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THE MAGAZINE OF ROCKHURST UNIVERSITY
Service and Learning
Students and faculty prove they make a powerful combination
LEADING THE WAY
“To me, leadership is all about the ripple effect we can instill in our community that will long outlast our physical time here on earth. My grandfather encouraged us to be more of a pipe, letting information and resources flow from us to others, versus a bucket, saving all the water for ourselves until we can’t physically take anything else on. I’m so grateful for my experience at Rockhurst that pushed me to become the leader I am today.” CAITLIN O’BYRNE WATERS, ’19 MBA Recipient of the 2019 ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award from the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce
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THE MAGAZINE OF ROCKHURST UNIVERSITY
FEATURES
DEPARTMENTS LEADING THE WAY Inside Front Cover
Caitlin O’Byrne Waters, ’19 MBA ROCK REPORT
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Institutional “Examen”
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Leadership Series
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Faculty Profile
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Athletics News
FOR ALUMNI Class Notes
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LEARN, SERVE, REFLECT, REPEAT When academics and service go hand in hand, the lessons can be powerful. As Rockhurst’s Center for Service Learning celebrates 25 years, the inspiring tales to tell are many.
16 BIG CHANGES COME TO SEDGWICK HALL The iconic façade will remain as this beloved building modernizes for 21st century health care education.
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Alumni Q&A
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Career Center
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In Memoriam
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Everyday Leaders
IN CLOSING Teresa Moerer, ’85
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TIME AND PLACE Inside Back Cover
Thursday, Nov. 14, 2019 On the cover: Lexie Ostrander, junior, works with third-grader Weston Meyer in a service-learning component of one of her education classes.
20 THE ART OF CHANGE Starting with St. Ignatius, Jesuits and their works have been on the forefront of innovation. A look at Rockhurst’s history shows we’re no exception.
ROCKHURST UNIVERSITY MISSION & VISION Rockhurst is a comprehensive university and a supportive community that forms lifelong learners in the Catholic, Jesuit, liberal arts tradition who engage with the complexities of our world and serve others as compassionate, thoughtful leaders. Our vision is to create a more just world through inclusive, innovative, and transformative education.
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FROM THE PRESIDENT
Reading the Signs of the Times
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eading the signs of the times, meeting people where they are, and being nimble in order to respond generously… This captures how Rockhurst University has operated, as a work of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), since its inception in 1910. This “way of proceeding” is seen in all Jesuit works and apostolates throughout the world. In 1540, Ignatius Loyola and his companions known as “the least Society of Jesus,” received approval, by Pope Paul III, as a male religious order of the Roman Catholic Church, through an instrument known as a papal bull, Regimini Militantis Ecclesiae. Ten years later, this document, The Formula of the Institute, was amended. Pope Paul III approved these changes through another papal bull, Exposcit Debitum. The Jesuits are known for many things but especially their schools and work in education. However, the original founding of the Jesuits took place without any specific mention of schools. Reading the signs of the times, attempting to meet people where they are, and responding generously, the Jesuits established their first school in Messina, Italy. It was in direct response to a request to educate the sons of the region. Two years later, these words were added to the Formula of the Institute: “…by means of public preaching, lectures and any other ministration whatsoever…” These words provided the Jesuits with their first rationale for nimbleness in responding generously to the needs of society and the Church. Subsequent thrusts have been enumerated in the 36 general congregations that have taken place since 1550. The changes incorporated into the foundational document reflect how the Society of Jesus desired to be attentive to the context of the world in which it found itself. Since inception, Jesuits and their companions have tried to read the signs of the times. This is not a matter of being whimsical or embracing the latest fad. Rather, by use of a discernment process, a choice is made between two goods in order that progress is made in the establishment of the kingdom of God and the salvation of souls. As a constitutive part of the Jesuit enterprise in higher education, Rockhurst University has regularly attempted to meet the needs of the region and the Church. In response to the Great Depression, it started offering instruction in business education. After World War II, an evening division was created. In 1979, a partnership in undergraduate
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nursing was undertaken with Research College. This was followed by programs in occupational therapy, communication sciences and disorders, and executive business education. In the last 15 years, partnerships with Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences and the University of Missouri-Kansas City Rev. Thomas B. Curran, S.J., produced MBA programs President, Rockhurst University for osteopathic physicians and undergraduate engineering, respectively. Three years ago, the University initiated a leadership program for priests and college courses for incarcerated women and correction officers. Now, the University is attempting to address the unmet need in nursing and health professions by acquiring Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences. An application for “a change of control” has been filed with the Higher Learning Commission. Determination is expected in spring 2020. Assuming approval, Rockhurst will grow its population by 20%. The program will be housed in the reimagined Sedgwick Hall. Completion of construction is anticipated in spring 2022. Until that time, the University will rent the existing program facility in Westport. In all instances, Rockhurst has and will continue to focus upon, create and enlarge programs that ensure critical thinking skills, lifelong learning, a quest for religious discovery and an engaged citizenry. On our bell tower, the following words are found: “Make decisions in light of what is truly for the greater glory of God and the service of those in need.” They come from an address given to graduates of Jesuit institutions by the Rev. Peter Hans Kolvenbach, S.J., 29th superior general of the Society of Jesus. Every day, we try to emphasize and amplify that exhortation by reading the signs of the times, meeting people where they are, and adapting so we can be generous in our response. It’s our way of proceeding.
ROCK REPORT
Official “Examen” Reaffirms Rockhurst University’s Catholic, Jesuit Identity
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n Ignatian spirituality, the “Examen” is a prayer that allows the pray-er to look back over the day, reviewing with the intent of “finding God in all things,” giving thanks for what went well and pausing to reflect on things that didn’t go well, finishing with a look toward the next day and what can be done better. Similarly, Rockhurst University recently underwent an institutional Examen that included a self-study and a peer review by a committee comprising administrators from sister institutions in the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities, which is leading this process across its 27 members. The goal is to ensure that all are faithful to their mission as Catholic, Jesuit universities and can continue to be known as such. In fall 2019, the two-year process concluded and the Rev. Arturo Sosa, S.J., the superior general of the Society of Jesus – the head of the Jesuit order – has confirmed the Jesuit and Catholic identity of Rockhurst University. “I am truly thankful for all of the members of our campus community who work daily to animate our mission,” said Rockhurst President the Rev. Thomas B. Curran, S.J. “This is evidenced in the successful results of our Examen, the care faculty and staff show in helping our students grow academic ally and spiritually, and the positive impact Rockhurst has on our community.” Many faculty, staff and students contributed to this effort through providing input, gathering information, writing and reviewing drafts and meeting with the peer-review committee during an on-site visit in fall 2018. The self-study prompted Rockhurst to look at how the mission is lived through seven characteristics of Jesuit colleges and universities: leadership’s commitment to the mission; the academic life; a Catholic, Jesuit campus culture; service; service to the local church; Jesuit presence; and integrity. “This institutional examen demonstrates that students and families looking for a vibrant Catholic, Jesuit educational experience will find that here at Rockhurst,” said Cindy Schmersal, vice president for mission and ministry.
RU, the magazine of Rockhurst University, is published by the Office of University Relations. EDITOR Katherine Frohoff, ’09 EMBA DESIGN JJB Creative Design CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sariana Barbarotta, freshman; Rev. Thomas B. Curran, S.J.; Jennifer Knobel; Tim Linn; Teresa Moerer, ’85 PHOTOGRAPHY Gabrielle Brancato, ’18; John Dodderidge; Estuardo Garcia, ’18 MA; FJ Gaylor Photography; Shea Geist, ’10, ’11 MBA; Helix Architecture + Design; Tim Linn; Mark McDonald; Coleen Smyth; John Sommers II; Marek Stor; Kathleen Strecker; Holly Sullivan, junior. SEND LETTERS TO Katherine Frohoff, Rockhurst University, 1100 Rockhurst Road, Kansas City, MO 64110-2561 or katherine.frohoff@rockhurst.edu 816-501-4151 RU magazine is printed on FSC certified uncoated paper.
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Former HP Leader, Presidential Candidate Carly Fiorina To Headline 2020 Leadership Series
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arly Fiorina — the first woman to lead a Fortune 50 company as well as a former U.S. presidential candidate, philanthropist and bestselling author, will headline the 2020 Rockhurst University Leadership Series, scheduled for 11:30 a.m. Thursday, March 5, at the Marriott Muehlebach Tower in Kansas City, Missouri. Fiorina’s presentation, titled “Leading for Good, Empowering People and Driving Innovation in the World Today,” will draw on her experience as president and CEO of Hewlett-Packard between 1999 and 2005 and her efforts since as chairwoman of Good360 and Opportunity International, aiming to help provide opportunity to millions around the globe.
Carly Fiorina
“Through my work with these organizations, I’ve met incredible people and learned a lot by hearing their stories,” Fiorina said. “It’s amazing to see people take charge in their own communities to solve the problems they face.”
2020 Rashford-Lyon Award for Leadership and Ethics During the luncheon, the University will honor five outstanding women who represent different eras of history at Rockhurst with the Rashford-Lyon Award for Leadership and Ethics. Though not a Rockhurst graduate herself (the University became coed in 1969), Jean Dunn represents the women whose hard work and support were the foundation of so many of Kansas City’s leaders. Marny Sherman, ’75, is a steadfast leader not only at Rockhurst University, but also in the Kansas City philanthropic community alongside her husband, John. Lisa Ginter, ’87, CEO of CommunityAmerica Credit Union, has regularly been listed among the most powerful and influential leaders in Kansas City. Wendy Doyle, ’94, president and CEO of Women’s Foundation, is a longtime nonprofit leader in the Kansas City area. Ama Karikari, M.D., ’07, helped organize the first of what has become an annual medical mission trip to Kobonal, Haiti. Bridgette Williams, ’16 EMBA, is the executive director of the Heavy Constructors Association of Greater Kansas City and former president of the Greater Kansas City AFL-CIO.
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FACULTY KUDOS Kirsten Potter, DPT, professor of physical therapy, co-authored an article with a number of recent Rockhurst physical therapy graduates titled “Reliability, Validity, and Responsiveness of the Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Mini-BESTest) in Ambulatory Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis,” which was published in the peerreviewed journal Physiotherapy Canada. Diego Gutierrez, DBA, assistant professor of marketing, was quoted in a story on KCUR FM about Kansas City tennis star Jack Sock choosing to pursue a singles career instead of doubles.
Glenn Young, Ph.D., associate professor of theology and religious studies, wrote an article titled “A Desire for Encounter with the Absolute: Néstor Paz and Revolutionary Mysticism,” which was published in “You Say You Want a Revolution?” 1968-2018 in Theological Perspective, the College Theology Society Annual Volume 64. Orbis Books, 2019.
NEWS
For more faculty news, visit rockhurst.edu/facultykudos.
With Fitness Center, Campus Community Invited to Get MACtive
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he latest addition to the campus landscape has Rockhurst University students breaking out in a sweat — in a good way.
In October, the doors opened for the first time to the Magis Activity Center (MAC), a 16,200-square-foot donor-funded building, located directly south of Bourke Field. Designed with student input, the MAC features a large fitness area with weights, machines, and cardio equipment; a separate studio-style room for classes; locker rooms for the men’s and women’s soccer teams; glass panels designed both for views of campus and to reduce solar heat gain; and the Jim and Ellen Glynn Alumni Commons, a multipurpose space for events, also overlooking Bourke Field. Other features include a “magis” core reflection site outside the commons and an assessment room, providing future learning opportunities for students in health-related degree programs. It adds up to a cornerstone of campus for years to come, steeped in the Jesuit notion of “ad majorem Dei gloriam.”
Senior Rosie Breheny, a member of the Rockhurst University women’s soccer team, joins Rock E. Hawk for a jog at the MAC.
“In every building that has that AMDG, as you move through the portals of that building, what you do there is for the greater glory of God,” said the Rev. Thomas B. Curran, S.J., Rockhurst University president, in remarks during the MAC’s dedication.
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Student Always Has Time for Those in Need
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Mac Dumsky, junior
eet Rockhurst junior Mac Dumsky: president of Student Senate at Rockhurst, vice president of education in Beta Theta Pi, member of Phi Delta Epsilon and a student ambassador. If that weren’t enough, he still makes time to volunteer at Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City and, in the past, Truman Medical Center. At Saint Luke’s, Dumsky volunteers in the emergency room department, where he prepares rooms and escorts patients. It can be a hectic, high-stress environment, but it has given him some crucial skills as a future health care provider. “I have learned to keep an open mind and to realize that there are people of all walks of life that you are going to meet on different days,” Dumsky said. “I’ve learned a lot about just being able to talk and communicate with people from all backgrounds.”
In the past, Dumsky’s volunteer work at Truman Medical Center involved playing games and talking with older patients needing long-term care. Across generations and experiences, he said he created many bonds with the patients, mentioning one woman in particular, with whom he related through a unique sense of humor that belied the difference in their ages. “She was very blunt and she told jokes about all the other people around,” Dumsky said. “She was very funny, and always made me laugh.” All of those opportunities and activities, on top of his school work, means Dumsky often stays very busy. “Some weeks I don’t have much extra time,” he said. But he wouldn’t change a thing — Dumsky said he is thankful for the experiences that Rockhurst, Saint Luke’s, and Truman Medical Center have provided him. He said they’ve changed his perspective and taught him valuable lessons that this biology major will take into the future.
“I have learned to keep an open mind and to realize that there are people of all walks of life that you are going to meet on different days.” – Mac Dumsky, junior
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ROCK REPORT
Chemistry Faculty Member Passes On Legacy
(From left) Lillian Odom, senior; Petia Bobadova, Ph.D., David Barbosa, senior
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hen it comes to chemistry, for Petia Bobadova, Ph.D., you could say it’s elemental.
The Rockhurst associate professor of chemistry has a long history with the subject, dating back nearly a century. Her grandmother was the first female chemical engineer in Bulgaria. Her mother, too, was a chemist. And before long, Bobadova, who was born in Bulgaria, said she found herself on that same path.
HEARD ON CAMPUS
“I got my first chemistry set when I was 6 years old,” she said. “I think that speaks for itself.” Unlike the previous two generations, Bobadova said she ultimately decided to teach the subject, rather than pursue a career in industry. But even that decision was in part out of gratitude for her mother, who helped her understand the subject when she just couldn’t get it to add up. “Something about the way she explained the logic of it worked, it clicked with me,” Bobadova said. “So I’m trying to do the same thing with my students today.” That means not only connecting in the classroom, but in the lab through undergraduate research projects. Since joining Rockhurst University in 2008, Bobadova has published 11 papers, six of which include undergraduate research students as co-authors. Currently, she is leading an ongoing project with her student research assistants to design molecules using computer modeling software. The goal is to produce compounds that can be synthesized and used in applications such as medical imaging and even in medical treatments. And she volunteers for an annual chemistry night at her daughter’s school. In the process, she might have secured another generation. “She currently writes ‘chemist’ in the yearbook when they ask what the students want to do,” Bobadova said.
“That spiritual current that brought me there was the wakeup — grace wakes us up. When we’re not awake, we can’t really act.” — Sister Helen Prejean speaking at Rockhurst University in November about the moment she devoted her life to ending capital punishment.
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Women’s Volleyball Finishes Strong, Advances to NCAA Semifinals
Volleyball head coach Tracy Rietzke, center, speaks to his players.
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he 2019 Rockhurst women’s volleyball season will be one of the most memorable seasons in school history. The Hawks (33-8) advanced to the NCAA national semifinals for the second time in three seasons and finished seventh in the final American Volleyball Coaches Association Division II Top 25 poll. Rockhurst captured the Great Lakes Valley Conference regular season and GLVC Tournament titles for the first time since joining the GLVC in 2005. The Hawks defeated three nationally ranked teams to win their third NCAA Midwest Regional championship since 2015. Head coach Tracy Rietzke was named the 2019 U.S. Marine Corps/American Volleyball Coaches Association Division II National Coach of the Year. Rietzke ranks first all-time in Division II with 1,277 victories and stands fourth in career victories for all three levels of NCAA women’s volleyball head coaches. “We had a great team with great assistants who did a great job preparing the team,” Rietzke said. “And the players; that’s what makes the team. Our five seniors did a great job with their leadership. I appreciate them so much. It was a great ride.” Senior outside hitters Karli Reichert, from Kansas City, Missouri, and Alyssa Woodman, from Omaha, Nebraska, finished their college careers as two-time AVCA All-Americans. Reichert was also named a first team CoSIDA Academic All-American with a 3.98 cumulative GPA. Over the past six years, the Hawks have compiled a 240-53 overall record. Rockhurst has appeared in six NCAA Tournaments and captured three Midwest Regional titles while winning 15 of 21 NCAA matches since 2014.
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ROCK REPORT
Student-Athletes Net NCAA Academic Honor For Ninth Straight Year
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hen it comes to in-classroom performance, Rockhurst University’s student-athletes have earned a little on-field celebration.
For the ninth year in a row, the University’s student-athletes earned the NCAA Presidents’ Award for Academic Excellence, boasting a four-year Academic Success Rate of 94%. ASR is a measure of the percentage of student-athletes who graduate within six years of their initial college enrollment. In addition to being 21 percentage points higher than the national average, the University’s ASR mark is also the best in the Great Lakes Valley Conference and among all other Division II schools in Missouri and Kansas. Nathan Mark, a junior history and political science major and infielder on the baseball team, said for many student-athletes, success in the classroom has a lot to do with team culture. “I have quite a few classes where I have a couple of teammates as classmates,” he said. “In these classes, we look after each other, recognizing that if one of us doesn’t succeed, it has bigger ramifications than one of us simply not passing the class.”
of student-athletes at Rockhurst University graduate within six years of their initial college enrollment, the highest among GLVC schools and all Division II schools in Missouri and Kansas.
Women’s Soccer Makes NCAA Tournament Appearance Junior Jillian Leetch (No. 14), named third team All-American and second team Scholar All-American by the United Soccer Coaches, helped lead the women’s soccer team to a 14-5-1 finish and an appearance in the NCAA Division II national tournament.
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Women’s Cross Country Goes the Distance
The women’s cross country team competed at the NCAA Midwest Regional meet in November.
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his season, one Rockhurst University athletics program earned its first chance to go against national competition.
The Hawks women’s cross country team qualified for the NCAA Midwest Regional Tournament, taking its top seven runners to Evansville, Indiana, to run the six-kilometer Angel Mounds track. The appearance capped a season that included the Hawks capturing the team title at the Cottey College Invitational and taking fourth place at the GLVC championships. At regionals, the squad finished in 17th place. They were led by Emily Dickson, sophomore, who finished first for the Hawks in 74th place, and Sarah Harig, a student in the master of occupational therapy program, who finished second in 83rd place. Coach Kathy Strecker was proud of the team’s achievements. “Placing fourth at the GLVC meet and earning the opportunity to race at the NCAA Midwest Regional was definitely a highlight of the season,” Strecker said. “Their positive team culture impacted all aspects of cross country and it was an honor to coach this team.”
Two Hawks Hoops Teammates Achieve 1,000 Points Two players on the Hawks men’s basketball team hit the 1,000-point mark this season: Curtis Lewis, junior from Kansas City, Missouri, and Quinton Curry, junior from West Des Moines, Iowa. They are the 19th and 20th players, respectively, in Rockhurst history to do so. Quinton Curry, junior
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Curtis Lewis, junior
ROCK REPORT
Hawks Lacrosse Player Lends Skills To Polish National Team
Freshman Jakob Setley playing for the Polish National Team in the European Junior Lacrosse Championship in Czech Republic in summer 2019.
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his spring, freshman Jake Setley will begin his journey as a member of the Rockhurst University men’s lacrosse team. But his journey in the sport spans more than one squad – and more than one continent. Since summer 2019, Setley has been part of the national team for Poland, joining the squad in the European Junior Lacrosse Championships. He’s eligible thanks to his grandfather, he said, who is 100% Polish.
It was an experience many don’t get, spending six days at a training camp to prepare and then eight more in Prague, Czech Republic, competing in the European Junior Lacrosse Championships. The team played one game a day, allowing Setley and his teammates to soak in the atmosphere. For someone passionate about the sport of lacrosse, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity, one that resulted in lasting bonds among his international teammates, even after the tournament ended.
“I talk to the Polish players on a weekly basis,” Setley said. This summer, he plans to do it all again, returning to Poland for training camp and then traveling to Limerick, Ireland, for the World Junior Lacrosse Championships. “Teams from all around the world will be there, and after my experience this summer, I am beyond excited to play in it,” Setley said. Before that global venture, Setley said he is looking forward to taking Bourke Field with a Hawks team looking to continue their recent run of success. “My favorite part of being on the team has been building relationships with all the guys,” Setley said. “They welcomed me and the other freshmen with open arms.”
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(From left) Kaitie Portell, freshman; Sarah Wilson, freshman; and Zach Ellis, junior; tutor chemistry students at a Kansas City high school.
Learn, Serve, Reflect, Repeat
For 25 years, the Center for Service Learning has shown that serving the community is not just the right thing to do, it also helps students academically.
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BY KATHERINE FROHOFF, ’09 EMBA
our Rockhurst University students — three of them freshmen — stand in front of a chemistry class at a high school near campus expecting to help with the day’s lesson. What happens next is both a testament to their ingenuity and proof that service in the community can amp up learning in ways that sitting at a desk cannot. As the high schoolers continue to talk, joke and play with their phones, the teacher tells the RU students that Friday is career day and they don’t need to focus on chemistry. Then she sits down. It’s time to improvise. In a calm voice, Sarah Wilson, a freshman from Olathe, Kansas, asks the students for their attention and the four begin sharing stories about beefing up college applications with volunteer experience and quizzing the students about what they want to do with their lives. Among the aspirations are neurologist, neonatal nurse and dental hygienist.
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“At a Jesuit university, it’s not education for education’s sake. We want our students to go out in the world and do good.” —Julia Vargas, Ed.D., director of the Center for Service Learning With a rapport established, the talk quickly turns back to chemistry and the four tag-team an impromptu lesson, complete with flipchart notes and diagrams. The visit is part of a general chemistry honors class taught by Annie Lee, Ph.D., professor of chemistry. And that makes it service learning. Service learning is different from volunteer service because it is tied to academic learning as part of a class and has additional goals above and beyond contributing to communities. Like many other Jesuit universities, Rockhurst was at the onset of institutionalizing service learning, according to Julia Vargas, Ed.D., director of the Center for Service Learning, which just celebrated its 25th year in 2019. “At a Jesuit university, it’s not education for education’s sake. We want our students to go out in the world and do good, just like the quote on our bell tower,” Vargas said. “Service learning falls right in line with Jesuit pedagogy – you have an experience, you reflect on it and you go back to see what needs to be done differently.” Lee has been taking her students to the public high school since 2006 and she said the learning happens with both groups of students.
Jordan Rehmer, junior, works with third graders Larson Robinson and Hayley Hellen at St. Ann Catholic School in Prairie Village, Kansas.
“Our students will learn chemistry better because they have to work on their communication skills, how to relate to the high school students and how to get their point across,” Lee said. “Explaining difficult concepts in different ways reinforces their own learning.”
More importantly, the learning isn’t confined to the field of chemistry. Lee said the resources at the high school are different from those at the high schools most Rockhurst University students attended and many times their eyes are opened to the challenges these students will face when they attend college. “I was surprised by the inequality between my high school and this one,” said Kaitie Portell, freshman. “The learning environment does not make it easy for them. I hope by continuing to go I can help make it easier for students to learn and influence their future.” Across the state line in Prairie Village, Kansas, juniors Jordan Rehmer and Lexie Ostrander also take part in a classroom service-learning experience but with much younger children and in a way that lets them test drive their future career choice. Continued on page 14
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The elementary education majors present Junior Achievement lessons to third graders in Jennifer Schafer’s classroom at St. Ann Catholic School. Using their best “teacher voices,” the two lead the children in creating paper cutout buildings for a tabletop 3D city. “We love working with them and it gives us confidence,” Ostrander said. “It reaffirms for me this is what I want to do and that I can pull it off.” If you associate philosophy more with thinking than with acting, you may want to have a conversation with Rob Vigliotti, Ph.D., associate professor of philosophy. “We talk a lot about the common good — if others aren’t living a good life then I’m not living a good life either,” Vigliotti said. “For some folks, it’s hard to hear that because they’ve only been focused on their own advancement and success. It’s very much part of the Catholic tradition, but some students are hearing that for the first time.” Vigliotti said it wouldn’t make much sense to just sit in a classroom and study prominent philosophers’ thoughts on this rather than putting their ideas into action. He says he encourages students to find a place where they can serve and to use it as a laboratory to confirm or contradict philosophical theories. You might not think an animal shelter lends itself to this and neither did junior Holly Sullivan. “All I did was pet dogs and play with cats,” she said. But then she started doing research using her volunteer role at Wayside Waifs as a foundation. For Vigliotti’s ethical theory class, Sullivan explored the shelter’s no-kill policy, contrasting Immanuel Kant’s idea that animals do not have rights with Aristotle’s six virtues and how they might align with animal rights.
“My philosophy on how to treat my patients will be to focus on each one as an individual and give them the best care that I can.” —Holly Sullivan, junior Holly Sullivan, junior, wrote a philosophy paper based on her service at Wayside Waifs.
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“It opened my mind a lot more. I interact with animals all the time, but I wondered if they can love. I agree with Aristotle that they do have capacities to think and to love. It made me change my viewpoint to want to help animals as much as I can.” And, for Sullivan, that implication has parallels for the work she wants to do after completing her bachelor’s degree in the physics of medicine at Rockhurst and a master’s in prosthetics and orthotics. “My philosophy on how to treat my patients will be to focus on each one as an individual and give them the best care that I can,” she said. During his very first semester as a freshman at Rockhurst, David Wallisch, ’12, ’13 MBA, took an English course from Dan Martin, Ph.D., associate professor of English, who incorporates service learning experiences into many of his courses. For this one, Wallisch had to perform a required number of service hours and write a research paper that related to the experience. Wallisch, now the subsidiary controller at Midway Ford Truck Center in Kansas City, Missouri, chose to serve meals at St. James Place food pantry and food kitchen. He recalls that he wrote a paper about the local bus system. “I learned a bit about writing research papers, and about Kansas City’s bus system, but I learned a great deal more about contemplation in action,” Wallisch said.
David Wallisch, ’12, ’13 MBA, served at St. James Place food pantry when he was a student at Rockhurst.
Some of those lessons have stayed with Wallisch far beyond his college days. He recalls how he was particularly struck by one of the guests at St. James Place who made a lasting impression — Dwayne. Even though Dwayne was having trouble receiving disability checks and his motorized wheelchair wasn’t working properly, he began helping Wallisch clean up following the evening meal one night. “Times were obviously tough for Dwayne, and I made a comment to him that he didn’t need to help clean up,” Wallisch said. “Dwayne responded to me with ‘I try to do a little bit of good wherever I go.’” Wallisch said he still takes Dwayne’s example to heart and works to emulate it by also doing a little bit of good wherever he goes. Following that first service-learning class, Wallisch continued volunteering at St. James Place throughout his undergraduate and graduate years at Rockhurst. For his 21st birthday, he turned his celebration into one for St. James Place, raising $2,100 in honor of the occasion and baking enough cupcakes for all the guests to enjoy during his volunteer shift. It is easy to find the good in that, even without writing a reflection paper.
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Big Changes
Come to Sedgwick Hall Iconic façade to remain as beloved building modernizes for 21st century health care education.
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BY JENNIFER KNOBEL
hether you graduated five years or five decades ago, Sedgwick Hall was likely a big part of your Rockhurst experience. Throughout its lifetime, this iconic building has served as the high school, college, Jesuit residence, a residence hall and, of course, an academic building. The time has come, once again, for Sedgwick to begin a new chapter, including a major renovation. Its next challenge? To lead Rockhurst into a new era of health science education as the home of the Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences at Rockhurst University, pending approval from regulatory bodies in early 2020. “Sedgwick is a quintessential part of Rockhurst’s history,” said Mary Mooney Burns, ’93, vice president for university advancement. “Our alumni and donor community has stepped up tremendously to help us preserve and enhance it. With their continued support, we can reach our final goal and keep this project on schedule.” The repurposing of Sedgwick Hall is a cornerstone of the University’s current $55 million comprehensive campaign, and an additional $6 million is needed to begin the major part of the reconstruction. Recognizing the historical significance of the building, the project’s steering committee purposefully chose a design that preserves much of the castle-like façade. “Ninety percent to be exact,” said Jason Riordan, ’05, associate vice president of facilities, whose grandfather also used Sedgwick as a student back in the 1940s. “It is the original campus structure and we want to pay homage to that.” Within the 55,000-square-foot renovated facility, Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences will offer associate-level allied health programs, undergraduate and graduate nursing programs and post-graduate certificates in nursing. Demand for jobs in these fields, specifically nursing, is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of registered nurses in the State of Missouri alone is projected to grow 16% by 2026. Continued on page 18
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“Sedgwick is a quintessential part of Rockhurst’s history. Our alumni and donor community has stepped up tremendously to help us preserve and enhance it.” —Mary Mooney Burns, ’93, vice president for university advancement Top: Once completed, Sedgwick Hall will integrate technology-enabled learning studios for large groups of students. Bottom: A rendering of Sedgwick Hall shows the glass façade facing Kinerk Commons.
Continued on page 18
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Continued from page 17
“The renovation is truly a collaboration between RU and Saint Luke’s,” said Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., president and CEO of Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences. “It’s a union of two strong Kansas City institutions, which had the vision of joining forces to address the educational and health care needs of our region. Sedgwick Hall will house this magic, becoming a premier location for academic innovation – an environment for health sciences students to flourish.” With most of the Troost-side façade intact, the renovation will expose the quad-side of the structure with a wall of glass, mixing modern and historical elements. In addition to classrooms and study spaces, the building will feature an impressive simulation lab.
The renovated Sedgwick Hall will include flexible common areas alongside classroom space.
“It’s a union of two strong Kansas City institutions, which had the vision of joining forces to address the educational and health care needs of our region. Sedgwick Hall will house this magic, becoming a premier location for academic innovation – an environment for health sciences students to flourish.” —Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., president and CEO of Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences
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FEATURES
“The lab will be a wonderful addition to campus, allowing students to sharpen their skills in a controlled environment,” said Kris Vacek, OTD, dean of the College of Health and Human Services. “I think one of the most exciting elements is the additional interprofessional education opportunities the lab brings. This means a nursing student can now call on a physical or occupational therapy student for input and vice versa, creating opportunities to become more familiar with different types of health care practices. Currently, our OT and PT students have to travel to other locations to do this.” “It’s a more robust experience for all involved,” said Benitez. “And that goes beyond academics. Saint Luke’s will bring a different demographic of students to campus – more diverse, many nontraditional, first-generation and adult learners. This is added value that can only enrich the RU experience, while making a societal change; one student and one family at a time.” Another exciting element of the project is the addition of associate degrees, making Rockhurst one of the few Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities institutions to do so. “There are so many associate degrees in health care fields that Rockhurst could start to offer now with these new resources in place,” said Vacek. “I can see students earning their associate degree, and creating a pathway into a bachelor’s or even a master’s down the road.” The steering committee has also decided to leave some unfinished space in Sedgwick for future programming needs. “Academic program growth is inevitable,” said Riordan. “To ensure we have room to grow, the fourth floor will be what’s called ‘warm shell space,’ which means we’ll complete basic construction with no finishes, just a space that is ready for subsequent development.” As for the timeline, interior demolition work is underway, with construction beginning October 2020 and doors opening in August 2022. Reaching the project’s total cost of $23 million will help keep the timeline on track, according to Burns. “We’re at an exciting intersection of growth and tradition,” said Burns. “I am proud that Rockhurst continues to monitor the landscape of educational need, and that we’re constantly looking at how to meet that need. This project is just another example of RU having that foresight.”
The view of Sedgwick Hall from Troost Avenue.
Want to learn about Sedgwick Hall giving and naming opportunities? Contact Mary Mooney Burns at mary.burns@rockhurst.edu. ROCKHURST.EDU
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The Art of Change
BY TIM LINN
From St. Ignatius onward, Jesuits have been on the forefront of discovery and innovation. With a solid base of core values, they read the signs of the times to recreate the ways in which to reach people. At Rockhurst, this way of proceeding has even been written into the University’s strategy.
In September, the University held a blessing for the Kateri Community, an all-new housing option for students interested in environmental sustainability or growing in their Catholic faith.
L
ooking to the new is nothing new for the Society of Jesus.
For centuries, the Jesuits have been on the frontier of education, a perspective that lives on to this day in an approach to teaching and learning that welcomes new ideas and perspectives. In other words, of meeting people where they are. Rockhurst University’s most recent strategic plan makes that clear, emphasizing the importance of innovation and reinvention in all facets of University life — in curriculum, in administration and planning, and in student life. “Be a leader in educational innovation” is the first pillar of “Go Forth,” the 2018-2023 strategic plan, setting a tone for the University’s direction moving forward.
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FEATURES
“There is a continuous process in higher education of reinventing. If you look back, from the land grant institutions to the community college system, there has been always evolution in higher education.” —Doug Dunham, Ph.D., provost and senior vice president of academic affairs According to Doug Dunham, Ph.D., provost and senior vice president of academic affairs, innovation is not just an initiative, it’s a necessity. And that’s not at all out of step with history. “There is a continuous process in higher education of reinventing,” he said. “If you look back, from the land grant institutions to the community college system, there always has been evolution in higher education.” A major driver of current changes is in the numbers, Dunham said. The college-eligible population is expected to decline in the near future, and while on one hand 65% of all jobs in the United States are expected to require Senior Dana Randolph leads an activity in the STEAM Studio Popup inside the some form of post-secondary education Greenlease Library. by 2025, fewer than half are expected to require a four-year degree. That’s not to say a high-quality, nontraditional students and adult learners. As leaders at four-year Jesuit education will disappear, but it does ask that the University have repeatedly pointed out, it will likely leaders expand the notion of what a Jesuit education can be. transform Rockhurst. “Employers tell us we produce thoughtful, compassionate leaders, but students’ expectations about what they are looking for when they get here continues to change,” he said. “And as the number of adult learners grows, we’re finding more people who want to ‘upskill’ — they’re looking for development, not necessarily a full degree.” In July, Rockhurst announced an affiliation agreement with Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences, paving the way for what, if approved, will be known as Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences at Rockhurst University. In addition to a bachelor’s degree in nursing, it will result in new graduate degree programs, an expanded array of online programs and two-year associate degree programs geared toward
That future brings both significant opportunities and challenges, a space where innovation often thrives. Mandi Sonnenberg, Ed.D., associate professor of education, knows this, having five years ago founded STEAM Studio in partnership with Gould Evans architecture firm and since opened a STEAM Studio popup in Greenlease Library. Using principles of design thinking, a unique approach to problem-solving, as well as collaboration, students in STEAM Studio face difficult challenges. And she’s seen how those circumstances often inspire new kinds of solutions. “Everyone rises to the occasion, and it’s surprising to watch as that process of coming up with something totally new is created,” she said. Continued on page 22
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“Everyone rises to the occasion, and it’s surprising to watch as that process of coming up with something totally new is created,” —Mandi Sonnenberg, Ed.D., associate professor of education
An affiliation between the University and the Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences will, if approved, provide much-needed health care professionals to the region.
Continued from page 21
That same willingness to look at challenges from new angles can be seen across the University. Nancy Donaldson, Ph.D., professor of physics, designed the physics of medicine curriculum, which teaches concepts from physics through their application in the health care fields, to attract medical students to that field. It has been a success at Rockhurst, and a National Science Foundation grant will help introduce those resources on a national scale. On the housing side, the University opened the Kateri Community, a new housing option for students passionate about growing in their Catholic faith and environmental sustainability. Dunham said newer majors at Rockhurst are also rooted in collaboration and responding to new trends. Material science, peace and international studies, and the Bachelor of Science in analytics and technology are all the result of forward-looking interdisciplinary work and in response to what students are looking for.
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Through all of the change, Dunham said it is important to stay true to the Jesuit mission and core values while navigating this new terrain. The Rev. Steve Katsouros, S.J., a guest of the University’s Visiting Scholar Lecture Series in fall 2019 and dean of Arrupe College, a trailblazing two-year institution at Loyola University Chicago, said innovation naturally complements the Jesuit calling in education (see Fr. Curran’s column on Page 2). Arrupe College helps students on the margins succeed with both financial and academic support. Innovating in all directions, he said, is critical, because at the end of the day, the opportunities that a college education afford is social justice in action. “We know that colleges and universities have been the engines of social mobility,” he said. “What we’ve learned as a culture is that the more people are educated, the better it is for the country and for our individual communities.”
FEATURES
Since its founding, Rockhurst has placed itself on the frontier:
1909
The Rev. Michael Dowling, S.J., purchases 25 acres of land on what is the southern edge of Kansas City with the intention of founding a Jesuit school — a risky bet in an area of town without a sizable Catholic population.
1933
The evening division at then-Rockhurst College is established, the first institution in the Kansas City area to offer educational opportunities for working adults.
1940
The Institute of Social Order is founded, recognized nationally for a unique approach to education that included the Labour School, offering college courses to industrial workers.
1969
Recognizing changing times, Rockhurst becomes coed.
1978
Rockhurst launches the executive MBA program, a nationally pioneering business education program designed for established organizational leaders.
1983
The School of Management is established, one of the first such divisions in the area.
2005
Responding to technological needs of students, Rockhurst installs the first campuswide wireless internet network in the Kansas City region.
2019
Rockhurst University announces affiliation agreement with Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences, opening new educational opportunities to nontraditional students.
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Justin Johnson, ’06, IT systems manager for the Kansas City Chiefs, and Clark Hunt, chairman and CEO of the Chiefs,
with the AFC championship Lamar Hunt Trophy. The team went on to win the Vince Lombardi Trophy in the Super Bowl. WINTER 2020
FOR ALUMNI
CLASS NOTES
’49 Bro. Harold Naudet, member of the Congregation of
STAY CONNECTED
Holy Cross, returned to the United States to seek medical treatment after serving in the Brazilian missions from 1961 to December 2018. He is currently recovering.
David Messina published How2Lead, A Practical Everyday Guide For Managers and Leaders.
’65 Sam Enna was awarded the Otto Krayer Award from the
American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics and in November 2019 was named a foreign honor member of the Chinese Pharmacological Society, only the second person to receive this honor.
’71 Terry Dunn, former CEO of JE Dunn Construction Co.,
appeared on the 435 magazine list of Kansas City’s 50 most powerful people.
’74 The Rev. William G. Hubmann recently celebrated the
40th anniversary of his ordination as a priest. He is now retired and living in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
’80
John Stephens has been named to the board of directors of Freeport-McMoRan Inc.
’81
Linda Romey was elected to the board of directors for Communicators for Women Religious at the organization’s conference in October.
’83
Sheryl Brown has retired after 25 years of service with Hallmark.
’87
Lisa Ginter, member of the Rockhurst University Board of Trustees, was included in the Kansas City Business Journal national list of the most influential financial executives. She also appeared on 435 magazine’s list of Kansas City’s 50 most powerful people.
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’63
You’re part of the Rockhurst University community. That means you belong to an organization that’s changing the world one leader at a time. Don’t miss out on news meant for you. Go to engage.rockhurst.edu/
register/update and update your information today.
Be sure to share your email address to receive the latest University and alumni news.
Lynnette Procopio joined the Excelsior Springs School District No. 40 as the director of technology services. She previously served as manager of enterprise systems and technology support services with the Kansas City Public Schools.
’88
Dan Charles has joined Cohen & Steers as head of global distribution.
’88, ’96 MBA
Mark Carden has been named manager of continuous improvement at AT&T.
’88 MBA Kevin Barth, chairman and CEO of Commerce Bank
Kansas City, appeared on 435 magazine’s list of Kansas City’s 50 most powerful people.
’90 Joseph Arnone was one of 18 men accepted as a candidate
in the diaconate formation program in the Diocese of Kansas City-St Joseph. He is scheduled to be ordained a deacon in June 2022. Paula (Laughlin) Crozier was named director of marketing for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Omaha, Nebraska.
’93 Steve Dietze has been named senior vice president, business development, at EFC Systems.
The editorial staff reserves the right to edit for content, accuracy and length, and cannot guarantee that items received will appear in the magazine. Publication of an item does not constitute endorsement by Rockhurst University.
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››››››››››››› SUBMIT
A CLASS NOTE
We’d love to hear from you. Submit a class note online at engage.rockhurst.edu/register/update
’93 MBA George Guastello, president and
’00, ’07 MBA Brenna Saunders, of Creative
’94 Tim Bischof has been appointed chief
’01 Beth Copeland was added as an
’94 MBA Cary Shippert was named director
’02 MBA Richard Wallace has been named
CEO of Union Station, was among the leaders listed on 435 magazine’s list of Kansas City’s 50 most powerful people.
risk officer at CNO Financial Group.
of health care and science/technology for the Southeast division of Gilbane Building Company.
attorney in the litigation practice group at Taft Stettinius & Hollister in Indianapolis.
director of baccalaureate programs at Donnelly College.
’95 Emily Cisneros has been named to
’03 EMBA Craig Denson, CFO at HNTB
’97
Molly Rothove, of Creative Planning Inc., was recently named to Barron’s 2019 list of the nation’s top 100 women financial advisers.
the ethics commission of the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas, and to the board of trustees for Bishop Ward High School.
Keith Allen (Kotansky) was hired as an adjunct professor of MRI physics and instrumentation at College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn, Illinois.
’98 Phil Buttell, M.H.S.A., J.D., has
been named CEO of Menorah Medical Center in Overland Park, Kansas.
’00
The Rev. Luke (Jeffrey) Turner was ordained to the priesthood June 29, 2019, on the feast of Saints Peter and Paul. He is currently working as director of college ministry at Benedictine College.
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Planning Inc., was recently named to Barron's 2019 list of the nation's top 100 women financial advisers.
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Corp., was named CFO of the Year by the Environmental Financial Consulting Group.
’03 Vanessa Lillie was interviewed
by 435 magazine about the cover image of her debut novel, Little Voices, appearing in an article in The New York Times. Matt Wilson, chief investment officer at Keen Wealth Advisors, was featured in a story about the Advisor Thought Leader Summit held at Rockhurst University that appeared on Yahoo! Finance.
’04
Missouri Sen. John Rizzo was a guest on the Politically Speaking podcast where he discussed growing up in politics with St. Louis Public Radio’s Julie O’Donoghue and Jaclyn Driscoll. The Honorable Cory L. Atkins was appointed circuit judge for the 16th Judicial Circuit by Gov. Mike Parson.
’06 MBA Nancy Keil was profiled in
the Nashville Business Journal. Keil is the president and CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee. Randy Lopez was elected to the USD 500 School Board in Kansas City, Kansas.
’07 Hannah Smith-Brown was named global project manager, customer insights and intelligence at MCM Worldwide.
Cristil (Blount) Miranda, was featured in Ingram’s magazine “Corporate Report 100” list of fast-growing Kansas City companies. The company of which she is founder and owner, Platinum Painting, was listed at No. 9.
’08 M.ED. Carmen Denvir married Brian Denvir in April 2019 in Scottsdale, Arizona.
’09 Samantha Whited Fechter was
featured in the June/July issue of Catholic St. Louis magazine, a publication of the Archdiocese of St. Louis.
&
QA
FOR ALUMNI
WITH STEFANI WEEDEN-SMITH, ’93
Stefani Weeden-Smith is the assistant director for community engagement at the Washington University-St. Louis Gephardt Institute for Civic and Community Engagement. In addition to her B.S.B.A. from Rockhurst, she holds a Master of Professional Studies in creative arts therapy and creative development from the Pratt Institute. Q: Tell us a little about your work. A: My work really is in service to students, staff and faculty — helping them think about what community engagement is. I consider myself a convener and a connector. We look at how we can funnel our resources, starting with the brainpower of our researchers, to impact regional challenges and priorities. Our students can learn by seeing their academics at play outside of the classroom. For community members, a private institution can sometimes seem elitist and our work can show them another side. Q: How did you become interested in community engagement? A: I knew I wanted to start doing this work when I was at Rockhurst, where there was a focus on doing good for all. After earning my graduate degree, I did a lot of work in New York with teenagers around HIV and AIDS prevention and positive sexual health and education. The degree in art therapy really grounded me in listening deeply and learning people’s story — how they find those places of strength and power within themselves. I became interested in supporting those innate efforts. Q: What advice do you have for someone who believes things in their own community need to change? A: What I tell students who are ready to graduate is that sometimes we think we need to do grand gestures like running for office. For me, it has been putting in the time, going to neighborhood association meetings and getting involved in things going on in my neighborhood. You may not have a ton of time or money, but what are some of the things where you can contribute your time and talent, where you think things can happen?
Q: Give us an example of a project or partnership you’ve worked on that has been very meaningful to you. A: Our Civic Engagement Fund, which I oversee, funded a project led by a faculty member in our landscape architecture program to create the Enright Community Butterfly Garden. The result is a communal space for neighbors to gather created in a vacant lot. What was neat is that he really spent time communicating with neighbors about what they wanted and needed. Not only did he help build the relationships that allowed a community voice in it, he created roles for the community members to take ownership and sustain the garden going forward. Q: If you could change one thing in your community, what would it be? A: I would love to see St. Louis and many parts of our country to not be segregated, and not just by race. We as a society have so many people and stories who live side by side and we’re not building on that. Q: How did your time at Rockhurst University influence your career path? A: Learning about nonprofits and community organizing, being rooted in a Jesuit education with all of our philosophy and theology credits, made me want to be involved in giving back. I was practical in getting a business degree but wanted to use it in a different way. I wanted to be able to not just make money, but to use my skills and resources to influence community discussion. For me, Rockhurst affirmed that was a possibility.
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’10 Alexandra Bashkiroff and
her husband, Nathan Dunn, welcomed their second daughter, Alice Rose, on Jan. 5, 2019. Their oldest, Anne Halcombe, is 3 years old. Jamie Bovay spoke at Hips Don’t Lie, a workshop discussing how to unlock and mobilize the hips, in Denver, Colorado. Jesse Civello opened Precision Physical Therapy, a physical therapy practice in downtown Clayton, Missouri.
’11 MBA Eli Medina was highlighted by C You in the Major Leagues Foundation for her work on their mentoring program.
’12 Michael Purk started a new job at Salesforce. ’13 Katelin (Saalfeld) Heim was promoted to marketing
director at Unboxed Training and Technology a Richmond, Virginia, based company.
’14 Josh Tols was the subject of an article in the Philadelphia Inquirer about his path to a professional baseball career.
’15 Taylor Skala married Chris Sares, whom she met while she was studying at Rockhurst University and living in Kansas City, at her hometown church.
’15 MBA Emily Bordner was featured in a Kansas City Business
Journal article about her journey from Hallmark to her owning her own brick and mortar business, EB and Co.
’16 Carmelita Bahamonde was interviewed by Univision about English Language Learner (ELL) classes at the Mid-Continent Public Library. She developed the courses and hired the instructors. In addition, she recently enrolled in the master of library science program at Emporia State University.
Adam Fatkin is working as a physical therapist in the Louisville, Kentucky, area.
’14 MBA Jill McKay Wilson has been named chief operating officer at LegacyBox.
’15 Truit Gray is currently in a Ph.D. program at Oklahoma State University.
Sean Kane has started a Ph.D. program in history at Binghamton University in Binghamton, New York.
CONNECT WITH ROCKHURST UNIVERSITY
››››››››››››››››››››››››››
through your favorite social networks.
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’15 Shauna Krause married Rashad Krause (AlSabban), ’17 DPT, July 12, 2019, at Christ Community Church in Kansas City’s Brookside neighborhood. Several Rockhurst alumni were in attendance.
FOR ALUMNI
CAREER CENTER From Idea to Reality: Meet the Inventor of Shark OFF
F
or some, the thought of swimming in open ocean water is a dream come true. For others, especially those unfamiliar with the ocean, like Shea Geist ’10, ’11 MBA, it sounded terrifying. That is why she and her husband, Geoff, invented Shark OFF shark repellent jewelry. The idea was born when the couple was watching a PBS documentary called “How to Repel a Shark Attack: Hunting the Elements.” “They were interviewing one of the scientists who discovered the technology we use in Shark OFF,” said Geist. “We couldn’t understand why this idea wasn’t being sold in every beach shop as a consumer product. At that point, it was only used in research to reduce shark bycatch in commercial fishing.” Geist instantly had a connection to the technology. “We had recently returned from Kauai where it took me two days to find the courage to swim in an enclosed ocean area,” she said. “I want to teach my son to be strong and brave – maybe some kind of repellent would put my mind at ease?” The couple filed their idea away until going through the Kauffman FastTrac program. “That was it,” she said. “Everyone was interested. We set up our LLC right after that.” From there came years of research and product development, including testing five different alloys with the Bimini Biological Field Station Foundation in the Bahamas. “The first four did not work,” said Geist. “We had little hope in the fifth one because it had slightly less voltage, but sure enough it worked.”
Shea,’10, ’11 MBA, Max and Geoff Geist
“Sharks can actually sense five one-billionths of a volt,” she said. “We put the alloy into a seven-shark feeding frenzy in open water and, sure enough, every single shark did a 180-degree turn away from the bait. It’s a moment we’ll never forget.” Geist attributes some of her success to her RU education. “I absolutely feel like that played a role in this. The finance, business analysis and accounting classes definitely gave me a leg-up. The commitment to service also guides our business practices. We want to use this opportunity to make the world a better place. We’re saving sharks, one human at a time. ” In addition to helping fearful ocean goers, the Geists’ invention also aids sustainability efforts, with 10 percent of proceeds going to the Ocean Voyage Institute, which redirects existing commercial fishing resources to clean up the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.
Voltage? Yes. The alloy in Shark OFF bracelets creates about 1.5-volts in a one-meter-wide electrical field – a voltage humans cannot sense but sharks can.
“We couldn’t understand why this idea wasn’t being sold in every beach shop as a consumer product. At that point, it was only used in research to reduce shark bycatch in commercial fishing.” —Shea Geist ’10, ’11 MBA ROCKHURST.EDU
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UPCOMING EVENTS MARCH 5
APRIL 4
APRIL 5
JUNE 29
KANSAS CITY RU Leadership Series
KANSAS CITY Alumni Medical Network
ST. LOUIS Palm Sunday Mass and Brunch
KANSAS CITY Fr. Joseph M. Freeman, S.J., Rockhurst Cup
Alumni medical professionals return to campus to meet and mentor current pre-health students.
Rockhurst President the Rev. Thomas. B. Curran, S.J., celebrates Mass at this popular annual tradition.
Support Rockhurst University athletes while enjoying a round of golf.
Carly Fiorina speaks on “Leading for Good, Empowering People and Driving Innovation in the World Today.”
›››››››››››››››››››››››››› For more information, visit rockhurst.edu/alumni Doug Lindsay was featured in local and nationwide news coverage, including on CNN and Good News Network, focused on his long journey to diagnose and develop a cure for a mysterious illness that postponed the completion of his bachelor’s degree.
’17 EMBA Paul Twenter was hired as the chief analytics officer at Joined Life Unlimited, Inc.
’18 Vanessa Beltran was named Rookie Nurse of the Year at Children’s Mercy Hospital.
Anna Lister was featured in Missouri Meetings and Events for having recently joined the Destination St. Louis team.
’16, ’17 MBA Michael Meier, ’17 MBA, married Chelsea Zacharias, ’17 OT, on Sept. 21, 2019. A number of Rockhurst alumni and staff attended the wedding.
’17 Garret Loehr recently had his second book
’19 Maria Montgomery was named HR coordinator at Lever1.
1980 RETRO
ROCKHURST
published, Love Stories From College.
’17 Andrea and Paul Dean, ’17, ’19 MBA,
were married Dec. 1, 2018, in St. Louis, Missouri. The couple now lives in Overland Park, Kansas. Andrea is a pediatric oncology nurse at Children’s Mercy Hospital and Paul is working at UMB. The Hawks fan section at Bourke Field celebrates with cheers and confetti during a soccer game.
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WINTER 2020
FOR ALUMNI
HAWK HANGOUT After you leave the Rockhurst University campus, you remain a Hawk for life. Connect with Hawks in your hometown by checking the calendar at rockhurst.edu/alumni. Looking to organize a Rockhurst gathering where you live? Contact Brent Blazek at brent.blazek@rockhurst.edu.
Class of 2009 Reunion Members of the class of 2009 and friends got reacquainted at a class reunion during Family and Alumni Weekend in September 2019.
Networking Night at the Chamber of Commerce Alumni and friends gathered at Kansas City’s historic Union Station in January for a networking night with the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce. Yogendra (Yogi) Gupta, ’17 MBA, visits with Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., president and CEO of Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences.
Wine Down Yoga Attendees at one of the very first events held in the new Magis Activity Center (The MAC), enjoyed a relaxing evening of wellness and wine, featuring a yoga class led by Carissa Healy, ’92, and a mindfulness exercise led by Gina Behm, ’15.
Networking Night at MRIGlobal The alumni networking series headed to MRIGlobal in November 2019 to highlight the Alumni Medical Network. (From left) Amanda Crocker, ’21; Faye Smith; and Marta Kaufmann, ’85
Do you get together with fellow Hawks for fun, fellowship or service? WE WANT TO SEE YOUR PHOTOS! Send them to brent.blazek@rockhurst.edu.
ROCKHURST.EDU
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St. Louis Leadership Series Scores Timely Soccer Theme
W
ith the late August 2019 announcement that Major League Soccer would award an expansion team to St. Louis, excitement over the sport reached new heights. That made the Rockhurst University Leadership Series in St. Louis a hot ticket Nov. 5, with the appearance of Carolyn Kindle Betz, a majority owner in the new team. Betz, president of Enterprise Holdings Foundation, (From left) Carolyn Kindle Betz, Rockhurst President sat down for a keynote conversation with St. Louis’ the Rev. Thomas B. Curran, S.J., Bill McDermott “Mr. Soccer,” Bill McDermott, and Rockhurst University President the Rev. Thomas B. Curran, S.J., about leadership, achieving goals, and empowering communities. Many former Rockhurst soccer players were in attendance and Peter Baker, goalkeeper for the Hawks, was the student speaker. Baker, a sophomore from Fenton, Missouri, shared how he learned about leadership from legendary Rockhurst men’s soccer coach Tony Tocco. During the luncheon, the University recognized the recipients of the 2019 Magis Award, Steve and Margie West, who were highlighted in the summer 2019 issue of RU magazine. In addition, the Faber Young Alumni Award was presented to Kristin, ’11, and Fred, ’12, Grossman (see below).
Awards Honor Alumni Leaders
R
ockhurst University honored four alumni leaders this fall for their outstanding achievement and contributions to the University community.
Jeff Goering, ’91, was awarded the St. Ignatius Award in recognition of outstanding achievement in his field as part of Family and Alumni Weekend. Joining the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens in 1999, Goering is the current senior vice president and CFO for the team. Goering visited campus to accept the award and talk to a class in the College of Business, Influence and Information Analysis about his career. During September’s Bravo event in appreciation of University supporters, Rockhurst honored Kerm, ’68, and Ellen Fendler with the Xavier Medal of Honor recognizing their outstanding contributions to not only the Rockhurst University community, but the greater Kansas City community as well. They accepted the award with their family. At the Rockhurst University Leadership Series in St. Louis, two St. Louis-area alumni were honored with the Faber Young Alumni Medal. Kristin, ’11, and Fred, ’12, Grossman exemplify commitment to Rockhurst University and its mission, leadership and dedication to the Rockhurst St. Louis Alumni Council, and commitment to the service of others.
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WINTER 2020
FOR ALUMNI
IN MEMORIAM
The Rev. Luke Byrne S.J., died Jan. 27, 2020, in St. Louis, Missouri. A former chaplain for Rockhurst University, Fr. Byrne was born in Kansas City, Missouri, and entered the Jesuit novitiate in 1952, was ordained in 1965, and pronounced his final vows in 1972 at St. Francis Xavier Church. He served as pastor at St. Francis Xavier Church from 1970-75, president of Rockhurst High School from 1975-80, and assistant to the Jesuit provincial from 1980-85. In 1998, he was named the chaplain of Rockhurst University, a position he held for 15 years, during which time he also served as the chaplain for the University’s athletic teams. John F. Daniels Jr., ’47 – Aug. 22
P. Michael Hogan, ’74 – Aug. 26
John H. Henke, ’49 – Sept. 17
William M. Birmingham, ’62 – Sept. 18
Harold W. Mitts Sr., ’49 – Sept. 15
A. Vincent Corbin Jr., ’62 – June 11
Eugene D. Franke, ’75 – Jan. 8
John A. Pyle, ’49 – Sept. 27
J. Patrick Donnelly, ’62 – Oct. 24
Louis M. Garcia, ’77 – Nov. 13
Earl M. Wilson, ’49 – July 12
Eugene M. Zupanec, ’62 – Oct. 13
Stanley A. Rupp, ’77 – Oct. 2
Henry W. Devry Jr., ’50 – Nov. 29
Kevin A. Gratton, ’63 – Aug. 28
Roy D. Boykins, ’79 – Jan. 2
Victor D. Bernard, ’51 – Sept. 6
Joseph M. Lock, ’63 – Nov. 7
Patrick D. Quirk, ’81 – Nov. 15
John E. Hansan, ’51 – Aug. 9
Richard L. Bristow, ’66 – June 25
Herbert Reh III, ’85 – July 20
Marion F. Biondo, D.O., ’52 – Dec. 28
Lt. Col. John E. Fitzgibbons, ’66 – Aug. 3
Franklin H. Austin Jr., ’86 – Oct. 1
Donald K. Sigler, ’52 – Sept. 11
David S. Mitchell, ’66 – July 31
Jerome S. Bolin, ’54. – Nov. 4
Cornelius J. Sullivan, ’66 – Dec. 19
Donald H. Krause, ’55 – Dec. 3
Gerald I. Bell, ’67 – Oct. 29
Thomas D. O'Connor, ’55 – Sept. 15
Russell L. Fiest, ’67 – Sept. 16
Paul K. Palmer, ’55 – Nov. 3
Jack L. Hardgree, ’67 – Dec. 5
Wilfred F. Declercq, ’56 – June 6
J. Michael Phelps, ’67 – July 22
John D. Sheehy, ’56 – Sept. 29
Robert B. Bates, ’68 – Sept. 8
Lewis E. Bechtel Jr., ’57 – Nov. 5
Thomas J. Less, ’68 – Dec. 19
Clement A. Zind, ’57 – Sept.11
Daniel G. Baar, ’69 – June 11
Henry A. Fallon, ’58 – Nov. 23
John R. Loya, ’69 – Oct. 15
David Stark, ’58 – July 18
John J. Berringer, ’70 – Sept. 2
Edward McGurren, ’59 – Dec. 19
Jerry M. Kammerdiener, ’70 – Aug. 10
Francis L. Barkofske, ’60 – July 11
Michael H. O'Rourke, ’70 – Dec. 21
William A. McMichael Jr., ’60 – Oct. 21
Edward J. Butler Jr., ’71 – Nov. 2
Fredrick J. Morrow, ’60 – Nov. 10
Fred J. Quatrocky, ’72 – Oct. 13
Donald R. Flint, ’61 – Dec. 27
Kathleen S. Speidel, ’72 – Nov. 30
Ernest J. Rupp, ’71 – Oct. 5
James E. Tierney, ’74 – Sept. 13
Gary P. Hummel, ’86 – July 26 Donald L. Peattie, ’86 – June 26 Frank L. Branca, ’87 – July 28 Richard E. Geiser, ’87 – Aug. 26 Karen E. Scott, ’88 – Sept. 15 Fredrick A. Hawkins, ’89 – July 30 J. Philip Jacob, ’89 – Jan. 7 Rebecca S. Agnitsch, ’90 – July 28 Trina J. Wendland, ’90 – Aug. 25 Todd K. Chappel, ’93 – Oct. 6 Catherine Munger, ’98 – June 18 Ellen Z. Darling, ’00 – Sept. 6 Yvette Rinfret, ’01 – Dec. 11 John L. Coakley Jr., ’02 – Nov. 17 Zaida Gosserand, ’08 – Dec. 14
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WHERE ARE THEY NOW YOUNG ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: EDGAR PALACIOS, ’11 MBA
Alumnus Creates Nonprofit, Hopes to Close Educational Gap
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Edgar Palacios, ’11 MBA
id you know only 8% of U.S. educators identify as Latino? It’s a statistic Edgar Palacios, ’11 MBA, is working to increase by founding the Latinx Education Collaborative (LEC).
he said. “It creates space for those who are often marginalized within our own community.
“About 25 percent of K-12 students are Latino, which means these students are not seeing themselves represented and reflected in those who serve them,” said Palacios. “The goal of the LEC is to close that gap.”
“Many are isolated within their own communities,” said Palacios. “We bring them together to elevate their voices and give them much-needed support. We’re already seeing an increase in representation at leadership levels, which is exciting.”
Palacios quickly noticed the issue when he was a community consultant for the Kauffman Foundation in 2016, traveling across the country visiting grade schools In founding the LEC, he purposely used the term “Latinx” when naming the organization because he sees the “x” as a symbol of the intersection of all Latin American communities, backgrounds and identities.
To reach its goal, the LEC focuses its efforts at both the local and national levels, finding Latinx educators and connecting them.
Palacios has been working in the nonprofit world since his time at RU, but he never planned to launch his own. “It has been a faith journey,” he said. “My RU experience gave me the business acumen and servant leadership mentality to do this, but also helped me realize my purpose and the impact I want to leave on the world.”
“This term leads from a place of inclusivity and a commitment to equality and social justice,”
“It creates space for those who are often marginalized within our own community.” —Edgar Palacios, ’11 MBA
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HIRE A HAWK
WINTER 2020
rockhurst.edu/hireahawk Looking for the perfect addition to your team? Contact Rockhurst University’s Career Services to connect with RU alumni and students looking to start their careers and secure internships.
FOR ALUMNI
EVERYDAY LEADERS Alumna Creates Bedsheet Pantry for Sexual Assault Victims
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s a crime scene technician for the Kansas City Police Department, Marisa Smith ’11, was taught to look at each crime scene objectively, take photographs, collect evidence, and be on her way. But when it came to sexual assault crime scenes, Smith couldn’t help but think about the victim. “Even though I rarely interact directly with victims, my mind kept bringing me back to the human aspect of things, especially when it came time to take the victims’ sheets,” said Smith. “Seeing the stripped mattress seemed so cold and, frankly, retraumatizing.” Smith decided to do something about it – and her idea for a bedsheet pantry was born. “Owning a second set of sheets is a privilege,” said Smith. “New sheets provide a little bit of comfort to an otherwise awful situation. I wanted victims to know there was a caring community there to support them.” After running her idea up the KCPD chain of command, Smith got the green light. When the first call came in, Smith dashed to Target, bought sheets and a comforter, then drove to the victim’s home to drop it all off. “The victim actually answered the door and I was able to meet her and her daughter,” said Smith. “Honestly, if I never gave away another set of sheets after that it would it have been enough for me. I got to help, even in this small way.” From there, Smith asked for donations from coworkers, and KCPD put a callout in their newsletter. But her big break came when the KCPD media unit posted the story on social media.
Marisa Smith ’11
“New sheets provide a little bit of comfort to an otherwise awful situation. I wanted victims to know there was a caring community there to support them.” —Marisa Smith ’11
“People were asking how they could contribute, so I created an Amazon wish list,” she said. “A few days later, I got a text with a photo of a flatbed truck full of Amazon boxes at the station. I was in shock.” Truckloads of sheets kept coming for several weeks from all over the world. KCPD quickly ran out of storage space for the sheets, so they have started donating them to other police departments.
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IN CLOSING
The Best Experience of All BY TERESA MOERER, ’85
Teresa Moerer, ’85
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ately, I’ve been intrigued by the subject of experiences. I’ve always been fascinated with human behavior and became curious about the concepts of how we have experiences, what enhances them and how we can prepare ourselves to take full advantage of them.
There were times of disappointment in myself when I had less patience for my mother than I had for the patients in the hospital. There were also the joyous and fun times we had working daily crossword puzzles and playing scrabble with a group in the independent living facility.
Amid my intrigue and studies, I was fortunate to be able to help my sisters take care of my mother during the last few years of her life. I looked forward to providing experiences that would help strengthen her body, mind and spirit. I was well equipped to take on this role after working nearly 34 years as a physical therapist teaching patients and families the skills of mobility and caregiving.
But the best experience I had was at the end. It was the gift my parents gave me at the end of their lives. It was after the years they spent striving to raise a family. They had played the game of life with integrity and persistence and received the blessings of sixteen grandchildren and the devotion of their daughters. The trials and sorrows they had faced were over.
What I didn’t know going into this adventure was that I was needed more as a daughter than I was for my medical advice. I found out that my four sisters and I had our own set of unique eyes to see and know what our parents needed. At times I was caught off guard by emotions that struck me so hard, I felt paralyzed.
In the end, they were able to shed the fear, disguise, and pretense that we all carry to some extent. And then I saw it. They were able to give me a glimpse of their soul. It was the soul I knew as a little girl. They held intact, deep within them, their solid core of strength and faith. I saw their truth and felt their love, and, oh, what a sweet moment that was. They took me home. And it was to a home that is not here on earth. And I will forever be grateful for that experience.
I wasn’t prepared for the feelings of helplessness and pain deep in my heart when, at the end of their lives, both of my parents asked me to take them home. I found myself slipping into denial, but deep down, I knew the home they were looking for did not exist here on earth.
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Teresa Moerer, ’85, is a physical therapist with more than 30 years of experience. She is the author of a recently published book titled The Art of Assisting Aging Parents.
TIME AND PLACE
THURSDAY, NOV. 14, COMMEMORATIVE ROSE GARDEN ON KINERK COMMONS The Rockhurst University community gathers to honor six Jesuit martyrs, their housekeeper and her daughter, who were murdered at the University of Central America in San Salvador on Nov. 16, 1989, and others who perished during the El Salvadoran civil war.
Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage
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