The Spring Hill College Magazine 1-2 | Spring 2007 by Spring Hill College

SPRING HILL T H E

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C O L L E G E

M A G A Z I N E

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10 YEARS OF LEADERSHIP Rev. Gregory F. Lucey, S.J. Celebrates Milestone in Presidency

THE SPRING HILL COLLEGE MAGAZINE VOLUME 1, NUMBER 2

FROM THE PRESIDENT

EDITOR: Lindsay O’Quin

MANAGING EDITOR: John Kerr

LAYOUT & DESIGN:

Dear Alumni and Friends,

Peg Udall

PHOTOGRAPHY: Seth Laubinger Lindsay O’Quin Keith Necaise Greg Witcher ’07

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Kelly McCarron ’99 Lindsay Mott ’07 Scootie Dabbs Jolie Pollard ’07 Greta Sharp Jessica Slater ’08

THE SPRING HILL COLLEGE MAGAZINE is published three times a year by the Office of Communications and Marketing.

PRESIDENT Rev. Gregory F. Lucey, S.J.

COMMENTS should be addressed to: Lindsay O’Quin, Editor Spring Hill College Magazine, 4000 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36608-1791 251.380.2280 or 877.SPR.HILL loquin@shc.edu

As another wonderful year quickly draws to a close, the campus has been alive with celebrations of the achievements of our students and of my 10th anniversary as president of Spring Hill College. I would like to think there is a connection between the very impressive achievements of our graduating seniors and the completion of these 10 years as president. During this time, we have made significant progress in realizing my vision for creating a learning and living environment that truly fosters growth in all of us, particularly in our students. Both at the recent Academic Convocation and the Leadership Reception I was impressed with numbers of students graduating with honors and the clear evidence of student leadership within the College community. Individual graduates have been accepted at not one but four medical schools, eight law schools, or seven doctoral programs. As I look out my window while writing this letter I see Margaret Sanders leaving the library. Margaret will graduate with a double major in pure mathematics and philosophy and a minor in chemistry. She will enter a doctoral program in mathematical biology at Florida State University next fall. My reflections on these 10 incredible years at Spring Hill College led me to realize that lasting such a length of time in a position like this, while wonderful, is not nearly as important as what has been achieved and how we have achieved it. We have been truly blessed over these 10 years, through the efforts and generosity of so many, to be able to rebuild much of this campus, to

strengthen our financial sustainability, to awaken our spiritual identity, to energize our faculty, to enhance our programs and services, and to significantly increase our enrollment. How have we achieved all of this? It is very simple. We have created and nurtured partnerships with a strong, committed Board of Trustees who have generously given of their time, talent and treasure. We have worked with and among the faculty, staff and senior leadership, with our alumni and our current students, as well as with the community of Mobile and beyond. These partnerships have made the difference. But more important than what we have achieved is what we have become over these 10 years. Growth of the person is what we are about at Spring Hill. The experience of the love and appreciation of this community for me has, indeed, enabled me to become what I have aspired to be from my youth. I am truly honored and humbled to be recognized as I have been with the naming of the Administration Building. It will always symbolize the love and appreciation I have experienced from the Spring Hill College community. As you read this issue of the magazine, I hope you will rejoice in what we have accomplished and in what we have become. May you also rejoice in the vision for Spring Hill College yet to be realized and that we have some years left to fully realize that vision. Sincerely,

Rev. Gregory F. Lucey, S.J. President

TABLE OF CONTENTS FROM THE PRESIDENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .i CAMPUS NEWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-5 BADGER NEWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7 FR. LUCEY: A A PRESIDENT

PERSON, A PRIEST & . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-10

LINDSAY O’QUIN

CELEBRATING A PRESIDENTIAL MILESTONE . . . . .11-14 ADMIN BUILDING TO BE NAMED FOR FR. LUCEY . . .14 GEORGE WILL SPEAKS AT ‘SCHOLARSHIPS AT SPRING HILL COLLEGE’ . . . . .15-16 LINDSAY O’QUIN

SISTERHOOD: NUNS FROM VIETNAM EXPERIENCE LIFE ON THE HILL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 JOLIE POLLARD ’07

SENIOR SUCCESSES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18-19 LINDSAY MOTT ’07, JOLIE POLLARD ’07

OUTSTANDING ALUMNI HONORED AT PRESIDENT’S DINNER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20-21 HOMECOMING ON THE HILL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22-23 GRETA SHARP

CLASS NOTES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24-25 CHAPTER UPDATES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26-27 ALUMNI NEWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

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CAMPUSNEWS JESUIT LEADER ENCOURAGES COMMUNITY OF KINSHIP By Jolie Pollard ’07 troubled youths that join gangs, come from unstable households oyle Heights, a community in Los Angeles, Calif., is notorious that drove them to seek refuge in a group that provides a false for its high number of gang-involved youth. Many young men sense of security. “Pops told me I was somebody. That struck me and women take the Los Angeles streets armed with dangerous because I couldn’t believe someone would see potential in me,” weapons, selling drugs, eluding authorities, and living lives with said Valenzuela, who now gives tours inside Homeboy Industries. no goals and no hope of a safe future. Watching these young men And while jailing these turn their lives around has not criminals has been the combeen easy for Boyle, who also mon solution by law authorihas a big challenge of getting ties, one man has struggled to rival gang members to work pursue an alternative route in side by side. Boyle told a tearfighting gang-related crime. jerking story of “Chico.” The Exemplary of the Jesuit center had helped the young ideal of going beyond service, man find a job in computer scifor close to 20 years, the Rev. ence, but not long after Chico Gregory Boyle, S.J., has had faxed Boyle a letter telling helped his “homies” live a him how much he appreciated better life through kinship. his new way of life, Chico was “There is no us and them, victim to a drive-by shooting just us,” said Boyle, explaining The Rev. Gregory Boyle, S.J., spoke to Spring Hill students about creating a community of kinship. He is accompanied by two former gang members, right in front of his home. the meaning of kinship to a Maynor Aguirre, left, and George Valenzuela. The priest said it is difficult mix of Spring Hill students, to measure the success of Homeboy Industries in terms of how faculty and staff on Feb. 13. “It’s about recognizing that we’re in many youths have left gangs for lives in the workforce, as he has this together.” already buried 150 former gang members. Boyle said that for gang The white Jesuit priest is known as “G-Dog” and “Pops” by a members to step inside Homeboy Industries and to make the perpredominantly Latino community. Boyle is the executive director sonal decision to change is tough. “It’s like a habit that’s hard to of the Los Angeles-based Jobs for a Future/Homeboy Industries, a break,” said Aguirre, describing his exit from gang life. nationally recognized center for at-risk and gang-involved youth In an effort to help youth break that habit and satisfy their that assists 1,000 people a month with services, including providdesire to work, the center has created several successful developing employment opportunities, tattoo removal and counseling. ment enterprises, including Homeboy Bakery, Homeboy The renowned speaker was accompanied by two former gang Silkscreen, Homeboy/Homegirl Merchandise, Homeboy Graffiti members who shed light on his message of kinship. Twenty-nineRemoval, Homeboy Maintenance, and Homeboy Landscaping. year-old George Valenzuela told the audience, “He gave me a chance. I took him in as my father.” Jolie Pollard ’07 interned in the Office of Communications Valenzuela and 21-year-old Maynor Aguirre, like many other and Marketing.

PHOTO BY KEITH NECAISE

STUDENTS’ DESIGNS FOR NEW ORLEANS PROVINCE WIN CONTEST

tudents in Janden Richards’s graphic design class, as well as students from Loyola University New Orleans, had the opportunity to design logos for the centennial celebration of the New Orleans Province of the Society of Jesus, which was established Aug. 15, 1907. Plans are to use the logos on banners in downtown New Orleans, on publications for the Province and on the Spring Hill College Web site. From left, Glen Noya of Noya Design

Incorporated of New Orleans, contest judge; Janden Richards, instructor of fine arts; Lynsey Winkler; Maria Merchan; Rev. Mark Lewis, S.J.; Michael Bourg, executive director for development of the New Orleans Province and contest judge; Brian Patterson; Gabriel Capote; and President Gregory F. Lucey, S.J. Brian Patterson won first place (logo shown); Maria Merchan took second place; and Gabriel Capote and Lynsey Winkler tied for third.

Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

CARROCCI NAMED PRESIDENT OF NEWMAN UNIVERSITY experiences, and through the college’s r. Noreen Carrocci, provost and vice annual Celebration of Our Learning Day. president for academic affairs at “It is difficult to find the words to adeSpring Hill College since 1998, has been quately describe the contributions that Dr. named president of Newman University Carrocci has made to Spring Hill College in Wichita, Kan. She concluded her servover these past nine years,” said the Rev. ice to Spring Hill College on May 18 and Gregory F. Lucey, S.J. “Dr. Carrocci has will assume responsibilities as president of played a leadership role in the transformaNewman on July 1. The Board of Trustees recognized Carrocci with a resolution at the April board meeting. During her nine years of service to Spring Hill, Carroci has led the college to fulfill all requirements of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and to earn reaffirmation of its accreditation through the 2016-2017 academic year. She has led the faculty to revitalize the core curriculum and has Dr. Noreen Carrocci is surprised at commencement when the Rev. nurtured friendships with Gregory F. Lucey, S.J., names her the recipient of the William J. students, faculty, staff Rewak, S.J., Service Award for her nine years of service to Spring Hill College. and friends of Spring Hill College. In addition, she has advocated the engagement of students in learning through undergraduate research, service learning, community service and international immersion

PHOTO BY SETH LAUBINGER

tion of our learning space with the renovation of Quinlan Hall and the construction of the Burke Library, and she has been instrumental in the renewal of the

faculty by providing opportunities for professional development and by hiring so many great additions. ‘COOL Day,’ the annual celebration of our learning, symbolizes those contributions Dr. Carrocci has made in her quest for academic excellence at Spring Hill College. In a word, she has had a hand in all that has been accomplished these past nine years.” Carrocci holds an M.A. and Ph.D. in speech communication and human relations from the University of Kansas and an A.B in speech communication/psychology from Miami University (Ohio). Prior to coming to Spring Hill she served as dean of the Undergraduate College and Graduate School of Arts and Sciences at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota from 1994 to 1998. Dr. George Sims, associate vice president for academic affairs, will serve as interim provost. The college will soon begin a search for a new provost and academic vice president. Newman University is a coeducational Catholic liberal arts institution offering associate, baccalaureate and master’s degrees. Sponsored by the Adorers of the Blood of Christ, Newman University offers more than 40 undergraduate and graduate programs to students from 26 states and 33 countries.

r. Ola Fox, associate professor of nursing and program coordinator for the Master of Science in Nursing Clinical Nurse Leader (MSN-CNL) program, was recently appointed to the national steering committee by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing president, Jeanette Lancaster from the University of Virginia. Fox will serve alongside other educators and partners from clinical practice to oversee the growth, development and implementation of the CNL role. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing is the national voice for America’s baccalaureate- and higherdegree nursing education programs. “It is so exciting to be involved in such

an important initiative in improving care for patients. When we reviewed the first white papers on the CNL, we knew it was the right proDr. Ola Fox gram for Spring Hill,” Fox said. “The philosophy and mission of the CNL are very similar to the philosophy and mission of the college.” Fox is a longtime resident of Mobile. Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

PHOTO BY SETH LAUBINGER

DR. OLA FOX APPOINTED TO AACN CLINICAL NURSE LEADER STEERING COMMITTEE She began her career as a nurse manager at Mobile Infirmary Medical Center. She is a graduate of Mobile Infirmary School of Nursing and holds her bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, post-masters Gerontological Nurse Practitioner/ Clinical Nurse Specialist certificate from the University of South Alabama, and her Doctor of Nursing Science from Louisiana State University Health Science Center in New Orleans. She has been in academia since 1989. She teaches graduate courses in the MSN-CNL program and serves as coordinator of the MSN program. For more information on Spring Hill College’s MSN-CNL program, visit www.shc.edu/msn or call (800) 524-8957.

CAMPUSNEWS COLLEGE COMMUNITY SAYS THANK YOU TO RETIREES

PHOTO BY KEITH NECAISE

From left, Dr. Jack Kane, professor and chair, Department of Chemistry, Physics and Engineering; Br. Ferrell Blank, S.J., plant operations; Susie Steen, office manager, financial aid; President Gregory F. Lucey, S.J.; Ruth Belasco, professor of fine arts; James Brown, golf course grounds; and Dr. Stewart Langdon, associate professor of business, celebrate their retirement from Spring Hill College with an endof-the-year reception.

r. John W. “Jack” Kane and Br. Ferrell Blank, S.J., have been taking care of business and devoting their professional lives to Spring Hill College for a combined 84 years. They are among five dedicated college employees retiring this year. Kane has been a member of the faculty for 38 years, and Blank has been part of the community for 46 years. (See spring 2006 issue of Spring Hill magazine.) They join Susie Steen, Ruth Belasco, both with more than 20 years of service, and Dr. Stewart Langdon in the 2007 class of retirees who recently received the college’s thanks and best wishes. “The devotion and contributions of these dedicated individuals are immeasurable. In their work they have helped shape the lives of so many students and developed friendships that last a lifetime,” said President Gregory F. Lucey, S.J. “They will be missed but will be part of our family always.” Kane joined the SHC faculty in 1969 as an assistant professor of physics. He has served as chair of the Department of Chemistry, Physics and Engineering since 1997. A former student said of him: “Thank you for the memories and stories, but more important thank you for a priceless education. I have carried all my mentors forward into my life, in ways they may never realize, for they have become part of who I am. I hope that in the celebration of your career, you will see how you have touched so many students’ lives in such profound ways. Take care and enjoy your retirement. And remember you will still be working,

throughout the world, via those lessons you taught to yesterday’s graduates and today’s leaders.” Dr. David Dean, chair of the Division of Sciences, said, “Jack is best known among the faculty for the knowledge of and enthusiasm for the subject matter that he teaches and the sincere caring manner in which he interacts with students both in and out of the classroom.” Blank has kept it all together at the college in more ways than one. He has put his expertise and engineering background to work for the college in plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling, refrigeration and even blacksmithing. Blank lived in Murray Hall and helped students, lent an ear when needed and cooked a pretty good gumbo for them on occasion. He helped many of them get ready to “engineer” a successful life after college. Steen first came to SHC in 1984, left in ’87 to work part time in financial aid, and returned full time again in 1994. Dean of Admissions Steve Pochard said, “Susie is pleasant, pleasing, personable and professional – always making sure the students were well taken care of. She brought a feeling of true Southern charm to the college.” Langdon’s students fully appreciated the values that business graduates of a Jesuit institution should possess to truly become leaders in service to others. His courses were popular with students, and he brought real-world experiences into the classroom. Langdon began teaching at Spring Hill in the Business Division in the fall of 1993 after a decorated career in the United Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

States Navy and a successful tenure in the technology industry. Langdon has been recognized by the College as the Moody Teacher of the Year and the Fagot Teacher of the Year. He has been the driving force behind the Business Advisory Board, the principal architect of the Business Program Development at Spring Hill College document, and the innovator of the present-day business capstone courses. Belasco joined the SHC faculty in 1983. Her works have been featured in numerous exhibits in Mobile and throughout the Southeast. She has served on the board of directors for the Alabama Alliance for Arts Education and chair of the Visual Arts Committee of the Higher Education Initiative. The Rev. Stephen Campbell, S.J., chair of the Department of Fine and Performing Arts, said, “Since her arrival here in 1983, she has increased the level of academic integrity of the department by significantly expanding the curriculum in studio art and doing work on an interdisciplinary level.”

SPIRITUALITY INSTITUTE SET FOR JUNE The Summer Institute of Christian Spirituality once again will be presented by the Department of Theology June 3-9 and June 10-16 in Mobile, and June 17-22 and June 23-28 in Atlanta. The institute features more than 16 courses in the Jesuit, Catholic tradition and participants can earn undergraduate, graduate or CEU credit. For more information visit www.shc.edu/sics, or call (800) 524-8957.

CLASS OF ’07 LEAVES ITS MARK ON THE HILL bout 300 undergraduate, Lifelong Learning and graduate students walked the Avenue of the Oaks at commencement on May 13, a typical stifling hot Mother’s Day. The Most Rev. Oscar Lipscomb, the first archbishop and eighth bishop of Mobile, received the Fons Sapientiae Award, Spring Hill’s highest honor, for providing spiritual leadership to the Archdiocese of Mobile and to Spring Hill College as a trustee. Lipscomb also delivered the commencement address. “I am grateful beyond measure for the honor which Spring Hill College confers upon me by the rarely given Fons Sapientiae designation,” Lipscomb said. Honorary degrees were presented to John Burke Jr. ’63 and Monsignor Edward J. Dillon. Burke, chairman and CEO of Burke Properties, received an honorary Doctor of Laws for his philanthropy to the arts and charitable organizations, as well as for his contribution to the transformation of campus with the Marnie and John Burke Memorial Library. Dillon, pastor of Holy Spirit Parish, received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters for his dedication to the revitalization of Church law and for his support of the Spring Hill Atlanta initiative. In addition, several faculty members were recognized for their service to Spring Hill. Glenda Partridge, instructor of accounting, was named the Rev. Edward B. Moody, S.J., Teacher of the Year. Dr. Andrew Sharp, professor of accounting, received the Dawson Research Award. Dr. Noreen Carrocci, provost and vice president for academic affairs, was surprised when she was named the recipient of the William J. Rewak, S.J., Service Award for her nine years of service to the college. Ruth Belasco, Dr. Jack Kane and Dr. Stewart Langdon were recognized as emeriti faculty. Three members of the senior class were recognized for outstanding service and scholastic achievement. Brian Dupont received the Toolen Award for highest scholastic

achievement. Brianne Bordes and Christopher Holcomb received Ignatian Awards for exemplifying Ignatian ideals. Kathleen Parks, senior class president, presented the class gift of the restoration of the historic fountain that was vandalized last December. The fountain, located between St. Joseph Chapel and the

Administration Building, dates back to the 1890s. After the degrees were conferred, Matthew Blythe, senior class orator, addressed his fellow graduates with a memorable speech. He opened by saying, “If you’ve never written a graduation commencement speech, what most people tell you is to always open with a quote.” But, Blythe refused to conform to the conventional. “Hey, this is Spring Hill,” he continued. “We have more elevated standards here, coming as we do from the legacy of our Jesuit education. Do you think Ignatius of Loyola … would have gotten up here and been content to spout some trite, platitudinous nonsense? No, of course he wouldn’t do that.” Instead, Blythe encouraged his fellow graduates, “Let’s be a generation that constructs our own words, that doesn’t just settle for whatever’s already on the books to get us off and get us by. … Your new lives are just beginning, so be sure to make the most of this amazing achievement.”

PHOTOS BY SETH LAUBINGER

Clockwise from top, Archbishop Oscar Lipscomb delivers the commencement address; Matthew Blythe, senior class orator, addresses his fellow graduates; Monsignor Edward Dillon receives his honorary degree; members of the class of 2007 toss their hats; and John Burke Jr. receives his honorary degree. SEE MORE COMMENCEMENT PHOTOS, INSIDE BACK COVER.

Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

BADGERNEWS SHC NAMES ATHLETES OF THE YEAR

pring Hill student-athletes were honored at the annual Athletics Banquet in April. Among them:

MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

per game, recorded 226 steals and 49 blocks. She shot a 47.6 total field goal percentage, a 36.4 3-point percentage and a 72.9 free throw percentage. Her career high points included 29 points against Belhaven College in February. Rodriguez is the daughter of Louis and Celina Rodriguez of Violet, La., and graduated with a degree in accounting.

FEMALE ATHLETES OF THE YEAR

KRISTIE MURPHY, SENIOR, SOCCER Murphy, a native of Leawood, Kan., is a four-year starter and team captain for the past two seasons. As a freshman, she was named 1st-Team All-Conference, AllRegion and Honorable Mention AllAmerican. She was named 2nd Team AllConference as a junior, and 1st Team AllConference as a senior. Murphy anchored the defense and helped SHC’s top 50 ranking by the NAIA for lowest goals against average defense. Murphy is the daughter of Tim and Elin Murphy. She graduated with a degree in graphic design.

PHOTOS BY SETH LAUBINGER AND KEITH NECAISE

SPRING HILL SOFTBALL WINS GCAC REGULAR SEASON TITLE

T MARIA RODRIGUEZ, SENIOR, BASKETBALL Named to the All-GCAC team as a freshman, junior and senior, Rodriguez scored a double-figure points average all four years as a starter for the Lady Badgers. She averaged 12.6 points per game, 4.9 rebounds

oftball head coach Alison SellersCook was named the 2007 Gulf Coast Athletic Conference Coach of the Year by conference officials. Sellers-Cook led the Lady Badgers to a 24-23 overall record and 8-4 GCAC record. The Lady Badgers earned the No. 1 seed at the GCAC tournament and an invitation to the NAIA Region XIII tournament on May 8-10. Sellers-Cook also played four years for Spring Hill and spent two seasons as an assistant coach before accepting the head coaching position in 2005. In two seasons at the helm, Sellers-Cook has recorded a 46-44 (13-11 GCAC) record.

MADZINSKI NAMED WOMEN’S BASKETBALL COACH

DREW SIMS, SENIOR, BASEBALL Sims, a native of Mobile, Ala., is a fouryear starter at second base/shortstop and has been team captain for the past two seasons. He started 163 of 166 games and recorded a career batting average of .333. He recorded 86 runs batted in and scored 61 runs. He also recorded 295 put-outs and a .931 fielding percentage. Sims is the son of SHC head baseball coach Frank Sims and graduated with a degree in communications.

COOK NAMED GCAC COACH OF THE YEAR

he Spring Hill softball team (23-21, 8-4 GCAC) secured the GCAC regular season title on April 14 with a 10-8 victory over the University of Mobile. Spring Hill defeated all three GCAC teams at least once to attain this top honor. During the season, SHC defeated Belhaven College, 3-1; William Carey University, 4-0; and UM, 1-3, in a fourgame series.

Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

pring Hill College has a new women’s basketball coach. Craig Madzinski will take over the Lady Badgers’ program. Madzinski, a native of Chicago, Ill., spent last season as an assistant women’s basketball coach at Fairfield University in Fairfield, Conn. During the 2005-06 season, Madzinski was an assistant women’s coach at the United States Military Academy at West Point, N.Y., where the Cadets finished 20-11 for the season. Madzinski graduated from Saint Leo University in 1989 where he was threeyear varsity letter winner in basketball.

SHC NAMES BETH RING HEAD VOLLEYBALL COACH

eth Ring has been named head volleyball coach at Spring Hill College. Ring coached four seasons at Falls Road Baptist Church School in Rocky Mount, N.C., where her teams posted a 68-14 record and won a state championship in 2005. Ring also coached at Faith Baptist School in Pembine, Wis., where her teams also won a state championship in 1999. Ring played at Northland Baptist Bible College from 1988-92. She received a B.S. in education in 1992.

Two alumni inducted into Athletic Hall of Fame Kelly O’Connor Karras ’88 and William Blake Stein ’95 are the newest inductees into the Spring Hill College Athletic Hall of Fame. They were honored at the President’s Dinner on March 22 as part of the Homecoming on the Hill celebration. This award is presented to athletes and coaches who have made outstanding contributions to Spring Hill College or who have made significant achievements in their athletic careers.

William Blake Stein ’95 – Baseball, B.S., Chemistry

Kelly O’Connor Karras ’88 – Cross Country, B.S., Psychology

Blake Stein is assistant baseball coach at McGill-Toolen Catholic High School. A two-time All-American, Stein pitched for the Badgers from 1992 to 1994 setting 10 school records. He was a career leader in ERA (3.07), wins (26), and strikeouts (302). Stein struck out a record 17 William Carey batters on April 20, 1994. During Stein’s tenure, the Spring Hill Badgers were 108-49 (.689) including a school best 40-15 record in 1992. He was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 6th round of the 1994 amateur draft and was traded to the Oakland Athletics in 1997 as part of the infamous Mark McGuire trade. Stein was traded to the Kansas City Royals in 1999. In his first full season with the Royals he went 8-5 with a 4.68 ERA and 78 strikeouts. In 2004 he signed as a free agent with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Stein completed his degree at Spring Hill in December 2005. He and his wife, Ellen, reside in Daphne with their three daughters, Corinne, Meghan and Kendall.

While a student at Spring Hill College, Karras was the No. 1 seeded runner on the cross country team. She won the Gulf Coast Cross Country Regional Championship in 1987 and went on to nationals where she placed in the top 20. She graduated summa cum laude and received the Father Dorn award, given to the best female athlete with the highest G.P.A., and was elected to the American College Athletic Hall of Fame. After graduating from Spring Hill, Karras placed in the top 20 percent in the Boston Marathon and was fifth among 2,500 runners in the Moscow Marathon. Karras and her husband, Drew, live in Chicago where she manages their real estate investment firm. They have three daughters, Meghan, Amanda and Devon. Karras joins her father, Tom O’Connor ’61, who was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame last year.

PHOTO BY KEITH NECAISE

SEASON HIGHLIGHTS MEN’S BASKETBALL The Badgers finished the 2006-07 season with a record of 14-13 (9-10 GCAC) under fourth-year head coach Robert Thompson. They ended the season at the GCAC tournament in New Orleans. After a first-round win over Loyola University, the Badgers fell to Xavier in the second game. Senior guard Ugo Ezekwe and sophomore guard Jeremy Price were named to the All-GCAC team.

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL The Lady Badgers wrapped up a tough 2006-07 season with a record of 8-19 (810 GCAC). The Lady Badgers ended the season at the GCAC tournament in New Orleans, La., with a loss to Southern University of New Orleans. Senior Maria Rodriguez was named to the All-GCAC team.

BASEBALL The Badgers finished with an 18-38 (525 GCAC) record for the 2007 season.

SHC co-hosted the GCAC Tournament along with the University of Mobile on May 3-6 at Stan Galle Field. The Badgers defeated No. 9 Belhaven College in the opening round, 5-4, but fell to William Carey University and the University of Mobile in later rounds. Freshman center fielder Ryan Hall was named to the AllConference team and the Rawlings-NAIA Conference Gold Glove Team. Junior second baseman Tom Connors and sophomore first baseman Ricky Havens were also named to the Gold Glove Team.

MEN’S & WOMEN’S GOLF The men finished the regular season at the BMW Intercollegiate Tournament in Greenville, S.C., where the team placed 14th overall. The men’s team competed in the NAIA Region XIII Championship April 29-May 1. They finished 2nd overall with a three-round total of 881(+17). Freshman Will Loweth led the Badgers with a 219 total score and was named to the All-Region team. Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

The SHC women’s golf team finished the regular season at the Bash at the Beach tournament in Daytona Beach, Fla., where the team placed 10th overall. The team finished 3rd at the NAIA Regional tournament in April.

MEN’S & WOMEN’S TENNIS The SHC men’s tennis team finished the regular season against Huntington College in Montgomery, Ala., where they fell 7-2. The Badgers went 1-for-2 in the GCAC tournament in New Orleans, La., where the team defeated Belhaven College (5-4) and went 0-for-1 at the Regional tournament. The Lady Badgers finished the regular season on March 30 against Belhaven College at the Mobile Tennis Center, where they lost 2-7. The Lady Badgers lost to the University of Mobile (7-2) at the GCAC tournament in New Orleans, La.

Father Lucey: a Person, a Priest & a President By Lindsay O’Quin

PHOTOS BY SETH LAUBINGER

he Rev. Gregory F. Lucey, S.J., is a man defined foremost by who he is rather than what he does. As Fr. Lucey celebrates 10 years as president of Spring Hill College, he undoubtedly is satisfied with the transformation of the college’s living and learning environment. However, he is also pleased that he has been able to integrate all facets of his life into the college’s success – his charisma, his spirituality and his leadership – with a team of highly capable people at his side. Fr. Lucey’s role as president was 64 years in the making, and a decade later he reflects on the path that led him to Spring Hill College. Fr. Lucey was first aware that he wanted to be a Jesuit when he was 12 years old. His brother already planned to pursue becoming a Jesuit, so his mother encouraged him to take a different road. “She said once, ‘We’ll have a priest in the family, we’ll have somebody in politics, but we don’t have anybody in medicine. Why don’t you become a doctor?’” Fr. Lucey recalls. “So, when I got my doctorate, I said, ‘OK, Mom, now I’m a doctor.’” Fr. Lucey attended Campion Jesuit High School, a Jesuit boarding school in Wisconsin, where he was surrounded by about a dozen young Jesuit scholastics who taught his classes. His decision to become a Jesuit was cemented, but he questioned his ability to follow in his mentors’ footsteps. “I thought, Gosh, I would really like to be one of them. Could I do that? Am I smart enough? I just wanted to be like those guys,” he said. Growing up in the late ’40s and early ’50s in a religious family, Fr. Lucey says the culture was supportive

of the choice to become a priest. But, as the social and religious climate changed in the ’60s with the opening of the Second Vatican Council, his decision to stay was harder than his initial decision to enter the priesthood. Many Jesuits decided to leave, but Fr. Lucey, ordained in 1964, sensed that God had a plan for his life. “I had a very, very profound moment of sensing that God wanted me to be His priest. ‘I want you as a priest in my church’ was what I heard,’” Fr. Lucey said. “That was such a turning point.” Fr. Lucey, who described his younger self as “not a star student,” respects the Society of Jesus for the importance it places on education. “One of the great things about the Society of Jesus is its emphasis on a education almost to a fault. If you’re interested in getting more education, you really have the opportunity,” he said. As a young Jesuit, Fr. Lucey received a master’s degree in education and undergraduate and graduate degrees in philosophy from St. Louis University, as well as a master’s degree in liturgy from the University of Notre Dame. Fr. Lucey returned to his old high school, Campion, as a scholastic, teaching for three years just like the men whom he had admired in his youth. After ordination, he directed retreats for students and parish renewal programs across the upper Midwest. A few years later, while visiting Campion, he learned from a group of friends that the principal would soon be leaving. “I said a kind of boastful thing,” Fr. Lucey prefaced with a chuckle. “I said, ‘Well, I’ve got a master’s in education. I could do that.’ It was just spur of the

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moment. And I thought, maybe I should have thought about that.” Weeks later the president of Campion called Fr. Lucey and asked if he would seriously consider becoming principal. Fr. Lucey agreed. In the fall of 1969 he entered the school year as principal, and one year later he became the president. Unfortunately, Fr. Lucey had to close the school in 1975, but he felt that in educational administration was where he belonged. Following his presidency at Campion, he earned his doctorate in educational administration from the University of Wisconsin at Madison. Then he served as vice president for development at Seattle University from 1978-1988. With aspirations to become a college president, Fr. Lucey applied and interviewed for presidency at two colleges. Coming in second both times, he thought perhaps presidency wasn’t what he was meant to pursue. Fr. Lucey returned to a spiritual role as rector of the Jesuit community at Marquette University for five years, during which time he founded and served as director of Marquette’s Center for Ignatian Spirituality. He then served as president of the Jesuit Conference USA based in Washington, D.C. Serving in that capacity, he attended the 34th General Congregation of the Society of Jesus in 1995 as one of 200 delegates worldwide. Although he enjoyed the international aspects of his role as president of the Jesuit Conference, he felt less connected to a single community and missed the opportunity of forming relationships with individuals. Finally, in 1997 the opportunity to lead Spring Hill College presented itself, and Fr. Lucey was the right man for the job at the right time. “I was looking for a challenge,” he said. “I had a wide range of experience over a lifetime to bring to Mobile to a small liberal

arts college.” Fr. Lucey said he did not come to Spring Hill with a vision or blueprint of what he planned to accomplish. Instead, he brought a refreshing attitude and a collaborative management style. “I’m more like, ‘I don’t have the answer. Let’s talk about it,’” he said. “Then we have to have the confidence that we can do this. The question is not can we do it, but how can we do it?” Fr. Lucey knew he would be questioned at first on becoming the president of a college, having never taught a college course. But, after 10 years the questioning has silenced. Fr. Lucey’s approach is that he doesn’t have to have all the skills needed to run a college, but he needs to surround himself with people who do possess those skills. “I think the most challenging part is being able to supervise, inspire and motivate really bright, capable people,” he said. “The stronger and brighter and more capable, the better.” With a talented group of faculty and staff at Spring Hill, Fr. Lucey said he couldn’t take credit for all the college’s success in the last decade. And, surprisingly, the achievements of which he is most proud are not newly constructed or renovated buildings. “What I’m most pleased with is what I’ve been able to coalesce, to bring people together around a mission,” he explained. A self-described extrovert, Fr. Lucey said the most enjoyable aspect of his job as president is interacting with people, whether through talking to them in the cafeteria, writing letters, giving presentations, or cultivating relationships with donors. Being a big-picture leader, Fr. Lucey admits his least favorite part is “really picky details.” Fr. Lucey states matter-of-factly that he has no life

“I think Spring Hill all the time. When I wake up in the morning, I’m thinking about Spring Hill.”

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outside of Spring Hill College, but the beauty of his position is that he can combine many dimensions of his being into the college – his spirituality, his relationships with people, and his ability to lead. “I used to think that I needed another life, but at my age, doing what I’m doing is my life,” he said. “I think Spring Hill all the time. When I wake up in the morning, I’m thinking about Spring Hill.” Despite Fr. Lucey and Spring Hill College seeming one and the same, he is not defined solely by his job title as president. As Dr. Noreen Carrocci, provost and vice president for academic affairs, once told him, “You’re first a person, secondly a priest, and thirdly a president.” In an emotional recount of their conversation, Fr. Lucey explained that this description reflects his priorities in life.

“My first priority and most basic identity is the dignity of the human person, and the priesthood reflects my whole spiritual dimension,” he said. “Having authority and titles and exercising leadership would be the least important.” After he retires from Spring Hill, Fr. Lucey said he might enjoy being a retreat director or working in a parish, giving homilies and providing spiritual direction. Regardless of what path his life takes, he will take with him the fundamental principles that have served him well during his time at Spring Hill. “I think one of the reasons I don’t have another life is because I have been successful at integrating those three things,” he said. “I am a person and a priest and a president.” Editor Lindsay O’Quin is Assistant Director of Communications at Spring Hill College.

Celebrating a Presidential Milestone

PHOTOS BY SETH LAUBINGER

“Fr. Lucey exemplifies the four ‘pillars’ of leadership outlined in Chris Lowney’s book, ‘Heroic Leadership,’ which is based on the history and ‘way of proceeding’ in the Society of Jesus. Fr. Lucey is selfaware and comfortable in his own skin. He displays an incredible level of ingenuity and adaptability. Look around our campus at the people he’s brought to us and the places he’s created: he always finds a way! He conveys his genuine caring and love for all of God’s children; as he often says, ‘It’s all about relationships.’ Finally, Fr. Lucey has demonstrated heroism in taking Spring Hill College to a new level of excellence. He has advanced a heroic vision, grounded in his faith in the mission and people of Spring Hill College. He has worked tirelessly with every constituency, and the result is a transformed institution, strengthened for generations to come.” — DR. NOREEN CARROCCI, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Fr. Lucey’s 10th anniversary celebrations included a campus picnic, dinner with trustees and friends of the college, and Mass concelebrated with the Jesuits. Above, he enjoys a slideshow dedicated to his 10 years as president.

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“Fr. Lucey is well known for his gift of making friends and cultivating benefactors. He is also known for his vision of moving to the next level and building a team of professionals to make it happen. But none of this would have borne fruit without two other gifts: his perseverance through times of failure and frustration and a deep faith in God’s grace and providence.” — REV. CHRISTOPHER VISCARDI, S.J., Chair, Division of Philosophy and Theology

Fr. Lucey laughs heartily during the dinner in his honor.

“Right next to my mental image of Fr. Lucey is the unmistakable sound clip of his laugh. It’s a hearty laugh from deep inside, not too thunderous or overpowering, but with a merry delight in humor and a warm hint of delighted surprise. Whether in the campus center, in between classes, in the cafeteria, or in the library (albeit slightly subdued), noticing that distinctive sound is a surefire way to know that Fr. Lucey is near. As administrator, mentor and friend, he has always afforded me the best opportunities for personal growth and community impact, leaving considerable room for individual creativity while maintaining a ready closeness in case of crisis. To students, Fr. Lucey always offers at least a nod and a smile, an interested greeting, or, if you’re lucky, that unmistakable laugh.”

The Rev. Christopher Viscardi shows guests the T-shirts the campus community wore at the picnic. The shirts read ‘I Love Lucey’ and featured a ship, a reference to Fr. Lucey’s famous shipwreck speech he gives each year to freshmen.

“Fr. Lucey is a leader with vision. His vision has called each of us at Spring Hill to reach both inwardly to a greater understanding of Ignatian spirituality, examining ways we can become what God hopes for us, and outwardly to participate in a transformed community of living and learning in the 21st century. I appreciate the opportunity of working with Fr. Lucey; I have learned so much.” — DR. CHARMANE MAY, Executive Vice President

— BRAD HENTSCHEL ’07 At right, Fr. Lucey applauds Alabama Gov. Bob Riley, a special guest speaker at the dinner. Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

“Fr. Lucey is an ideal college president. He is not only a figure of Spring Hill College but a man I am very proud to say I know. I often attend morning Mass in the Sodality Chapel and it is there that Fr. Lucey and I have become friends. Listening to Fr. Lucey every morning gives me necessary food for thought in my daily spiritual life. I have to say that partaking in the daily Mass community has definitely enriched my Spring Hill experience. Fr. Lucey's morning homilies leave me with a challenge for each day. Moreover, I believe that Fr. Lucey speaks from the heart and that his homilies reflect the challenges that he works to accomplish in his daily life. Through this morning ritual I have not only become friends with Fr. Lucey but come to admire him as well. He is a man of true conviction, integrity and love for Spring Hill College.”

“We have been blessed for the last 10 years to know not one Greg Lucey, but three: Greg Lucey, the college president; Greg Lucey, the priest; and Greg Lucey, our friend. As president, Greg is a tremendous leader and a tireless worker who exemplifies an amazing commitment to the future of Spring Hill College. He has, in fact, saved the college and, more than that, brought it to a new level of excellence. He has assembled a wonderful leadership team. While his responsibilities often keep him on the road, he seems most at home when he is on campus interacting with students. As priest, Greg is not only the spiritual leader of the college community, but he is also the parish priest for the community who regularly attends daily Mass in the Sodality Chapel. Many of

us have come to love his insightful reflections during this special morning Mass. He lives the gospel message of loving all of his fellow men and seeing the goodness in each one of them. He inspires us to be better. As friend, Greg exemplifies the warmest kind of friendship. He has an amazing ability to take time from his busy schedule to check in with a phone call or email and remembers birthdays, anniversaries and important life events. His hearty laughter cannot fail to warm your heart and brighten your day. In summary, Greg is such an effective president for Spring Hill because he is not just a great leader but also a wonderful priest and friend. We are blessed by knowing him.” —MARY LOU ’70 and JOHN BARTER ’68, Trustees

— JENN TOULON ‘07

“During these past 10 years Greg Lucey has led the transformation of the college both structurally and as a community. He has as much energy now, fueled by hope and natural optimism, as he did 35 years ago when I first met him at Campion High School in Wisconsin.” — JOSETTA MULLOY, Director of Student Academic Services

Fr. Lucey visits with Nan Altmayer, a longtime friend and benefactor of the college. Top left, Fr. Lucey concelebrates Mass with the Jesuits. Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

“For almost 11 years I have known Fr. Lucey. Our first meeting was when he was a finalist for the Spring Hill College presidency position and I was a search committee member. At his interview the question was asked why someone with his prior experiences and achievements and his age would want to become a college president. His answer was that he wanted another challenge, was not ready to slow down, and had not been a college president. For 11 years now we have witnessed the many challenges he, along with the strong team he has built, has faced successfully. He has not and will not slow down in his efforts to make Spring Hill a better school – academically, spiritually and physically. And, we are all fortunate that he achieved his goal of becoming a college president.” — ED OVERBEY, Trustee

Left, the Most Rev. Oscar Lipscomb, archbishop of Mobile, speaks to the crowd about Fr. Lucey’s impact on Spring Hill College. Bottom left, guests at the dinner sign a caricature of Fr. Lucey. Bottom right, Fr. Lucey delivers the homily at Mass.

“When Father Greg was about to join the Society of Jesus we happened to meet in Milwaukee, and he told me I didn’t tie my tie properly. He was right. I have always tied it the way he taught me ever since. I thought it was nice of him to pass this little bit of knowledge on to me, but why shouldn’t he? He would have no use for the skill once he began to wear the Roman collar.” — PAT LUCEY, Brother

— Compiled by Lindsay O’Quin Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

Admin Building to be Named for Fr. Lucey

s part of his 10th anniversary celebrations, the Rev. Gregory F. Lucey, S.J., learned that the historic Administration Building would be named in his honor. Mrs. Nan Altmayer and John and Mary Lou Barter announced on April 26 that the Administration Building would be named the Rev. Gregory F. Lucey, S.J. Administration Center upon completion of restoration. “I can’t think of a more satisfying tribute than to have the administration center named in my honor and to have the major gift for this important project come from three dear friends,” Lucey said. “Nan Altmayer and John and Mary Lou Barter have done so much for the College and continue to be an inspiration. They care deeply about our mission and our stewardship and I am very grateful.” Altmayer and the Barters have given a substantial gift to the college with the understanding that they would share the right to name the building in honor of their good friend in recognition of his

From left, the Rev.Gregory F. Lucey, S.J., Nan Altmayer, Mary Lou Barter and John Barter stand next to the rendering of the restored Administration Building with Lucey’s name.

achievements as president of the college over the last 10 years. They made the announcement at a dinner for the trustees and friends of the college. The project entails a thorough restoration of the building, including replacement of the cupola, which was destroyed by the hurricane of 1916. Completion of the project is slated for January 2009, at which time it will be rededicated. Altmayer has made significant contributions to Spring Hill

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College initiatives, including the Altmayer Gallery in the Burke Memorial Library and the renovation and an addition to Moore Hall, a building that now bears her name, Nan Altmayer Place. The building houses the admissions offices and the president’s office. In 1999 Altmayer established the Altmayer Endowed Chair of Literature for the College. In addition, she funds two full scholarships annually for Spring Hill College students. Mary Lou Barter, class of 1970, serves on the Board of Trustees; and John Barter, class of 1968, served as a trustee for 15 years, including four years as chairman of the board. Their philanthropic interests at Spring Hill include the restoration of St. Joseph Chapel, the Barter Room in the Burke Memorial Library, the Anniversary Gardens with the “Rites of Passage” sculpture, and scholarships. A rendering of the restored Administration Building by The Architects Group shows the building will be named the Rev. Gregory F. Lucey, S.J. Administration Center.

George Will Speaks at “SCHOLARSHIPS AT SPRING HILL COLLEGE” By Lindsay O’Quin Hill College have afforded me many opportunities to overing a wide range of political topics with grow and mature mentally, physically and spiritually; his unmistakable dry wit, George Will, and all of this has prepared me for future professional Pulitzer-Prize-winning columnist and excellence,” James Newsweek essayist, said, citing the hallspared neither liberals marks of the Spring nor conservatives in Hill experience. his remarks at the In his hour-long second annual scholcommentary, Will arship dinner, warned the audience “Scholarships at of the contradiction Spring Hill College.” of the “welfare state.” Will presented He said Americans “The Political profess to hate exorArgument Today,” bitant government touching on subjects spending yet enjoy such as Social the benefits of federal Security, healthcare, programs like Social gas prices, taxes and, Security and of course, his affinity Medicaid, which for baseball. Never account for an evercracking a smile, Will increasing share of delivered his comthe federal budget, as mentary on the aging Americans are Washington political becoming more scene, sparking disreliant on course among the 475 Washington. people who attended George Will presents ‘The Political Argument Today’ at ‘Scholarships at Spring Hill College,’ which raised $50,000 toward scholarships. “I think our politics the dinner. The is a duel between two event, which took nostalgias: Conservatives want to live in the 1950s. … place on April 17, raised approximately $50,000 Liberals want to work in the 1950s,” he said. toward the Spring Hill College Scholarship Fund. Will said Americans need to realize that the counThe Rev. Gregory F. Lucey, S.J., thanked those in try is very different now from when Social Security attendance for providing deserving students with was in its early stages. In 1935 there was no such access to a Spring Hill education. Lucey said while it’s thing as retirement. As Will pointed out, “you either nice to have a beautiful campus, “we need students,” worked till you dropped or dropped shortly after you he emphasized. “We need talented young men and quit working.” women who are truly eager to make the most of the Will told the story of Ida Mae Fuller, who in 1940 educational opportunities available at Spring Hill became the first American to receive a monthly College.” Social Security check. She had worked just long Lucey recognized several outstanding students who enough to be vested in the system, having paid $24 in have not only excelled in their studies at Spring Hill Social Security taxes. Her first check from the Social but have also been accepted to graduate schools Security Administration was for $22. across the country. Among those recognized for aca“You could see there was a problem with the system demic achievement was scholarship recipient Nolan from the get-go,” Will said. “Then, in an act of very James ’08, who serves as president of the Student reckless citizenship, Ida Mae turned on her country Government Association. and lived to be 100!” “My experience here the last three years at Spring PHOTO BY SETH LAUBINGER

Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

PHOTOS BY SETH LAUBINGER

nothing is available.” As Baby Boomers Will said begin to retire, the Americans tend to American people are forget the “inconvenbecoming more reliant ient facts” when it on Washington for comes to the rising their income, Will cost of gasoline as said. “Go out to the well. “There are two streets of Mobile and I culprits involved: guarantee you if you supply and demand,” stop any person at any he said. pharmacy and ask Will said the welthem what do they fare state breeds an think of Washington, “entitlement mentalthey’ll say, ‘I hate ity,” in which Washington. I love Americans believe Social Security, they are entitled to a Medicare and The Rev. Gregory F. Lucey, S.J., recognizes students for their outstanding life free of friction. Medicaid,’” Will said. academic achievements. He said more and “That’s 43 percent of more people are the federal governreceiving checks from the ment right there.” government and fewer and Although Will used the fewer are actually paying for elderly in many of his examit. “I believe Americans are ples, he added, “I want you to becoming the crybabies of the understand that I am not Western world,” he said. against the elderly. I am Will, who admits that his elderly.” commentary might have Will addressed the backlash come across as pessimistic, against the pharmaceutical said a speaker should “always industry, which he says more end with something cheerthan anything else has ful.” So, he concluded his reduced our healthcare costs remarks by saying that by shortening the length of America is stable, for the hospital stays. most part, and that we live a “I hear it said today how country that is “fundamentalthe pharmaceutical industry ly better than the one our makes obscene profits. I cerparents and grandparents tainly hope so,” Will said lived in.” emphatically. He went on to Still, Will insists that if one say, “The sum of it is that were to take any three letters everyone in America is entiof the alphabet and put them tled to their own opinion but in any order, “you will have not their own facts.” the acronym of a federal Will said it costs approxiagency that we can do mately $1 billion to bring a without.” drug from conception to development to market. “If we start imposing price controls on our drugs, we will have what Europe has, which Above left, George Will covered topics such as Social Security, is a pharmaceutical industry healthcare, taxes and baseball. that 20 years ago was rich in innovations but no longer is,” At left, Nolan James ’08, scholarhe said. “We will be one step ship recipient and president of the closer to a healthcare system SGA talks about his Spring Hill where everything is free and experience.

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Sisterhood

NUNS FROM VIETNAM EXPERIENCE LIFE ON THE HILL By Jolie Pollard ’07

PHOTO BY GREG WITCHER ’07

Yen Le, left, and Thu Do, two nuns from Vietnam, enjoy a meal in the cafeteria with their friends.

ressed in their long black tunics and habits, Sister Thu Do, 24, and Sister Yen Le, 27, always seem to be traveling parallel to each other wherever they roam on campus. The two young women have known each other for five years, having lived together at the Congregation of the Lovers of the Holy Cross in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. During a visit to Spring Hill’s campus about a year ago, the archbishop of the Catholic Diocese in Vietnam consulted the Rev. F. Gregory Lucey, S.J., about sending a couple of students to study here, recalled Rev. Mark Lewis, S.J., associate professor of history. And, just after making their vows into religious life in July 2006, Sister Do and Sister Le were appointed by their Mother Superior, along with the archbishop, to continue their college education at Spring Hill College. This is the first time the two students are living outside their home country, and the young women expressed some hardships in being in a new environment and far away from their community of 100 sisters. “The food is completely different here,” Do said. But, despite having no rice on their breakfast plate, the sisters seem to have no trouble forming friendships within the Spring Hill community. “Immediately people introduce themselves. We can

make a long conversation about everything,” Do said in her gentle voice. Indeed they can. Both sisters, much like other 20somethings, find many ways to entertain themselves. In addition to listening and sometimes singing along to music, they also like to watch TV and most recently, to play a game of bowling. Le jokes about Do’s liking for romantic films. “She watches and wonders what her life would’ve been like if she wasn’t a nun,” Le said with a chuckle. Nevertheless, they both show confidence about their decision to have a religious vocation. The friendly sisters come from firm Catholic roots and have other family members in the religious order. In fact, Do has a younger sibling back home who is presently a novice in the religious life. Living as sisters is not as well received in Vietnam as it is in The United States. However, the young women have recognized the Communist regime’s growing laxity toward Christianity over the years, as well as amicable relationships existing between the Buddhist and Christian faiths. Do is pursuing a master’s degree in management while Le is working toward a bachelor’s degree in psychology. The sisters are active participants in Campus Ministry Masses and welcome fellow students to join them in their daily prayers.

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SENIOR SUCCESSES

Lindsay Mott and Jolie Pollard, both of whom graduated with degrees in journalism this year, had the opportunity to interview a few of their peers from the class of ’07 about their plans for the future.

JENNIFER TOULON PHOTOS BY LINDSAY O’QUIN

By Lindsay Mott ’07

Nursing major Jenn Toulon is excited about entering the next stage of life. The Tallahassee native has spent the last four years preparing herself for a nursing career inside and outside the classroom. She says she has received a well-rounded education by having to take classes she wouldn’t have at a state school. Toulon has also pushed herself to seek opportunities and accomplishments outside Spring Hill. For the past two years she has served as president of the Alabama Association of Nursing Students and found her own volunteer opportunities in the area. On campus, she participated in SGA and a multicultural student program. She is also a member of the nursing honor’s society and Alpha Sigma Nu. The next step for Toulon is joining the pediatric intensive care unit at Duke University as a registered nurse. She believes she earned this position because she pushed to get a position in the pediatric intensive care unit at the USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital for her practicum. Toulon’s long-term goals are to get her doctorate and teach nursing, but she plans to spend a good bit of time working in a hospital first so she can teach from first-hand experience. With her time at Spring Hill coming to an end, she leaves a word of advice for incoming freshmen: “Seize every opportunity and go outside the box. Look further than what’s handed to you. There’s always something to get involved in.”

JAMES COLEMAN By Jolie Pollard ’07

Eruditely spoken and having a witty sense of humor are just a couple qualities that many attribute to 22-year-old James Coleman. Graduating with a bachelor’s in English with a minor in philosophy and creative writing, Coleman says Spring Hill, “hands down,” has more than prepared him for graduate school. The core curriculum at Spring Hill has given him the background and the opportunity to “really focus academically.” “Spring Hill really allows you to spread your interest. … That’s a big advantage that I’ll miss,” he says. And he’ll also miss a few professors whom he says helped him overcome personal struggles and encour-

aged him to pursue his dream. “I think the English department is where, in a sense, every professor is willing to talk to you on a very personal level,” he says. Coleman is ready to go after his dream. “I want to teach, I want a Ph.D., and I want to research medieval renaissance in the field of medieval literature,” he says. But, ultimately, this student, who is welcomed in almost every social circle on campus, has intentions to give his cohort a voice in the writing world. “I feel like our generation of 18- to 22-year-olds haven’t been adequately represented in literature. … All I want to do is push in the chips – the Spring Hill chip, the 2007-2008, 22-year-old chip,” he says. Coleman plans to begin his track toward pushing in those “chips” when he enrolls in the master’s and Ph.D. in literature program at the University of Virginia this fall.

FINN COX

By Lindsay Mott ’07 Philosophy and Hispanic studies double major Finn Cox had the option of attending one of eight law schools after graduation, but he has chosen the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University. “Having gone to Spring Hill, I like the personal feel and community, and I got that same feel,” he says about choosing Cumberland. He also chose Cumberland because of its focus on trial skills, which gets students ready to try actual cases. He has not fully decided on his plans after law school. Cox says he will probably practice law for a firm for a while, and he has also thought about a career in military law and politics. Cox says his core and major classes have fully prepared him for law school. “The core curriculum prepares students to be versatile in all situations and prepares you well for law school and graduate school in the arts,” Cox says. He said he has also picked up analytical skills and better reading and writing skills that will help him in law school and in future plans. Cox has been a seminar leader for three years, tutored within his major, and served as SGA senior class senator. He also spent his spring break in Nicaragua for a service trip. He is a member of the philosophy honor society, Phi Sigma Tau. Cox says he will miss the people at Spring Hill the most. He has made a lot of great friends, and “it will be much harder to see some of my best friends” with everyone going in different directions.

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ALISHA LACOUR By Jolie Pollard ’07

Ever since her experience meddling in a biology course during her senior year in high school, Alisha Lacour knew exactly what her college major would be. A radiologist and physician who was her father’s colleague thought Spring Hill was the right place for Lacour to enroll in a pre-med program. “(He said) ‘They have a really awesome pre-med program there’ so I came here and looked, and he was definitely right,” Lacour says. Lacour has carried a G.P.A. of 3.9 for the past two years and is heading to LSU New Orleans Medical School to pursue a career in medicine. But, making it this far didn’t start out too easy. Her freshman year she got B’s and C’s, and in her sophomore year organic chemistry and anatomy and physiology gnawed at her. “That was just a very deciding year for me. … I either had to change my major or buckle down and really, really study and get really involved in my major,” she says. Having decided that being a doctor was her dream, she chose the latter. Lacour gives much credit to her mentors such as Dr. Lesli Bordas, associate professor of chemistry, who welcomed her questions outside the classroom, and Dr. David Dean, professor of biology, who taught Lacour how to study and be a dedicated student. Lacour says, “You have to be someone intelligent, but the main thing is persistence and dedication … I’m really thankful that I came here because I don’t think I could have had the educational experience anywhere else.”

CEDERICK McMILLAN By Lindsay Mott ’07

Mobile native Cederick McMillan has spent his time at Spring Hill learning in his classes and applying that knowledge outside the classroom. The political science and theology double major is heavily involved in the Prichard community and is also youth minister at his church, Pure Word Ministries. He was recently elected as president of the Prichard Chamber of Commerce, which he said was a huge honor for him. He will graduate with double honor cords, as he is a member of the national honor societies for both political science and theology. McMillan’s plans after graduation are to enter the

Master of Arts in Teaching program at Spring Hill, with a focus on secondary education, and to continue his work in the Prichard community. “I want to focus on still growing the Chamber of Commerce and building relationships with the chamber, the city and business owners,” he says. McMillan will also be married the day before graduation. McMillan is thankful for his time at Spring Hill and feels he has learned a lot by being at the school. “I believe Spring Hill has prepared me holistically to be a successful leader, Christian and business person,” he says. He loves the mission of the school and this year’s theme, and he feels he has become a better person through his time at Spring Hill. “Truly Spring Hill has been successful in its mission,” he says. “I am thankful to have been a part of such a great institution.”

MARGARET SANDERS By Jolie Pollard ’07

Margaret Sanders is leaving Spring Hill College having successfully completed a double major in mathematics and philosophy along with a minor in chemistry. Her accomplishments have warranted a graduate assistantship at Florida State University, where she’ll be taking on the interdisciplinary field of mathematical biology. What drives Sanders to challenge herself? “I don’t know,” she says with a humble and shy laugh. As for how she chose her track at Spring Hill, Sanders says, “I always wanted to get my doctorate degree in math. I like math. I didn’t know what philosophy was, but I took logic, and I liked logic so I took philosophy. … Somewhere along the line I added in a chem. minor.” And while tackling the course load, which included the notorious organic chemistry, Sanders managed to squeeze time in her schedule for her relationship with then-study-partner, Spring Hill alumnus James “Jimmy” Watts ’06, who is now her fiance. He also attends graduate school at FSU, but Sanders makes sure to point out that he’s not the only reason she’s moving to the Sunshine State. “Florida State has an awesome program,” she says. Sanders says she’s looking forward to working in research. She talks about the works of current students in the program, which includes a brain mapping project and research into diseases such as Alzheimer’s and diabetes. “Depending on what you get into, you can contribute to the world in a better way. ... I want to do something with my life,” she says.

Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

PHOTO BY KEITH NECAISE

OUTSTANDING ALUMNI HONORED AT PRESIDENT’S DINNER

2007 Alumni Award recipients, from left, are Dr. Bryan Bertucci ’73, Ignatian Award; Brother Neal Golden, S.C. ’61, Gautrelet Award; Rev. Richard McGowan, S.J. ’53 accepting for Rev. Edmundo Rodriguez, S.J. ’59, Gautrelet Award; and Dr. Katy Phelan ’75, Gautrelet Award

pring Hill College honored four outstanding alumni at the President’s Dinner on March 22 as part of the Homecoming on the Hill celebration.

THE IGNATIAN AWARD The Ignatian Award is presented to an alumnus or alumna in recognition of community service in keeping with the ideals set forth by St. Ignatius Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus, and reflected in selfless acts of humanitarianism.

BRYAN BERTUCCI, M.D. ’73 – B.S., BIOLOGY Since 1983 Dr. Bryan Bertucci has practiced medicine in the New Orleans area. He has been president and chief of staff of the medical executive committee of Chalmette Medical Center, president of the St. Bernard Parish Medical Society and is board certified in family practice. Bertucci received the Freshman Cup for Service to Spring Hill College in 1969, thus beginning an adulthood distinguished by many awards for years of service to others. In 2006 he received a Collifontanum Award for Professional Achievement from Spring Hill College. When he graduated from

medical school in 1980, he was named the Outstanding Student in Family Practice. Bertucci was the St. Bernard Parish coroner from 2000 until 2006, and in that capacity he was responsible for retrieval, identification and autopsies of the 154 residents of St. Bernard Parish who died as a result of Hurricane Katrina. Bertucci has been a medical director of several nursing homes, a home health organization and a hospice program. Additionally, he has served as a Eucharistic minister, and was given the Thelma Deano Outstanding Red Cross Board Member Award in 2000. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina’s destruction of the New Orleans area, Bertucci was instrumental in acquiring land, a building, renovation funds, personnel and medical equipment for a 22,000-squarefoot temporary medical clinic to serve area residents. With the help of his wife and another physician, Bertucci created a directory that ultimately included more than 90 of the 110 physicians displaced by Hurricane Katrina, so patients could locate their former physicians. In recognition of his extraordinary service in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Bertucci received the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals Award for Excellence and Leadership and the American Academy of Family Practice Award for Outstanding Medical Service to the Community in a Time of Disaster. Bertucci will appear in Washington, D.C. in May 2007 before a Department of Energy and Commerce subcommittee to request funds for a new hospital to meet the medical needs of St. Bernard Parish in New Orleans.

GAUTRELET AWARD The Gautrelet Award, named after the Rev. Francis Gautrelet, S.J., the first Jesuit president of Spring Hill College, is presented to individuals with high integrity who have demonstrated outstanding personal achievement.

MARY CATHERINE “KATY” PHELAN, PH.D. ’71 – B.S., BIOLOGY Dr. Katy Phelan is the director of the Molecular Pathology Laboratory Network’s cytogenetics laboratory in Maryville, Tenn., which she founded in 2004. She received her doctorate in human genetics from the Medical College of Virginia in 1982. After

Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

completing a postdoctoral fellowship in cytogenetics, Phelan directed a cytogenetics lab in South Carolina for 17 years. During that time she identified a chromosomal abnormality that largely defines a disorder now named after her – the Phelan-McDermid Syndrome. In 2001 Phelan received the Basic Health Sciences Outstanding Alumnus Award from the Medical College of Virginia, and in 1989, she was named Young Career Woman of the Year in the state of South Carolina. She has two children, Maureen, 16, and David, 14. In addition to balancing a full-time career with parenting, Phelan volunteers with the Girl Scouts and the Red Cross, is an exercise enthusiast, and rows with the Smoky Mountain Rowing Club.

THE REV. EDMUNDO RODRIGUEZ, S.J. ’59 – B.A., EDUCATION The Rev. Edmundo Rodriguez, S.J., is the pastor of Immaculate Conception Church in Albuquerque, N.M., a position he has held since 2000. After receiving his master’s degree in 1960, Rodriguez did postgraduate work and taught for several years. Perhaps his most far-reaching impact on his community was when he served as the organizing committee chair of COPS, the Communities Organized for Public Service, in San Antonio, Texas. COPS changed the political face of San Antonio by causing the city council to change from at-large elections to elections by districts, thus including minority views on the council. Rodriguez has been appointed the provincial’s assistant for pastoral and international apostolates, the provincial superior of the New Orleans Province, and the spiritual director and academic dean at Holy Trinity Seminary in Irving, Texas. Rodriguez has worked with the National Catholic Committee on Hispanic Ministry, the Woodstock Theological Center and the Mexican-American Cultural Center. He is the co-founder of PADRES, a national organization of MexicanAmerican Priests, which was responsible for Mexican-American priests being appointed as bishops.

Does Someone You Know Deserve an Award? Spring Hill College presents several honors annually to outstanding alumni and non-alumni who, through various acts and achievements, have shown their commitment to Spring Hill College and their communities. What follows is a brief description of each award and a nomination form. We encourage you to take a few minutes to nominate outstanding individuals who deserve recognition in these areas. Ignatian Award – Presented to alumni in recognition of community service in keeping with the ideals set forth by St. Ignatius Loyola. This award recognizes those who have dedicated their spirit to making a difference in the lives of others through selfless acts of humanitarianism. Karopczyc Award – This award is named after Lt. Stephen E. Karopczyc ’65, Medal of Honor recipient killed in service during the Vietnam War. The award recognizes a young alumnus, fewer than 10 years from his/her graduation date, for outstanding service to the College or community. Gautrelet Award – Presented to an alumnus or non-alumnus of high integrity who has demonstrated outstanding professional achievement. Athletic Hall of Fame – This award is presented to athletes and coaches who have made outstanding contributions to Spring Hill College or who have made significant achievements in their athletic or sports careers. In adherence to the descriptions above, I hereby nominate:

Nominee:______________________________________ Date Submitted:____________Class (if known):_______ Address:_______________________________________ City/State/Zip Code______________________________

BROTHER NEAL GOLDEN, S.C. ’61 – B.S., SECONDARY EDUCATION

Professional Affiliation:___________________________

Brother Neal Golden is founder, director and president of the Academic Games Leagues of America, president of the Greater New Orleans Teacher of Mathematics and Chair of the Technology Committee of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Golden, chair of the Department of Computer Science at Brother Martin High School in New Orleans, La., has a long and very distinguished career in teaching. Before earning his Ph.D. in mathematics, Golden designed and taught the first high school course for credit in computer science in the state of Louisiana. In 1975 he wrote the first high school computer programming textbook in the United States and has authored and co-authored four additional computer and mathematics textbooks. Golden has been chair of the Louisiana Computer Literacy Committee and was a charter member of the Mathematical Sciences Education Board of the National Research Council in Washington, D.C. During his career as a Brother of the Sacred Heart, Golden has been recognized with numerous awards for excellence in teaching.

For the Following Award(s):_______________________ Reasons for Nomination:__________________________ ________________________________________________ Submitted by:___________________________________ Address:________________________________________ City/State/Zip Code:______________________________ Phone: _________________________Class:__________ Please detach and send this completed form to: Office of Alumni Programs 4000 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36608 Or, complete online at www.shc.edu/slumni-and-friends If you have questions about any of these awards, please call the Alumni Office toll-free at (877) SPR-HILL.

Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

HOMECOMING ON THE HILL By Greta Sharp

Members of the class of 1972 pose for a picture on the steps of Byrne Memorial Hall after ‘graduating’ under the Avenue of the Oaks.

PHOTOS BY SETH LAUBINGER AND KEITH NECAISE

ardi Gras happened twice in Mobile this year, as the 2007 Homecoming on the Hill concluded with a carnival celebration in the college’s Arthur Outlaw Recreation Center. More than 200 guests attended the Mardi Gras-themed party, complete with beads, king cakes and a jazz band. As the Bay City Brass Band entered the party, alumni and guests leaped to their feet to join the musicians in a second line around the room in true Mardi Gras fashion. Another of the evening’s events was a silent auction filled with Spring Hill College artwork, gift baskets and even a chance to name one of the oaks on the Avenue of the Oaks. The auction raised $5,710 to benefit the National Alumni Association Brown-Oliver Scholarship Fund, which is awarded annually to the child or grandchild of an alumnus. President D.R. Atkinson '57 and his wife, J.C., Gregory F. Lucey, are recognized by the Rev. Gregory F. Lucey, S.J., for their support of the 1830 S.J., took to the stage after the sec- Planning Giving Society. ond line extravaganza, honoring the work done by alumni classes for fundraising efforts. More than $258,800 was raised by the 10 different reunion classes, and money will continue to be accepted through May 31. This year, two special awards were presented to honor extraordinary fundraising efforts. The Reunion Cup was presented to the class with the greatest overall giving participation rate, the class of 1957 with 36.3 percent of its members giving. The class raising the greatest overall dollar amount was awarded the President’s Cup, going to the class of 1982 with a total of $57,250. D.R. Atkinson ’57 of Baton Rouge, La., presented Lucey a check for the grand total raised and accepted the Reunion Cup on behalf of his class. Roland O’Leary ’82 of Johnson City, Tenn., accepted the President’s Cup for the class of 1982.

Alumni enjoy letting the good times roll at the Mardi Gras-themed celebration held Saturday night.

While Jack Schuessler ’73, chairman of the Board of Trustees, has attended Homecoming weekends before, this marked a special occasion as he accompanied his daughter Penny for her 10-year reunion. “It’s the first time she’s been back, and it’s a thrill showing her around campus,” Schuessler said, explaining the special bond Spring Hill alumni share. “You see all the progress and you think back and see how much has happened in the transformation of Spring Hill.” To Penny Schuessler Lykins ‘97, the 10 years since she graduated have brought about many changes to the physical campus. “To see my father help further the vision, to help continue the growth and beautification, it’s amazing,” Lykins said. “You always have a connection no matter how long it’s been. You can always come back.” A very special highlight marked her return to Spring Hill College. “I took communion today for the first time at Spring Hill College at St. Joseph from Fr. Lucey. It meant a lot to me that he was presiding at

Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

Mass and that my father was there,” she said. “Being at Spring Hill College solidified my relationship with the Church because of the education and respect for the Church that all the students had at Spring Hill.” For alumni like Elin Murphy ’78, catching up with old friends was a top priority. With Murphy’s daughter as a current SHC student, she’s been able to see firsthand the changes to the campus. “The new beautiful buildings,” Murphy said. “I love them. I love the advancement of the campus. I love seeing the renovation of old buildings, too.” Being so closely connected with a student also keeps the Spring Hill tradition alive for Murphy. For members of the class of 1972, such as Ron Sims, a highlight of the weekend was getting to walk down the Avenue of the Oaks to “graduate.” He also noted the new library and residence halls. “It’s amazing the work — Ron Sims ’72 that has been done,” Sims said. “I graduated in ’72 and the overall feeling of the place has not changed. The buildings may change, but the feeling will never change.” Even recent graduates are surprised at the changes on campus. “It’s changed so much I feel like I didn’t go here,” said Mike Henderson ’92. “The improvements are remarkable: the Outlaw Center, the library and dorms. In ‘92 there wasn’t a facility like this. Most of the dorms were run down. There’s a new sense of pride. Fr. Lucey’s done a wonderful job.” That new sense of pride is accompanied by a long-term focus for the campus. “I’m super impressed with the architecture,” said John Grady ’77. “They’ve tied in everything aesthetically well. There’s a whole plan. I’m very impressed. I’m pleased to see the college do so well.”

“I graduated in ’72 and the overall feeling of the place has not changed. The buildings may change, but the feeling will never change.”

Above, alumni from the class of 1982 enjoy sharing stories at their 25-year reunion celebration held at Stewartfield. At left, Dr. John Hafner ’60, professor of English, enjoys reconnecting with young alumni at the Mobile Bay Boil. At left, Mike Mimnaugh, Rudy Stonisch, Pete Ragland and Mike Gamauf reconnect at the 1992 class party held at the Stonisch Fieldhouse.

Above, members of the class of 1957 were honored with 50-year medals and golden diplomas during the Golden Badger Dinner. At left, members of the class of 1997 enjoy the Mobile Bay Boil.

Greta Sharp is a freelance writer living in Mobile. Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

CLASSNOTES 1940s William J. Schaffer Jr. ’47 and his wife, Alice, recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. Bill retired from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Merchants (Regions) Bank. Alice is a retired principal of Mobile County Public Schools. The couple has two daughters and three granddaughters and one great grandson, the first boy in the family in more than 80 years. They reside in Mobile.

1950s Patricia Pergantis Barr ’58 is the recipient of the 2006 Lifetime Achievement Award of Vestavia Hills, Ala. The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes citizens who have devoted many years of service to the city. Patricia is a former president of the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce and is in her 12th year serving on the Planning and Zoning Commission. She and her husband, Jack, reside in Vestavia Hills.

1960s Rosalie Pergantis Lockhart ’60 is a mediator with the Baldwin County District Courts. She resides at the Pergantis Farms in Daphne, Ala.

1970s Denis McCarthy ’72 and his wife, Mary Ann, live in Lilburn, Ga. They have been married for 31 years and have six children. Three children have graduated from college, including Maureen McCarthy McIntosh ’01. Two of their children are currently seniors at St. Louis University. Denis and Mary Ann have two grandchildren. Denis is president of Radio Communications Inc. in Norcross, Ga. Christopher E. Peters ’72 and his wife, Lisa, have four children. He has practiced law in Mobile for 31 years. In his spare time he enjoys sailing his boat on extended cruises in the Bahamas and the Gulf. Teresa F. Cesarano ’77 is employed with Cozen O’Connor as a paralegal in Miami, Fla.

Carolyn M. Coyne, MD, MHA ’77 is the senior medical consultant with the Washington State Medicaid program. She lives in Olympia, Wash., with her life partner, Connie Riddle. She and Connie enjoy entertaining their three grandchildren, DeVere, Govan and Gianna as often as they can.

Jaime William Betbeze ’87 has been selected to serve on the board of directors of the Alabama Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Jaime recently served as honorary chairman of the Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Mobile Leadership Class of 2006. In this capacity, he led the class of 2006 in their fundraising efforts to help find a cure for MS. Jaime is a partner in Hand Arendall’s Mobile office, where he practices in the fields of admiralty and construction law. He and his wife, Sydney Dann Betbeze, live in Mobile. They have two children, Mary Dann Betbeze, born in 1999, and Jenna Betbeze, born in 2001.

Leo Ounanian, Jr. ’77 is vice president of GTM Services, Ltd. in Houston, Texas. He and his wife, Joan, live in Bellame, Texas. Father Joe Culotta ’79 has been appointed pastor of Saint Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church in Birmingham, Ala. He continues to serve as a diocesan consultor and on the priest’s personnel board.

1990s

1980s JoAnn C. Jenkins ’80 was appointed chief operating officer of the Library of Congress by Librarian of Congress James H. Billington. Effective Jan 1, she has full authority and responsibility for the dayto-day operation of the Library of Congress. For the past 10 years she has served as chief of staff for the library. She is active in several organizations including the Links Inc. and Jack & Jill of America Inc. She is a founding member of the U.S.-Japan Young Leaders Program and a member of the AARP Services Board of Directors. She is married to Frank G. Jenkins, Ed.D. They have two children, Christian and Nicole Jenkins. Cindy Ellis Bray ’81 made a career change to legal nurse consulting after Hurricane Katrina displaced from her job as a neonatal nurse at Memorial Medical Center. She has recently been hired as a nurse paralegal at the New Orleans Law Firm of Chaffe McCall, LLP. Her oldest son will graduate from the Naval Academy this year, her oldest daughter is studying design at LSU, and her youngest son is studying computer science at the University of New Orleans.

Joe Crumley ’91 recently accepted a position with DFW Funding Solutions as their vice president – sales manager. Joe resides in Dallas, Texas. John “David” Jernigan ’92 is vice president for Lamar Advertising in Suwanee, Ga. He married Elizabeth “Jane” Jernigan in 1994, and they have three children, Caroline, Anna and Sage. Kevin Louis O’Gorman ’92 was promoted in 2004 to principal of North Aiken Elementary School in Aiken, S.C. He earned his Ph.D. in educational administration from the University of South Carolina in May 2006. He also earned his M.A. in teaching and his M.Ed. in educational administration from the University of South Carolina. Marlo (Carney) Zarzaur ’92 and Ben Zarzaur ’92 live in Memphis, Tenn. Marlo completed her Doctorate in Counseling in 2004. She has a private practice in Germantown, Tenn., treating children and adolescents. She is also a consultant and counselor for Incarnation Catholic School and an adjunct professor at the University of Memphis. Ben completed his surgery residency through the University of Tennessee in Memphis in 2003. He then completed a

Masters in Public Health at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill in 2006. He is employed as an assistant professor of surgery in the Division of Trauma and Critical Care. He works as a trauma surgeon at The Med in Memphis. Amalia Chaser ’96 married Casey Chesser in 2000. They are the proud parents of two children, Julia, 5, and Andrew, 2. The couple lives in Old Town, Fla. where Amalia teaches third grade at James M. Anderson Elementary School.

2000s

“You Thought Your Night Was Bad,” made its debut on Jan. 11 at Donny’s Skybox. Andrew is a student at The Second City in Chicago. Gregory M. Schram ’06 is employed as a Medicare specialist with the Railroad Retirement Board. He resides in Chicago, Ill.

MARRIAGES Arthur J. Martin Sr. ’59 joined Ann S. Neathery in marriage on Dec. 15, 2006, in Westminster, Md. Both are retired and residing in Sykesville/Eldersburg, Md.

Alicia M. Jacob ’00 is employed with Galloway, Wettermark, Everest, Rutens & Gaillard, LLP, in Mobile, Ala. Alicia’s husband, Robert Corley, has been promoted to regional claims manager with Progressive Insurance. The couple lives in Mobile.

Mary Ellen Zoghby ’85 was married Nov. 25, 2006, to Kevin Lee Bradley in Mobile. The couple resides in Mobile where Mary Ellen works as marketing communications coordinator for The Architects Group Inc., and Kevin is the associate editor/arts editor for The Lagniappe newspaper.

Jean-Paul “JP” Morrell ’01 was elected to the Louisiana State House of Representatives in a special election on Nov. 7, 2006. He serves as the state representative for District 97, which encompasses the Gentilly Area in New Orleans. He is the youngest member of the Louisiana Legislature.

Amy Brooke (Bascle) Scott ’97 married Steven Mitchell Scott on Dec. 30, 2006. Steven is the father of two daughters, Reagan, 10, and Logan, 5. The couple completed their Master in Counseling degrees this semester and resides in Rock Springs, Ga.

B.J. Bertucci ’03 and his wife, Christina Przybylski Bertucci ’01, have relocated from Chalmette, La. to Gonzales, just outside Baton Rouge, La., following Hurricane Katrina. Eugene Ramierez ’05 has joined Central Florida News 13 as an anchor/reporter. Eugene resides in Orlando, Fla. Claire Walker ’05 assisted the Florida Democratic Party-House Victory effort as the deputy political director in April 2006. She served as an aid in the party’s largest legislative gain in more than 30 years and the sixth largest gain nationwide among state legislatures in 2006. Andrew Crider ’06 cowrote a play that was accepted for production in Chicago. The play, titled

Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

Liz Heacock ’01 married Samuel Coverdale on May 20, 2006, in Mobile at the Government Street Presbyterian Church, followed by a reception at Spring Hill’s Stewartfield. Liz’s bridesmaids, all from the class of 2001, were: Maureen McCarthy McIntosh, Sara Kathryn Skilling Hill and Theresa Bertucci Truxillo. Both Liz and Sam work for International Paper in Memphis, Tenn. Karen (Whalen) Popp ’01 and Nicholas Popp were married on July 15, 2006, in San Antonio, Fla. Karen and Nicholas reside in Byron, Ga., where Karen works for Merck Pharmaceuticals and Nicholas is a captain in the United States Air Force, stationed at Robins Air Force Base.

Katherine Lee Brown ’03 and Scott Michael Gristina ’02 married April 22, 2006, during a nuptial Mass at St. Joseph Chapel on the campus of Spring Hill College. Following the ceremony, the reception was held at the Louise Moorer Commons at Spring Hill. Katherine earned her Master in Occupational Therapy from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2005. Scott earned his Master of Business Administration from the University of New Orleans in 2005. The Gristinas reside in Mandeville, La. Keenan Carrere ’03 married Brian Mann on Oct. 13, 2006, in New Orleans, La. They live in Davidson, N.C. Lauryn Pollard ’03 and Jim Walker married on April 21, 2007, in Carrilon Beach, Fla. They live in Birmingham, Ala. Kelly Spinucci ’03 and Jason Tickle were married on Nov. 11, 2006, in Memphis, Tenn. They reside in Memphis. Kelly works as a registered nurse in the intensive care unit at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and will finish her Master of Science in Nursing degree as a pediatric clinical nurse specialist/pediatric nurse practitioner in May. Debra Hughes ’05 is pleased to announce the engagement and forthcoming marriage of her daughter, Kathleen Tucker Hughes, to Sellers Dorlon Payne, son of Mrs. Paula Payne of Montrose and Mr. Weldon Payne of Montgomery. Kathleen is a graduate of Bayside Academy and Spring Hill College. She is a clinical psychology doctoral student at the University of Southern Mississippi. Sellers is a graduate of Fairhope High School and the University of South Alabama. He is employed as a real estate appraiser in Mobile and Baldwin County. The couple plans to marry in May 2007 and will reside in Spanish Fort, Ala.

BIRTHS Paul Christman ’86 and Trisha Faulkner proudly announce the birth of their baby boy, Cameron John Christman, born on Sept. 5, 2006. Cameron and his older brother, Nathan, 2, reside in Farmington, Pa., where Paul is the controller for Nemacolin Woodlands Resort. David Hall ’87 and Pamela (Brown) Hall ’00 are happy to announce the birth of their second daughter, Julia Eugenia, born on Feb. 7, 2006. Jacqueline Klock ’87 and Keith Frey announce the birth of their first child, Sebastian Shane Frey, born on Dec. 6, 2005. Jackie, Keith and Sebastian live in the Atlanta area where Jackie is a senior manager of data marketing for Cingular Wireless. Justin Foltz ’92 and his wife, Rebecca, welcomed their third daughter, Jane Ashley, born June 2, 2006. Justin is an investment broker with Capital One Investments, LLC, and Rebecca is a teacher at Our Lady of Prompt Succor School. The Foltz family lives in Alexandria, La. Anne (Barkofske) Dielschneider ’93 and her husband, Kevin, welcomed their second son, Luke Francis, on Oct. 4, 2006. He joins 2-year-old brother Jack. They live in St. Louis, Mo. Larry and Kelly Lenning ’93 announce the birth of their first child, Darby Quinn Lenning. Darby was born on Sept. 15, 2006, in Louisville, Ky. Greg Simpson ’93 and his wife, Leigh, proudly announce the birth of their first child, William Gregory, born on Dec. 1, 2006. The Simpsons reside in Athens, Ga. Jennifer Janet Medo ’94 and Steven Medo III proudly announce the birth of their daughter, Emily Anne Medo. She was born Jan.11, 2007, weighing 7 pounds 9 ounces. Emily joins her 2-year-old sister,

Mallory. The Medo family lives in New Orleans, La. Heather Momper Leonard ’94 and her husband, Brian, announce the birth of their third daughter, Nora Kathleen, who was born on June 12, 2006. Nora is enjoying her big sisters Grace, 5, and Caitlin, 3. The Leonard family resides in Cincinnati, Ohio. Elizabeth Goodwin Welborn ’94 and her husband, Hearst, are proud to announce the birth of their son, John Hearst Welborn III, born January 22, 2007. John Hearst joins his big sister, Camille, 18 months. The Welborns reside in Tiburon, Calif.

Paola Conosciani Berardi ’99 and her husband, Chris, are pleased to announce the birth of their son, Cristian Louis Berardi, who was born on Sept. 26, 2006. Cristian Louis weighed 7 pounds and was 19 inches long. The Berardis reside in Moorestown, N.J.

Lara (Goeke) Walker ’99 and Jamie Walker of Mobile, Ala., are happy to announce the birth of their son, Riley, who was born on Nov. 24, 2006. He is welcomed by his big sister, Emily.

Sherry Aycock Cumbest ’99 and her husband, Kelly Cumbest, are the proud parents of their second child, Iain Quinn, born on Aug. 16, 2006. He is welcomed by his big brother, Colin, 4.

Matthew N. Simmons, M.D., Ph.D. ’95 and his wife, Rachael Ream, Ph.D., are happy to announce the birth of their daughter, Annabel Elise Simmons. She was born on Dec. 30, 2006. The Simmons reside in Cleveland, Ohio. Rachael is finishing law school at Case Western Reserve University and will be pursuing a career in patent law. Matthew is a urologist at the Cleveland Clinic. They are enjoying life in the Midwest and they miss their friends from the Hill.

IN MEMORIAM SHIRLEY JEAN CARUSO JAMES RAYMOND CRESSON IRENE CROWLEY MARY JOE TACON JOSEPH COSTA JR. ’31 WILLIAM C. CLAIBORNE ’39 JOHN B. GOETZ ’41 GLEN TRAVIS ’41 JOHN ELSEVIER ’42 PAUL O. VILLIEN SR. ’42

Michelle Hoobler Cook ’96 and her husband, Stacey, welcomed a baby girl, Carlen Grace Cook, on July 17, 2006. The Cook family lives in Mobile, Ala. Alice Hull Lachaussee ’96 and her husband, Matt, announce the birth of their first child, Evelyn Faith, born June 9, 2006. Evelyn Faith was 7 pounds 4 ounces. Alice teaches history at SHC and Tulane University – Biloxi campus. The Lachaussee family lives in Pascagoula, Miss.

DAVID A. AZAR ’50 REV. PATRICK HERMAN KOCH, S.J. ’50 PAUL T. BISHOP ’51 ANTHONY J. CARANNA ’52 THOMAS EDWARD TILL JR. ’57 JOHN T. STEINER SR. ’58 THOMAS STEPHEN GLEASON SR. ’59 ELIZABETH ROCHE KENNEDY ’59 ANN CRABTREE ROSEN ’59 ANTHONY MCNAMARA ’62

Stephen Quina ’96 and his wife, Shawna, welcomed their son, Jake D’Olive Quina, who was born on Aug. 23, 2006.

WILLIAM C. NIJEM ’65

Allison Acrey ’99 and her husband, Scott, are happy to announce the birth of their daughter, Caroline Cecile Acrey, born on Nov. 7, 2006.

DR. RAMON G. HANNAH ’68

Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

MICHELE K. COODY ’68 WILLIAM HAJESKI ’68

ROBERT BLAHNIK ’79 KERRI CRONIN ’79

CHAPTERUPDATES ATLANTA On Jan. 18 the Atlanta Chapter held an organizational meeting to look at the year ahead. With new chapter president Frank Butterfield ’00 at the helm, a lively group of alumni gathered to share an array of thoughts and ideas about the future of the chapter. The next Atlanta Chapter event will be an outing to watch home team Atlanta Braves take on the Arizona Diamondbacks, and there are other events in the works for later this year.

beer and brats dinner. Hosts Mary Grace and Kevin ’66 Burke welcomed guests to the new center on April 14 for an evening of delicious food, sampling of a wide variety of beer and other adult beverages, and a tour of the facility.

An enthusiastic bunch of alumni gather in Memphis to celebrate Mardi Gras the SHC way. Shirley and Price ’47 LeBlanc and Dan ’51 and Percival LeBlanc at the Baton Rouge alumni reception.

BATON ROUGE Krista ’92 and Christopher ’91 Valluzzo opened their home in Baton Rouge on March 1 to celebrate fun and friends on a beautiful spring evening. A popular local catering company provided the delicious buffet menu that was enjoyed by approximately 31 alumni and friends. Missy and Dave Cresson, both ’93, and Michael Olinde ’88 were co-hosts for the evening.

MEMPHIS The Memphis Chapter also held a Mardi Gras party to celebrate the season at the home of Charlotte ’93 and Mike ’92 Henderson. On Saturday, Jan. 27 approximately 30 alumni gathered to enjoy some homemade gumbo and moon pies from Mobile while they shared stories about their days on the Hill.

BIRMINGHAM On Thursday, Feb.15 the Birmingham Chapter chose the Open Door Café, a neighborhood hot spot in Crestline Park, as the venue for its appropriately timed Mardi Gras King Cake Happy Hour. Chapter president Megan Wyatt ’95 supplied the king cake, and about 30 alumni came out for the event.

Scott Angle ’92, Jackie Angle ’92, Mimi Strasavich ’92, Mike Strasavich ’91, and Kelly Hughes ’00 at the Mobile Mardi Gras celebration.

MOBILE From left, Barry Hue ’90, Carlos Cuadrado ’90, Steve Kocian ’94, and chapter president Mike Gamauf ’92 at the Chicago alumni party.

CHICAGO Nearly 60 alumni and friends gathered at Burke Beverage, Inc., one of Chicago’s premiere Miller beer distribution centers, for a

The Mobile Chapter celebrated Mardi Gras here in its native city with a pre-parade gathering at Downtown Mobile’s Mardi Gras-themed bar The Krewe. On Feb. 13, approximately 23 alumni and friends enjoyed happy hour and a festive meal of red beans and rice, muffalettas and king cake. Then they strolled a few blocks together to the parade route to watch the Order of LaShe’s roll through the streets.

Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

Alumni and friends enjoy delicious boiled crawfish at an event hosted by Lauren Lemmon ’85 and her parents in New Orleans.

NEW ORLEANS Just outside of New Orleans, on Bayou Gauche, more than 30 alumni and their families gathered for a traditional Louisiana crawfish boil. Hot, boiled crawfish, beverages and hot dogs for the kids were served while the relaxed setting allowed alumni and friends an opportunity to mingle. A special thanks to Lauren Lemmon ’85 and her parents, Harry and Mary Ann Lemmon, for hosting this wonderful get-together.

Kevin Rys ’99 and Sean Hengesbach ’98 at the alumni happy hour in Tampa.

TAMPA The National Alumni Association hosted a Mardi Gras-themed happy hour in Tampa at Valencia Garden restaurant on Feb. 23. Approximately 19 alumni and friends celebrated with a delicious menu of tapas in a private room that was decorated to bring a taste of Mobile Bay area Mardi Gras down to the Tampa Bay area. Guests expressed interest in continuing to organize events in the area, so be on the lookout for more to come this fall.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON UPCOMING ALUMNI EVENTS, VISIT www.shc.edu/alumni-and-friends

Fundraiser hosts take a moment from their duties to smile for the camera at the St. Louis alumni event.

ST. LOUIS For the second year in a row, the St. Louis Chapter held a fundraiser to finance the chapter scholarship that is awarded annually to a local student. This year the scholarship was renamed in memory of Daniel C. Aubuchon ’69, a beloved alumnus and faithful supporter of SHC who died in 2004. Building upon its success last year, chapter members donated more than $2,500 this year. On Feb. 10 Mary ’75 and Mike Reedy welcomed more than 65 alumni, parents and friends to their home for a Mardi Gras-themed party co-hosted by Maureen Guzy ’71, Ellen ’94 and Doug Dolan, Mary Beth ’87 and Jim ’79 Dunn, and Lynn ’77 and Raoul ’77 Robichaux.

Mimi McGinn ’07, Ali Mullin ’07 and Kristie Murphy ’07 are welcomed into the alumni association at the Senior Class Crawfish Boil.

SENIOR CLASS CRAWFISH BOIL The Office of Alumni Programs hosted a crawfish boil on April 10 to serve as its official welcome to the National Alumni Association for the soon-to-be graduates. Despite a rainy evening, more than 60 members of the class of 2007 turned out to eat boiled crawfish with all the fixings and enjoyed live music entertainment at Stewartfield. Congratulations seniors!

Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

ALUMNI NEWS UPCOMING EVENTS MEMPHIS CRAWFISH BOIL

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS FOOTBALL VIEWING PARTY

Sunday, May 20, 2007, 3 p.m. At the home of Paul Chandler ’91 $15 per person

Sunday, September 16, 2007 Time and location TBA

BATON ROUGE STUDENT SEND-OFF RECEPTION Thursday, July 19, 2007, 6 p.m. At the home of David ’83 and Denise ’85 Hatcher

CHICAGO CUBS BASEBALL GATHERING Saturday, July 21, 2007 Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Chicago Cubs 10:05 a.m. – Brunch at the Wrigley Field Stadium Club 12:05 p.m. – Game time $75 per person $65 for alumni in Classes of 2002-2007 * Limited number of tickets available

ATLANTA BRAVES BASEBALL GATHERING Saturday, Aug. 18, 2007 Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Atlanta Braves 5:05 p.m. – Pre-game gathering – Turner Field City Scape Patio 7:05 p.m. – Game time $40 per person * Limited number of tickets available

12TH ANNUAL CHICAGO SCHOLARSHIP GOLF CLASSIC AND AUCTION Saturday, Aug. 25, 2007 Bloomingdale Golf Club 10 a.m. – Registration 10:30 a.m. – Tee times begin 5:30 p.m. – Dinner and Auction

ST. LOUIS CARDINALS BASEBALL GATHERING Saturday, Sept. 15, 2007 Chicago Cubs vs. St. Louis Cardinals 2:25 p.m. – Pre-game gathering in the Cardinal’s Golden Glove, Room 207 2:55 p.m. – Game time $100 per person * Limited number of tickets available

DALLAS ALUMNI PARTY Saturday, Sept. 15, 2007, time TBA Home of Andrew Minigutti ’90 28

13TH ANNUAL ZOGHBY-DEVANEY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP GOLF TOURNAMENT Sunday, Sept. 23, 2007 11 a.m. – Mass at St. Joseph Chapel 12 p.m. – Registration and lunch 1 p.m. – Shotgun start 5:30 p.m. – Dinner Spring Hill College Golf Course To register or find out more about these events, visit www.shc.edu/alumni-and-friends/alumnievents

ALUMNI SERVICES BADGER PRIDE PERSONALIZED MAILING LABELS Show your love of SHC and send it sailing through the U.S. mail. Now, you can order SHC Badger personalized mailing labels with your name and address. Choose from two styles.

BANK OF AMERICA CREDIT CARD Spring Hill College is proud to offer the Platinum Plus credit card, a MasterCard credit card program that provides peerless benefits, service, worldwide acceptance, and convenience. Issued by Bank of America, the nation’s leading issuer of affinity credit cards, this program offers our Spring Hill College members a low introductory Annual Percentage Rate. Platinum Plus customers may also take advantage of numerous superior benefits. The Spring Hill College credit card proudly displays our name. Call the exclusive Spring Hill line toll free at 1-800-932-2775 for more information and to apply today. The priority code is FABBZQ. For more information on these and other alumni services, visit www.shc.edu/alumni-andfriends/services.

Spring Hill College • Spring 2007

CONGRATULATIONS!

PHOTOS BY SETH LAUBINGER

CLASS OF 2007

A rendering of the restored Administration Building by The Architects Group shows that the building will be named the Rev. Gregory F. Lucey, S.J. Administration Center. The project, which is scheduled for completion in January 2009, includes a thorough restoration of the building and replacement of the cupola.

READ THE FULL STORY ON PAGE 14

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