the best answers. This mode of learning, often referred to as experiential education, incorporates thoughtful observation, handson opportunities and creative projects. Three Regis professors took this idea and ran with it during the fall 2014 semester with a class of 24 college freshmen.

Cath Kleier, chair of biology and associate director of the honors program; Morgan Reitmeyer, director of the Writing Program for Regis College and assistant professor of English; and Eric Fretz, associate professor of peace and justice studies, spent their summer developing The POD: An Interdisciplinary Journey, a 10-credit course focused on the 50th anniversary of the Wilderness Act and Rocky Flats, the former nuclear weapons plant near Denver. By combining the freshman writing seminar, introduction to environmental science and introduction to peace and justice

courses, they examined the local Wilderness Act and Rocky Flats from a scientific and rhetorical position. “We wanted to give these students the tools to be educated and engaged citizens and the tools to seek truth and awareness,” Kleier said. “We tell them to be lifelong learners, and we need to model that for them.” The course included a weekend camping trip to open the conversation around nature’s relationship to environmental studies, ample time spent at Rocky Flats, a visit to the Denver Art Museum and

other experiences outside the classroom. While it was more costly than a traditional course, it also had one of the lowest attrition rates the professors had seen. It was clear students found great value in what they took away from the experience, Fretz said. “I’ll never forget it – at the end of the semester, one of our students raised her hand and said ‘It feels like we’re doing something really important here,’” he said. Students also gained new perspectives on civil discourse, compassion and the imagination

of Visitors

V alue

Student honor societies Alpha Sigma Lambda and Lambda Pi Eta welcomed Holocaust survivor Martin Weiss to the Colorado Springs and Northwest Denver campuses. Weiss shared his courageous story that began with his deportation to Auschwitz at age 15.

REGIS UNIVERSITY ALUMNI MAGAZINE SPRING 2015

As part of the launch of the Mile High MFA program, Regis welcomed acclaimed authors Helen Thorpe and Sherman Alexie in recent months. Thorpe has drawn wide praise most recently for her book, “Soldier Girls” – a powerful account of three women deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq. Alexie – an author, poet and filmmaker who won a National Book Award for his novel “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” – is best known for his work depicting contemporary Native American reservation life.

THIS IS REGIS

REGIS RESEARCH:

to put themselves in other’s shoes. “When you look for the truth, it’s important to disagree,” Kleier said. “But it’s important to disagree in a civil manner and recognize where other people are coming from.” While the course focused on the science related to Rocky Flats, the pedagogy is applicable to other subjects and explores how one ought to live. What was meant as an experiential learning opportunity for students became a personal and meaningful time for Kleier, Reitmeyer and Fretz. Planning a complex course was time away from their families, friends, hobbies and scholarly pursuits, but with a rewarding outcome indicative of Regis’ relevant liberal arts culture. “The sacred liberal arts education and Jesuit fundamentals don’t have to do with a specific format of academia – it has to do with the spirit and love of learning,” Reitmeyer said. “This is a really beautiful way that Regis continues to impact generations of students. We should be proud of that.”

Learn more at regis.edu/rmagazine.

MEETING A NEED R

ecognizing the important role early intervention plays for children with autism, Regis professor and autism expert Laurie Sperry gathered funds and launched a clinical lab to help area families, while giving Regis students hands-on experience. It’s also a valuable resource to gather new insights into treatment. The lab ran its first eight-week clinic earlier this year in a refurbished space in the Denver Tech Center. Several Regis students participated weekly, holding sessions with children and their caregivers as well as reflection sessions afterward.

The Institute on the Common Good in partnership with PeaceJam, a Colorado-based nonprofit, hosted Nobel Peace laureate Leymah Gbowee in March. Gbowee led a women’s peace movement that helped bring an end to the Second Liberian Civil War in 2003.

Opening the center was the realization of a dream, one born from knowing that many families facing autism lack the services or help they need, Sperry said.

“Early intervention is so important, but many newly diagnosed children aren’t able to get the services they need,” she said. “Our long-term goal is to give professionals clinical experience so they can better serve families and children with autism.” As one mother, whose 2-year-old son participated in the lab, put it, meeting Sperry and participating in the clinic was a “tremendous blessing.” Her name has been withheld due to the sensitivity of the lab’s research. “My son was diagnosed just two weeks prior to the clinic. I was full of fear and confused,” she said. “The clinic has been a great learning experience during a time that would have been extremely challenging.”

Our Lady of Loretto Grotto The grotto on the Regis University Northwest Denver Campus was recently named “Our Lady of Loretto Grotto” in honor of the Sisters of Loretto and all Loretto Heights College alumni, faculty, staff and friends. Loretto Heights College was the sister school of Regis College – both of these schools sharing a deep commitment to a values-based education. Regis University is proud to build upon this connection with a tribute to all Loretto Heights alumni and community members through this beautifully contemplative and sacred space on campus. If you missed the dedication on May 19, you are invited to visit the Grotto during Alumni Weekend this summer. REGIS.EDU/RMAGAZINE

d a e r sp t c a p im THE

e ristotl e world. A ” . arts ge th of its p s help chan m u s ory. t n the er, our gift s a h t e r h e geth reat of t le is g fference. To t o r h a w p “The make a di s. Be r s t e f i t g at nual

ift m g y r Eve

n Your a

Ways to Give ONLINE: regis.edu/giving MAIL: For your convenience, please use the attached return envelope. PHONE: 303.458.3535 or 1.800.388.2366 x 3535

LIVES CHANGED.

FEATURES EACH ISSUE OF REGIS UNIVERSITY ALUMNI MAGAZINE features people who are ambassadors of our Jesuit values and programs that make an impact on our world. Pictured above: Tim Keane, founding dean of the College of Business and Economics, brings leadership skills honed over more than 30 years as a technology entrepreneur and academic professional.

LOVE IN ACTION. B Y K AY L E I G H K A R U T I S

It’s one thing to say you want to serve the less fortunate. It’s something entirely different to raise funds for a year to bring medical and dental service to more than 1,400 underserved Nicaraguans. And to do it again, one year later? That’s dedication. “The trip to Nicaragua changed my life completely. I witnessed the kindness humanity has the potential to offer,” said Regis University nursing sophomore Whitney Rawlings.

Rawlings, co-president of the Regis Global Medical Brigades with fellow nursing sophomore Hannah McGrew, hopes to bring the same experience and kindness to Panama when the club visits Aug. 1-7. For its August 2014 trip to Nicaragua, club members raised more than $6,000 to send 20 students, additional Regis community members and health supplies to two remote villages. The experience was so transformative, so meaningful, that club organizers stepped up their efforts for 2015, raising the $5,000 minimum required by February. They’ve partnered with Global Brigades, an international health and development organization, to bring the same services to Panama, and plan to continue raising money to bring extra supplies, hire more medical providers and hopefully serve more Panamanians come August.

L A R A SH A M IE H

Through Global Brigades, Regis’ chapter of the club is paired with on-the-ground medical providers. They are sent to a predetermined location in their chosen country and have several days to serve as many people as they can. The conditions are difficult, often lacking reliable electricity or running water. Even getting to the villages they’re serving can prove dangerous. And providing adequate supplies, despite generous donations from sponsors and vigorous fundraising efforts, is a challenge given the overwhelming number of people who seek services. But, participants do the best they can with what they have, and in doing so, are able to provide services that many local individuals would never receive otherwise. The Regis club is open to all. The Nicaraguan trip, spearheaded by nursing junior Emily Tait, included students from a variety

of majors, not just health care, as well as family members of students. The same holds true for the Panama trip. All that’s required is a desire to serve the less fortunate. “I was so proud,” said Lara Shamieh, biology professor and club advisor. “They worked very hard. We would be taking our lunch break, and students would come up to me asking if they could skip it and keep serving the patients.” In serving, brigades participants were transformed as much, if not more so, than the patients they saw, Shamieh said. Whether it was helping a young mother perform physical therapy exercises with her disabled son or simply demonstrating good toothbrushing technique, group members saw firsthand the difference they could make. Each day, they sought to embody their trip motto, a quote from Mother

Teresa: “Prayer in action is love. Love in action is service.” “We reflected every night and the overwhelming reaction was that they were getting as much, if not more, from serving as the patients they saw,” Shamieh said. For Rawlings, her experience in Nicaragua, and hopefully in Panama, is a reflection of what she’s come to expect as a Regis student. The response from the community to the Medical Brigades’ mission has been overwhelmingly positive, she said. As a commuter student, Rawlings was missing that sense of community, and found it in the club she now helps lead. “I gained so many connections to Regis in many different ways through the Global Medical Brigades. At Regis, it’s all about the community,” she said. “It has definitely enhanced my experience here.” REGIS.EDU/RMAGAZINE

Introducing the

COLLEGE BUSINESS ECONOMICS of

and

BY JILL TREACY

n fall 2015, Regis University will combine existing business programs from Regis College and the College for Professional Studies to launch the distinctive College of Business and Economics. The idea of a business college is by no means revolutionary. But a Jesuit business college stands out, creating a unique category with an authentic, timely and relevant flavor for ethics. University leaders tapped the expertise of Father David M. McCallum, S.J., a Jesuit well versed in leadership and Jesuit business school development, in the conceptual stage of the new college. In his white paper “A Leadership Education Model for Jesuit Business Schools,” McCallum defines a Jesuit business school as one that “seeks to build the moral character of an individual, such that competence is complemented by conscious and a compassionate concern for others beyond oneself.”

REGIS UNIVERSITY ALUMNI MAGAZINE SPRING 2015

Alma Vasquez, RC â&#x20AC;&#x2122;06, is one of many whose careers have flourished with a Regis business degree. The University is building on a long tradition of success with the launch of the College of Business and Economics.

REGIS.EDU/RMAGAZINE

Competence, consciousness and compassion have long been synonymous with a Regis business education and lay the foundation for the new college. The inherent ethical component of a Jesuit business school combined with a dash of creativity is what make the College of Business and Economics (COBE) significant and distinctive. An integral part of the Regis Rising Strategic Plan, the college will enhance the reputation of the existing business and nonprofit management degree programs and the University as a whole. The School of Management in CPS and Division of Business in Regis College already boast the highest enrollment numbers and revenue in

their respective colleges. As of the spring 2015 semester, Regis business programs enrolled more than 1,900 students, while alumni numbered nearly 26,000. With its exclusive niche, the newly unified business college will serve both a regional and a national market. Donna Van Dusen, professor and assistant dean of the School of Management, and Matt Daly, associate professor in the Division of Business, lead the COBE Implementation Committee. The goal, they say, is to keep the liberal arts underpinnings and utilize the talents of faculty from each program. From this alignment flows an energized mission and vision. At the same time, the college will offer a concentrated focus on

economics as it informs business by way of social matters. “We’re teaching the whole picture, and we arm students with the ability to make their own decisions,” Van Dusen said. Next steps include crafting a curriculum with a principled framework. Each course will be infused with Jesuit values, with content and tools enforced in experiential learning, internship opportunities and volunteer experiences. “The difference between Regis and other business schools is the mission and life skills our students achieve,” Van Dusen said. CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

Strategically SPEAKING As chief academic officer, Provost Patricia Ladewig, Ph.D., oversees the academic and operational endeavors at Regis University. She spoke with Regis University Alumni Magazine about the goals, purpose and direction of the new College of Business and Economics. Why offer a unique COBE right now? Our goal is to make it a distinctive college in the Jesuit tradition, with a focus on nonprofit, for profit and business corporations. We want to increase visibility for our business programs, enhance the reputation of the business degrees and University as a whole, and begin serving the broader business community who want educated and wellrounded students. The decision to implement this college now is an integral step of the Strategic Plan. Is there a missing voice in the business world and if so, will Regis fill that gap? The world has always needed a values-based business college, but it’s become much more obvious in recent years just how much. Business schools are just starting to adopt an ethical focus, but it’s long been threaded throughout our programs. That is not to say the ethical focus comes at the expense of making a profit or disregarding the bottom line – quite the opposite. As Father David Clarke, S.J., used to say in regard to nonprofits, “we’re not for profit, but we’re not for loss either.” What does this ethical focus mean in terms of teaching critical thinking? Critical thinking is a hallmark of Jesuit education, so when we think of

REGIS UNIVERSITY ALUMNI MAGAZINE SPRING 2015

Jesuit education, we think about the whole communication spectrum, emphasizing the ability to articulate ideas both verbally and in writing and the ability to work in teams. Those are hallmarks of all of our programs, but they will be especially powerful in the College of Business and Economics. The business and broader community grapple with ethical issues. Can Regis’ Jesuit-educated business alumni make a difference? As our alumni advance in their careers, many are successful and make a difference, even at a young age. As one of our business alumni, Andy Anderson, points out, “It’s all about doing the right thing.” (see page 20). We need ethical business leaders who consider the good of the workforce and not just the bottom line. Our whole education is shaped to create that mentality – and our alumni see the difference when they get out in the world. They have a broader perspective, they recognize need where it exists and they are able to develop creative programs and ideas. Creativity is another hallmark of Jesuit education – it’s looking at things in a different way, and because you look at things in a different way, you can step back and see potential for change. What are the most exciting opportunities in establishing a new business college? I think we can enhance our reputation and have people say, “There’s something different about a Regis business graduate.” Also, I’m excited to give back to our community through leadership, business development and opportunities for first generation students through scholarships and support. I look forward to seeing COBE Academic Dean Tim Keane (see page 21) and faculty volunteering and in leadership positions on more boards, committees and in professional organizations as they listen and contribute to discussions in the business community. All of that is giving back, but it also enhances our reputation.

Jesuit Inspired

ANDY ANDERSON, RC ’90 VICE PRESIDENT FOR DEVELOPMENT, API, MINNEAPOLIS

Learn more at regis.edu/rmagazine.

Keane FOR BUSINESS

FOUNDING DEAN OF THE COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS Tim Keane brings leadership skills honed over more than 30 years as a technology entrepreneur and academic professional – the perfect combination for the founding dean of the new COBE. A professional soccer player in the 1980s, he also was an executive at Anheuser-Busch and president, CEO and partner at Entrada Technologies Inc.

With an educational history steeped in the Jesuit tradition, Keane graduated from DeSmet Jesuit High School, received his bachelor’s at Rollins College, MBA from the University of Richmond and a Ph.D. in public policy from St. Louis University.

“I want to thank Father Fitzgibbons, S.J., and the entire Regis community for “Regis has committed welcoming me to the to building leaders of In his most recent team,” Keane said. conscience who will attack “In launching the new position, Keane took the business the urgent issues facing a College of Business and academia world Economics, Regis has globalizing world.” by storm as an committed to building associate professor leaders of conscience and founding executive director of the who will attack the urgent issues facing Emerson Leadership Institute at the John a globalizing world. I am fortunate to be Cook School of Business at St. Louis part of this exciting future.” University. He also founded the Helzberg School of Management’s Center for Keane’s unique and commendable Leadership Ethics at Rockhurst College. background will undoubtedly go far in advancing the new business college.

A Regis Trustee, entrepreneur and family man, Anderson leads by example and relies on teamwork. He is guided by his Regis Jesuit foundations in integrity and ethics. “I tell my kids, ‘Don’t lie. If you had your hand in the cookie jar, say so, because you are going to be caught.’ Be honorable, ethical and sure your integrity stands tall. Jesuit beliefs and a college of business — you cannot build a better combination.”

FIND MORE INSPIRATIONS ON PAGE 22

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Jesuit Inspired

ALMA VASQUEZ, RC ’06

WALTER THARP, RC ’94

KATHY KRANZ, CPS ’13

ACCOUNTANT, NEEDLES & ASSOCIATES, LLC, CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTS, DENVER

FOUNDER, CANE LAND DISTILLERY COMPANY, BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA AND DENVER

VICE PRESIDENT AND CFO, PINNACOL ASSURANCE, DENVER

Vasquez came to Regis by way of the Porter-Billups Leadership Academy as one of the first two graduates. She is also the first in her family to graduate from college. She pays tribute to Regis for showing her there is more to life than making money.

Tharp turned to his family’s 150-year-old sugar cane business on the Alma Plantation & Sugar Mill in Louisiana to start production distilling a variety of spirits. Tharp’s Regis education fueled his creativity and drive.

A single mother who sought an MBA program to perfect her leadership and management styles, Kranz credits her Regis journey with her rise to the executive level.

“Focus on community services and helping others. That is what our speaker at graduation shared, and that is what stayed with me.”

“For those with curiosity and ambition, Regis offers much more. The relationships formed are what I treasure most, but connecting students to real working experiences is what separates Regis from other institutions.”

“There was an ethics portion of every class, not just one and done. It was more real world. We are going to encounter different types of problems in business and need a framework to deal with them. Strategic planning at my company is thrilling because I have a great foundation of skills from Regis.”

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20

By partnering with the local businesses community and leaders, the college will create a competitive academic program for students. COBE will provide the experience, innovation and ingenuity to prepare future leaders to excel in business as well as the nonprofit sector.

Establishment of the College of Business and Economics is well underway. The faculty is dedicated to growing an already respected business program as Regis expands to meet the ever-changing needs of today’s organizations, employers and the community.

With that comes a promise on the horizon: informed business men and women with a competitive spirit seeking social justice.

“We already have a firm business foundation, but we get to evolve who we are, benefit our students and grow our reputation as one of the nation’s premier business colleges,” said Matt Daly.

REGIS UNIVERSITY ALUMNI MAGAZINE SPRING 2015

seeds CHANGE of

BY J E A N O RT I Z

On a wide swath of land just steps off Regisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Northwest Denver Campus, hope for the future has taken root. A healthier, more connected community is taking shape as part of an ambitious and promising initiative involving Regis, private developers and a growing network of partners. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s called Cultivate Health and its goal is simple: Empower residents living in the neighborhoods near Regis by providing access to healthy food, an active lifestyle and integrated health care services.

REGIS.EDU/RMAGAZINE

Federal Boulevard

CULTIVATE HEALTH MAP Production gardens – A pay-what-you-can farm stand will distribute fresh produce grown in these one-acre gardens managed by UrbiCulture Community Farms that also will offer students and community members hands-on lessons. 54th Avenue

ARIA DENVER 52nd Avenue

ZUNI PARK

REGIS UNIVERSITY 50th Avenue

49th Avenue

Federal Boulevard

49th Avenue

Zuni Street

50th Avenue

Integrated Health Services – Opening this fall on campus to the Regis community and to all by fall 2016, the Regis Neighborhood Health Center will provide preventive and personalized health services.

Greenhouse – Installed this spring, the greenhouse will enable year-round growing and fresh produce, while providing more training ground for students.

REGIS UNIVERSITY ALUMNI MAGAZINE SPRING 2015

Schools and Parks – Zuni Park and Beach Court Elementary, along with Guardian Angels Catholic School — located east of Aria Denver — will be hubs of activity, including nutrition and physical activity programs. Marycrest Assisted Living – This existing housing for seniors and persons with disabilities has been incorporated into the master plan for the Aria Denver site.

Safety Improvements – Partners like WalkDenver and Bicycle Colorado are helping improve pedestrian and bicyclist safety to better connect the neighborhoods surrounding Regis.

the community More than 14,000 residents live within the area surrounding Regis that Cultivate Health will benefit.

YOUR IMPACT Want to be part of this innovative project?

Permaculture Gardens – Considered self-sustaining, functional landscape, these perennial plants yield herbs, fruits and nuts that offer a variety of health benefits.

Apartments – These affordable, oneand two-bedroom units include green building features and energy efficient appliances.

Cohousing – This former convent will be converted to 28 units offering private living quarters and shared community space for dining, activity and laundry.

Townhomes – Phase one of construction on these for sale, market-rate homes is complete.

Gifts to the Cultivate Health Founders Fund support clinic enhancements and services beginning Fall 2015. Contact Mary Brozovich in University Advancement at 303.458.3535 for more information or visit regis.edu/giving.

It’s a fitting endeavor for Regis given its Jesuit tradition and emphasis on values such as cura personalis, or caring for the whole person, said Father Dirk Dunfee, S.J., assistant professor in Regis’ Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professions and a key organizer in the initiative. The prevailing model in this country is that health is the absence of obvious disease, but Cultivate Health challenges this with a broader understanding of what healthy means, Dunfee said. “People are healthiest when they’re part of a supportive community,” he said. In a Christian context, it’s about the Gospel, he added. “We are obliged to care for one another because we’re

connected to one another,” he said. “That’s the vision behind Cultivate Health.”

planting the seeds When the Sisters of St. Francis of Penance and Christian Charity decided to sell their 17.5 acres near 52nd Avenue and Federal Boulevard, long home to their convent and sprawling fruit orchards, they had a vision. They sought a buyer who shared their commitment to social and environmental stewardship. They found that in developers Urban Ventures, known for creating socially and environmentally responsible communities, and Perry Rose – known for its success with mixed-income development, affordable housing and

revitalization projects. Urban Ventures President Susan Powers saw great opportunity in the site – now known as Aria Denver – and involving surrounding neighborhoods. She didn’t have to go far to find the project’s first major partner. “Regis University is a natural partner for this project,” Powers said. “Its faculty, staff and students bring expertise that allows us to involve a variety of disciplines in Cultivate Health.” Janet Houser, academic dean of Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professions, who has guided Regis’ involvement in the project from the beginning, also saw immense potential. “Our vision is to have a positive impact on the community in REGIS.EDU/RMAGAZINE

ABUNDANCE OF OPPORTUNITY Plans are in the works to create a Regis University center that will explore connections among food systems (from production to consumption), communities and their health, and urban living.

which we live, work and learn,” Houser said. “Our focus in RHCHP is on health, of course, but our broad interpretation of that word includes opportunities for healthy nutrition, active living and preventive health care. This project touches all three.”

springing to life While some work is complete, Aria Denver will be transformed by 2019 to accommodate 450 residential units – including affordable rental apartments, forsale townhomes and cohousing – two production gardens, a greenhouse and permaculture gardens. This summer, teams will install adult fitness equipment in a neighborhood park, while efforts are underway to improve the area’s pedestrian and bicyclist safety and better connect the neighborhoods. Community feedback also is continually solicited to develop programming that fits residents’ needs. Regis also is lending support via its expertise in urban agriculture

and related topics (see story right), as well as through the Regis Neighborhood Health Center. Faculty and students from Regis’ nurse practitioner, physical therapy, pharmacy and counseling programs will staff the latter, which Dunfee will direct. Regis Neighborhood Health is set to open this fall to the Regis community and fall of 2016 to all. The center will provide preventive and personalized health services, and offer health care students hands-on experience. University support, for-pay services and private gifts will fund the health center. Financial support for Cultivate Health as a whole, meanwhile, is gaining momentum. Among other support, the project has secured grants from the Colorado Health Foundation and the Colorado Garden Foundation. Organizers continue exploring other funding sources. Growing also is the number of partners. Now approaching two dozen, the list includes The Trust for Public Land, UrbiCulture

Community Farms, WalkDenver and Bicycle Colorado.

a flourishing future What does success look like five or 10 years from now? It will be determined by how many people are engaged in healthy activities – out walking or getting fresh produce from the gardens – and whether residents are taking the lead in various aspects of the initiative, said Sue Scherer, associate dean of RueckertHartman College for Health Professions and a key Cultivate Health organizer. As for the Regis community, she hopes opportunities for involvement will grow and those involved will find fulfillment in living the mission and coming away changed, too. “This is an outflow of our service to the community,” Scherer said. “We want to provide what the community needs, but we also want it to be reciprocal. We want to learn from the community.”

Damien Thompson, associate professor of sociology and a cultural anthropologist (pictured above), will lead the center, which among other things, will serve as a consultation resource for Cultivate Health. A major and minor exploring those same topics also have been proposed. Organizers envision hands-on lessons in the gardens on the Aria Denver site as well as working with the community, supplemented by interdisciplinary classroom lessons. By bringing together various stakeholders and practical experiences, Regis will create opportunities for students to develop the capacity to discover innovative approaches to improving health. Students also gain a unique glimpse into their future. “We have the opportunity to create a space for students to start to figure out what that means,” Thompson said. “If you’re going to say, ‘I’m going to change the world,’ that’s great. Go for it. But what does that really look like? What skills do you need to get yourself there?” Learn more at regis.edu/rmagazine.

REGIS UNIVERSITY ALUMNI MAGAZINE SPRING 2015

CLASS

NOTES

THE REGIS COMMUNITY IS HARD AT WORK - AND WE’VE GOT ALL THE DETAILS FOR YOU. Inside you will find information about the people you went to school with – who started a company, published a book or brought a baby into the Ranger family. We also remember those who are no longer with us. Pictured above: In a photo taken circa 1893, elementary students participate in a preparatory course at the College of the Sacred Heart (Regis’ former name).

CLASS NOTES

y B

s s a l C BOARD OF TRUSTEES

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society honored DICK KELLY, RC ’68, CPS ’82, and his wife Robin for their outstanding philanthropic and community service at the MS On the Move Luncheon. JAMES M. LYONS wrote a book about his experiences in Northern Ireland called “Peace Meets the Street: On the Ground in Northern Ireland, 1993-2011.” Lyons was featured in the Denver Business Journal for his work. Canada Carbon Inc. appointed VICE ADMIRAL RICHARD H. TRULY to its advisory board. Truly previously served as director of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

1950s EMANUEL (VESS) LAWBAUGH, RC ’57, national judge advocate for the Military Order of the Purple Heart, was inducted into the Arkansas Military Veterans Hall of Fame.

1960s DEACON ROGER MULLANEY, RC ’62, retired from the Deaconate on Dec. 15, 2014, the 43rd anniversary of beginning his service to the church. DARRELL S. MUDD, RC ’65, published his book, “The Glocke Conspiracy,” in November 2014 with American Star Books. JAMES MCCARVILLE, RC ’67, retired as executive director of the Port of Pittsburgh Commission. He was awarded the Outstanding Civilian Service Medal by the U.S. Department of the Army and the Meritorious Public Service Award by the

U.S. Coast Guard. Prior to his retirement, he was named a White House Champion of Change in Transportation.

What would a LEGACY GIFT to Regis University do for you?

1970s Following his 2003 retirement from Bloom Township High School in Chicago Heights, Illinois, PETER J. MCGUIRE, JR., RC ’70, was inducted into the Illinois High School Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame in 2012 and the 16-inch Softball Hall of Fame in 2013. The Financial Times named Resource Management LLC, a firm founded by RANDY WAESCHE, RC ’72, one of the top financial advisory firms in the country. JAN DUNLAP, RC ’77, had two of her books, “Swift Justice” and “Saved by Gracie: How a Rough-and-Tumble Rescue Dog Dragged Me Back to Health, Happiness, and God,” nominated for the 2014 Minnesota Book Awards. DOUG STALEY, RC ’79, artistic director of Theater Schmeater in Seattle, received the Melissa Hines Award for achievement that positively impacted the Seattle theater community.

A legacy gift allows you to create a meaningful and lasting impact for generations of students Offers you a convenient way to leverage your hard-earned assets:

Bequest Beneficiary designation Gift of life insurance Charitable gift annuity Enables you to align your gift with your goals Positions you and your family for other advantages, like valuable tax benefits

1980s KATHLEEN ODLE, RC ’82, a member at Sherman & Howard’s Denver office, was recognized in the 2015 Best Lawyers in America rankings for Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law.

REGIS UNIVERSITY ALUMNI MAGAZINE SPRING 2015

Explore your options for making a lasting impact — at your convenience. Visit our full-service gift and estate planning website

REGIS.MYLEGACYGIFT.ORG OR CONTACT

Kurt Bartley, Director of Gift Planning 800.388.2366 ext. 5152, kbartley@regis.edu

CLASS NOTES

ALUMNI CONVERSATION

with Dennis Gallagher, RC ’61 See more of his interview at regis.edu/alumni.

South Dakota’s Right to Life (SDRTL) awarded the REVEREND KEVIN DOYLE, RC ’85, with its highest honor, the 2014 SDRTL Humanitarian of the Year Award. The High Country United Way hired MARY BETH SCEBOLD, RC ’86, as executive director. Scebold has 27 years of experience in business and public relations. BRIDGET K. SULLIVAN, RC ’87, a member in the Sherman & Howard’s Denver office, was recognized in the 2015 Best Lawyers in America rankings for Tax Law and Trusts and Estates.

1990s SONJA GUENTHER, RC ’92, CPS ’10, joined IMA Inc. as a workers’ compensation specialist. Dennis Gallagher – a graduate, parent of a Regis graduate, professor emeritus and financial contributor to the University – has a lifelong connection to Regis and the mission of service. He retires this year after a 44-year career in public service in the Colorado House, state Senate, Denver City Council and Denver auditor position. Gallagher spoke with Regis University Alumni Magazine about leadership, the city of Denver and Regis’ impact.

How did your education influence your commitment to being a leader and public servant? At Regis, I remember learning about the ancient Roman leader Cicero fighting for freedom and defending the Roman Republic from tyrants. That got into my blood and bones and I would think, “Would Cicero agree with my decisions?” That’s how it all got started.

Regis was a part of your childhood growing up in northwest Denver, correct? I used to ride my bike around campus as a boy and fell in love with it back then. When I was in high school, Father Robert Boyle, S.J., came to our school and introduced us to the written work of Shakespeare and Gerard Manley Hopkins, S.J., a Jesuit poet with whom I have had a deep spiritual connection ever since. My family knew Regis was a wonderful place where there was great learning going on. It was paradise for me and I still relish my time there.

How has Regis influenced Denver? Regis has sent a thoughtful, intelligent workforce to the city. Even today, Regis graduates are encouraged to be entrepreneurs and continue improving the economy. The citizens of ancient Athens all swore an oath to leave the city more beautiful than they found it, and our graduates should go forth and do likewise.

Altadena Library District board of trustees appointed MINDY KITTAY, CPS ’92, as the district’s 10th library director. Spirit AeroSystems Inc. welcomed KRISSTIE KONDROTIS, CPS ’92, to its senior leadership team as senior vice president of business development. JENNIFER VANDOREN EGGER, RC ’92, was accepted to the University of Florida College of Pharmacy class of 2018. CARMENELISA PEREZ-KUDZMA, RC ’93, was named director of the Paralegal and Legal Studies Program at Regis College, in addition to being an assistant professor and senior counsel at her firm Perez-Kudzma Law Office P.C., in Weston, Massachusetts. The Telluride Arts’ Gallery 81435 featured a solo exhibition of contemporary industrial, urban landscape paintings by SHARON FEDER, RC ’94, a Denver-based artist.

JANINE MERRILL, CPS ’94, joined Stockman Bank as a marketing officer for its north-central-area offices. LISA NELSON, CPS ’94, joined the board of directors of Wood River Health Services. Nelson is a senior health informaticist with Lantana Consulting Group. AllSource Analysis Inc. hired ANTHONY PALIZZI, CPS ’95, as vice president of sales and business development. Blackbird Energy Inc. appointed KEVIN ANDRUS, CPS ’97, an independent member of its board of directors. DIEDRA GARCIA, CPS ’97, ’10, president and CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Denver, was named a ColoradoBiz CEO of the Year finalist. DANICA FAVORITE-MCDONALD’S, RC ’97, first book in the Love Inspired Historical story series, “Rocky Mountain Dreams,” was released in November 2014. Details can be found on danicafavorite.com. STATE SENATOR RACHEL ZENZINGER, RC ’97, CPS ’11, was named a 2014 Colorado Community College System Legislator of the Year for her support of community colleges during the 2014 legislative session. JANE NORTON, CPS ’99, joined the board of directors at Southern Concepts Restaurant Group. Norton is the founder and general manager of Norton & Associates LLC consulting firm, established in 2012. Lamar Community College recognized LORI PETERSON, CPS ’99, with the Adjunct Instructor of the Year Award for excellence in teaching.

REGIS.EDU/RMAGAZINE

Recipient of a

Board of Trustees Scholarship and the Regis Grant

Farnaz Alimehri, RC ’15 Regis University has played a critical role in preparing me to pursue my passion for serving global communities. I am originally from Iran and being born in a country where political freedom is not common has shaped how I see the world and my future. The Jesuit tradition of cura personalis, caring for the whole person, has reinforced my aspiration to serve the international community and make a positive difference. The knowledge I gained through my bachelor’s degree in politics combined with my desire to benefit the greater good will help me pursue my dream: to one day serve as an international conflict manager in the White House. As a scholarship recipient, I feel the generosity and kindness of those within the Regis community and I am so grateful for the gifts that have helped support my education. Because of Regis, I have grown into a person with a global perspective and a passion to give back. Thank you for making my Regis experience possible.

Regis University students are global thinkers who — as alumni — change the world. Your gift makes a difference for Farnaz and others.

Thank you for spreading the impact.

CLASS NOTES STEPHEN SWEENEY, RC ’99, married Julia Sweeney on July 5, 2014. Congratulations! NANCY WERNER, CPS ’99, began her first year of a four-year term on the Mount Marty College Board of Trustees. Werner holds a bachelor’s in religious education from Mount Marty College.

2000s Mercer Island Superintendent Dr. Gary Plano named AIMEE BATLINER-GILETTE, CPS ’00, principal at Elementary No. 4. Her duties begin July 2015. KIMBERLY KVAAL, CPS ’00, was hired as vice president of financial affairs at St. Edward’s University. McCathern, PLLC named TY M. SHEAKS, RC ’00, a partner of the firm. Sheaks is a Dallas-based attorney and heads McCathern’s retail, restaurant and hospitality section. ROBERT A. BAFFI, PH.D., CPS ’01, was elected to the board of directors at KalaBios Pharmaceuticals. Dr. Baffi is the executive vice president of technical operations at BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. MARTIN GRIMM, CPS ’01, is the new principal of Hayfield Secondary School. He previously served as principal of Centreville High School. CHRISTOPHER P. HULIN, CPS ’01, CRNA, DNP, the dean and program administrator of the Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia, will become the fourth president in the school’s 65-year history on July 1. Continental Who’s Who recognized MARCIA L. KLINGENBERG, CPS ’01, the operations manager at Broken Open LLC, as a Pinnacle Professional in real estate.

NAASHOM MARX, RC ’01, joined the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce as vice president for business growth and international trade to lead efforts in connecting businesses to international markets and resources.

School, located in Las Vegas, for eight years and has taught in the Las Vegas Valley for 20 years.

Friends of Foster Children named WENDY TIPPETT, CPS ’04, chief executive officer.

DON NELSON, CPS ’02, has been hired as general manager for the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra in Buffalo, New York.

KATHLEEN BRENDZA, CPS ’05, joined the Children’s Garden of Learning as the preschool’s executive director.

Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center named BRETT MCCLAIN, CPS ’01, chief operating officer. McClain has worked at Dignity Health Medical Group for six years as chief administrative officer.

Evergreen Unitarian Universalist Fellowship welcomed REVEREND CARMEN TENEYCK-MCDOWELL, CPS ’02, as minister of the congregation.

MICHELLE MILLS, CPS ’05, chief executive officer of the Colorado Rural Health Center, was appointed to the Colorado Regional Health Information Organization board of directors.

Leadership Tuscarawas announced the appointment of MICHAEL MORELLI, CPS ’01, to its board of directors. Morelli is the general manager of the Performing Arts Center at Kent State Tuscarawas. Colorado-based Latina’s First Foundation, co-founded by Greenberg Traurig attorney MESHACH RHOADES, RC ’01, is the National Hispanic Bar Association’s 2014 Pro Bono Corporate of the Year Award recipient. President Barack Obama appointed GILBERT CISNEROS, CPS ’02, a member on the Advisory Committee on the Arts for the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Davis Graham & Stubbs elected ZACHARY DETRA, RC ’02, as a partner at the Denver law firm. Detra has practiced in the firm’s finance and acquisitions department since 2008. Bishop Gorman High School recognized JAMEY MILLER, CPS ’02, with the Father Louis Querbes Award for Excellence in Education. Miller has taught English at Bishop Gorman High

GRETCHEN SEWCZAK-CLAUDE, RC ’03, RHCHP ’07, was named assistant lecturer in the Division of Kinesiology and Health at the University of Wyoming. The Ent Federal Credit Union in Colorado Springs, Colorado, hired SCHWAN HARDI, RC ’03, as director of internal audit. Wilson Electronics LLC appointed JEFFREY GUDEWICZ, CPS ’03, as vice president of corporate development. Gudewicz joined Wilson Electronics in 2014. The Rhode Island Center for Freedom and Prosperity named CLAY JOHNSON, CPS ’03, development director. HEIDI MARTINEZ, CPS ’03, a realtor with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage’s Devonshire office, will serve as the 2015 president of the Women’s Council of Realtors Mile High Chapter. DAN SHOEMAKER, CPS ’03, began his new position as principal of Wartburg Central Elementary in Wartburg, Tennessee, in July 2014. Shoemaker began his education career at Central Elementary School teaching history and science to seventh graders. The Columbia Basin Herald named ERIC LAFONTAINE, CPS ’04, publisher.

JACK PERRY JR., CPS ’05, has announced the release of his first book, “The Other Side of Anger: A Son’s Search for Peace.” Perry is a former police officer and U.S. Army commander, and is now a private-sector businessman, teacher and public speaker. MATT SMITH, CPS ’05, was promoted to vice president of Hill & Wilkinson, a general contracting firm in Richardson, Texas. The Senior Advantage Real Estate Council named VICKI WIMBERLY, CPS ’05, a seniors’ real estate specialist. In her position she will specialize in real estate services with home buyers and sellers over 50. Ready Pac Foods Inc. hired PHIL YAMAMOTO, CPS ’05, as vice president of procurement. PetSmart announced the promotion of MATT LINCOLN, CPS ’06, to senior director of loss prevention and safety for the Phoenix-based company. YVONNE SEN KANDWA, CPS ’06, debuted books at the 26th Ugandan North American Association Convention in San Diego. Both from the series “An African Adventure of Ugandan Princesses: Nkinzi and Namikka,” the books are titled “An Afternoon at the Farmer’s Market” and “Nkinzi and Namikka Have a Tea Party.” REGIS.EDU/RMAGAZINE

CLASS NOTES

ALUMNI CONVERSATION

with Karen Webber, vice president and chief of staff

JODY MCNERNEY, CPS ’07, joined the Bank of the West as vice president and senior private client advisor for Denver and the surrounding mountain communities. McNerney also serves on the board for the National Kidney Foundation and is a member of the Colorado Nonprofit Association. The Worldwide Leaders in Healthcare elected BROOKE MORGAN RILEY, RHCHP ’07, RN, BSN, MSN, WHNP-BC, CNM, to represent California as one of the most experienced and highly skilled nursing professionals.

With 34 years as a Regis University employee, Karen Webber has seen, well, a lot. Webber, who has served nearly every University department, will retire this year. She reflected on her time at Regis during a conversation with Regis University Alumni Magazine.

Which was your favorite job?

What is your most beloved memory from Regis?

In spring 1989, I was needed at a student meeting in the Student Center. Eight months pregnant, I waddled from Main Hall to the meeting. To my surprise, I was met with praise and given the Administrator of the Year award by the student body. It was one of the most touching moments of my life here. “MY HEART WILL

I’ve been honored BELONG TO REGIS AND to be a part of ITS PEOPLE TO THE How will Regis many positive END OF MY DAYS.” remain with you? changes at Regis The Regis over the years. I community celebrated with me loved working with students my greatest joys, especially the in financial aid; with the Regis births of my two daughters. They College faculty when I served supported me through my pain as chief negotiator on the and fear as I battled breast cancer. collective bargaining agreement; They grieved with and comforted with master planning capital me through my greatest sorrow construction and Physical Plant, upon the death of my husband. My ITS, Campus Safety, Enrollment heart will belong to Regis and its Services and Human Resources people to the end of my days. when I was vice president for administration; and with the president and Board of Trustees What are your future plans? as vice president/chief of staff. I plan to spend a lot of time with my first grandchild, and to travel recreationally a great deal.

REGIS UNIVERSITY ALUMNI MAGAZINE SPRING 2015

The National Association for Catering and Events elected DONNELL BAYOT, CPS ’08,’09, director of academic affairs at The International School of Hospitality, to its board of directors. Sarasota County in Florida named SCOTT N. SCHROYER, CPS ’08, its public utilities director. He previously worked for the city of Hudson, Ohio, since 1984. KAREN WHITMAN, RHCHP ’08, was promoted to assistant dean of the undergraduate nursing programs at American Sentinel University and will manage the RN to BSN program, undergraduate faculty and students and the development of the undergraduate curriculum. MICHELLE BARRETT, CPS ’09, was named an elementary principal in the New Lothrop Public Area Schools district. The National Association of Professional Women named LAURA PADGETT, CPS ’09, speaker, dancer and author of “Mama’s Ring” and “Dolores, Like the River,” a 2014 Professional Woman of the Year. SARAH ELIZABETH MCBRIDE, RHCHP ’10, married Adam Taylor Nestlerode on June 27, 2014,

in Asheville, North Carolina. Congratulations! MANDY R. WOULFE, CPS ’09, won the 2014 Susan R. Meisinger Fellowship, an award given to human resources professionals demonstrating exemplary leadership.

2010s Starting Hearts, a nonprofit dedicated to saving lives with CPR and automated external defibrillator education and placement, appointed ALAN HIMELFARB, CPS ’10, as its executive director. J. JUSTIN HUTCHENS, CPS ’10, was recognized on Company Spotlight at INVESTTenneseeTM for his professional accomplishments. Hutchens is president, CEO and director of National Health Investors Inc. First River Energy LLC named REBECCA SCHUCKMAN, CPS ’10, senior scheduler and operations manager. Her responsibilities include transportation pricing, pipeline scheduling and contracts. The National Education Association (NEA) selected SARA BILL, CPS ’11, a teacher at South Middle School in Aurora, Colorado, as a facilitator for the NEA Great Public Schools Network, an online community where education support professionals, teachers, parents and community stakeholders can share ideas and resources to improve student success. DR. BRIAN DAVIDSON, RHCHP ’11, joined St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction, Colorado, as vice president of medical affairs and chief medical officer. Family Medical Center hired MATTHEW DAVY, CPS ’11, as clinic director. Davy brings seven years of leadership experience in health care to his new position.

WE REMEMBER WE ARE FOREVER GRATEFUL TO THESE LEADERS WHO POSITIONED REGIS FOR SUCCESS.

Father David M. Clarke, S.J. Father David M. Clarke, S.J., one of Regis University’s greatest and most influential leaders, recently passed away. Fr. Clarke first encountered Jesuit education at Gonzaga University, where he received a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degree in organic chemistry. He went on to earn a Ph.D. in physical chemistry from Northwestern University. His experiences with the Jesuit faith at Gonzaga inspired him to enter the Society of Jesus (Oregon Province) in 1953, and he was ordained a priest in 1964. Fr. Clarke pursued a professional career in academics and administrative positions at colleges across the United States and eventually became the 22nd president of Regis University in 1972. After stepping down from his 20year tenure as president, he served as chancellor for the University until retiring in 2012. Considered an educational entrepreneur, he was instrumental in founding the College for Professional Studies, which has brought educational opportunities to generations of adult learners. Later he formed the