SPRING HILL THE SPRING HILL COLLEGE MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2015
That which you love
That which you do well
That which the world needs
That for which you can be paid
Discerning Vocation and Living Life with Purpose
FROM THE CHANCELLOR
Dear Alumni and Friends, In this, my last letter as president of the College, although by the time you read this I will be in my new role as chancellor, I want to share my deep sense of gratitude for where we find ourselves as an institution completing 185 years of living the mission of Jesuit and Catholic education on this Hill. I am grateful for the success we have had in righting the ship through the dedication of the senior leadership of the College under the guidance of John Barter over the last 18 months. I am particularly grateful for the leadership and generosity of alumni that has enabled us to reduce and refinance the indebtedness of the College. I am grateful that we are in a positon to address critical needs of the College that have been too long delayed. I am grateful for the exceptional students who graduated this year and for the record number and quality of the students who will join us in the fall. I am grateful for the service of the board, faculty and staff of the College who have faithfully stayed the course in maintaining the quality of the College, while faced with the serious impact of the economic downturn. I am very grateful to Dr. Christopher Puto for accepting the presidency at this time. I could not leave the College in better hands. Chris, a 1964 Spring Hill graduate, brings an incredibly successful career in business and academics. He also knows the College from the perspective of a trustee, having served on the board from 2002 to 2011.
I invite you to take note of the significant “passing of the torch” that we are experiencing in this period of the history of the College. We are seeing not only the presidency of the College passing from a Jesuit to an alumnus, but we have seen over this period of time a much stronger leadership role on the part of alumni members of the Board of Trustees than in the past. Just as significant is the leadership of lay colleagues in the administration, and among the faculty and staff, than we knew a longer time ago. Spring Hill College still reflects the work of the Society of Jesus, but it is “Jesuit” in a new way. I invite each of you to participate even more actively in this work of the Society of Jesus as partners of the Church under Pope Francis. As we go forward with renewed hope in the future of the College, we need to continue to face the issues that challenge higher education and Spring Hill College at this time. Over the next years, we need to support our new president in the development and implementation of a strategic plan for addressing those challenges, so that together we can build on the successes we have known and ensure an ever more effective living out of the Jesuit and Catholic mission of our College. Sincerely,
Rev. Gregory F. Lucey, S.J., Chancellor
IN THIS ISSUE
THE SPRING HILL COLLEGE MAGAZINE 7
Summer 2015
NEWS FROM THE HILL
Welcome, Dr. Puto
Dr. Christopher P. Puto leads Spring Hill College as the 37th president. From left: Jim McKinney ‘69, commencement speaker and honorary degree recipient, and John ‘68 and Mary Lou ‘70 Barter, recipients of the Fons Sapientiae Award.
FEATURES 20 Discerning Vocation Dr. Christopher Dodsworth explores the topic of vocation and living a life that matters.
24 Full Circle
Commencement 2015
See photos and the list of honorees from graduation.
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BADGER NEWS
Spring and fall sports complete first NCAA seasons, sand volleyball added.
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ALUMNI NEWS
Jim McKinney ‘69 and John ‘68 and Mary Lou ‘70 Barter use their vocations to give back to the College.
Homecoming on The Hill 2015 28 Chapter Updates 32 Class Notes 36 In Memoriam 37 Giving
VIEW FROM THE HILL
SPRING HILL
BADGERS BEING SOCIAL
THE SPRING HILL COLLEGE MAGAZINE Summer 2015
Editor: Lindsay Hughes, MLA ’08
Art Director: Sharla Brink ’95
Photography: Richard Dollison Seth Laubinger ‘02 Laura McNeill Matt Rainey Lyle Ratliff
Contributing Writers:
On Dr. John Switzer’s outdoor class:
Christopher Dodsworth, Ph.D. Hallet Dunn Laura McNeill Jim Stennett
Peggy Martin Baine – As if they needed another reason to enjoy Dr. Switzer’s theology class!!
On commencement: Jennifer Coheley Pizzotti – Best wishes SHC class of 2015! Love the Avenue of the Oaks in May! #alumni #classof99
President: Dr. Christopher P. Puto
Derek Ryder – Congrats graduates...do your best to remember this day...it was a special one for me and hope it will be a special one for each and every one of you! Go Badgers!
Vice President for Advancement: Fred Salancy
On retiring faculty: Renee Fontana Garrot – So happy for Dr. Kaffer and Rev. Williams. I loved the experience of being your student! Tony French – Congrats Dr. Cyphert, I remember playing piano in the practice rooms and disturbing your work a few times. Sorry about that!
The Office of Communications and Institutional Marketing annually publishes two printed issues of The Spring Hill College Magazine.
Robin Spring Westbrook – Best professor I ever had. Congrats Dr. Dean...
Comments should be addressed to: Lindsay Hughes, Editor Spring Hill College Magazine, 4000 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36608-1791 (251) 380-2289 or (877) SPR-HILL lhughes@shc.edu
Amy Lunceford Driskell – Love Dr. Kaffer! Thanks for being a great teacher and role model!
Seth Laubinger ‘02
To update your address or mailing preferences, contact Advancement Services at (251) 380-2284.
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Summer 2015
News from THE HILL
Lyle Ratliff
Spring Hill College welcomes Dr. Christopher P. Puto as 37th president The Spring Hill College Board of Trustees announced in February the election of Dr. Christopher P. Puto as the 37th president of Spring Hill College. Puto began his post officially on June 1, and he will be formally inaugurated Sept. 15. He succeeds the Rev. Gregory F. Lucey, S.J., who is continuing to serve the College as chancellor focusing on mission and identity. Chairman of the Board Michael Coghlan said, “Spring Hill College is fortunate to have such an outstanding academic administrator lead us into the future. Dr. Puto has superb credentials as a business professional, educator and academic dean of two highly regarded business schools. Furthermore, as
a Spring Hill alumnus, he exemplifies the mission of the College to form leaders in service to others.” He went on to say, “The Board is deeply grateful for the work that has been accomplished through Fr. Lucey’s leadership and look forward to working with him in his new role with the College.” Puto graduated from Spring Hill College in 1964 with a degree in economics. He earned an MBA in marketing from the University of Miami and a Ph.D. in business administration with a concentration in marketing from Duke University. He served Spring Hill College as a member of the Board of Trustees from 2003 to 2012.
www.shc.edu
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Seth Laubinger ‘02
Lyle Ratliff
NEWS FROM THE HILL
I naugur a l C elebr at ion Dr. Christopher P. Puto Thirty-Seventh President of Spring Hill College
Sept. 16 – Inaugural Mass St. Joseph Chapel Sept. 17 – Inauguration and Installation Ceremony Arthur R. Outlaw Recreation Center The winter 2015 edition of The Spring Hill College Magazine will feature full inauguration coverage and an in-depth profile of our new president.
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Spring Hill College Magazine
“Dr. Puto brings to the presidency rich experience both as an academic and as a veteran administrator in Jesuit and Catholic higher education,” Lucey said. “Equally important, as a former trustee, he brings depth of knowledge of the issues that face the College today and as a committed alum he brings profound love and devotion to the challenges before us. He is the right person for the College at this time.” From 2002 to 2014 Puto served as the dean and the Opus Distinguished Chair in the Opus College of Business at the University of St. Thomas, a Catholic, liberal arts college in St. Paul, Minn. Among his accomplishments at St. Thomas, Puto designed and introduced the university’s first full-time M.B.A. program and first full-time M.S. in Accountancy program, as well as redesigned the flagship evening M.B.A. program. Prior to his tenure at St. Thomas, Puto served as professor of marketing and dean of The McDonough School of Business at Georgetown University, the country’s oldest Catholic and Jesuit university, located in Washington, D.C. In 1998 he introduced a new M.B.A. program curriculum and initiated a curriculum redesign for the undergraduate business program. In addition, he created a comprehensive strategic planning process for the school and raised $80 million in the first three years of a $150 million capital campaign. “Saying that I am deeply honored to serve as Spring Hill’s 37th president is indeed an understatement,” Puto said. “Throughout my career I have always treasured the liberal arts education I received by the Jesuits and truly feel that it has prepared me to serve in this capacity. I look forward to working with my fellow alumni and the student and College leadership at Spring Hill to make it among the best of the 28 Jesuit colleges and universities in the country.” Puto has also served as associate dean and director of the MBA program, director of doctoral studies in marketing, and professor of marketing and psychology at the University of Arizona, a public research university in Tucson. His teaching experience includes serving on the faculty at the University of Michigan and Appalachian State University. In addition to his accomplishments in academia, Puto has a wide range of industry and consulting experience. Clients have included Bank of America, Eastman Kodak Company, and General Electric Company. Puto started his career as allied sales manager at Burger King Corporation, where he contributed to developing the strategic foundations for the “Have It Your Way” advertising campaign. He has also written numerous academic journal articles and book chapters and presented at peer-reviewed professional conferences. He received the 2002 Sheth Foundation Award for co-authoring the Journal of Consumer Research article having the most long-term impact on the discipline. This inaugural award covered the first 29 years of the Journal’s history.
Summer 2015
Matt Rainey
SPRING HILL COLLEGE TO OFFER DEGREE PROGRAM IN HEALTH SCIENCE IN FALL 2015
Responding to the needs of the health care industry, Spring Hill College will offer a Bachelor of Science in Health Science (BSHS) beginning fall 2015. Spring Hill faculty and administration have designed the program to prepare students for master and doctorate entry-level health careers that have different prerequisites than the traditional pre-med degree. The interdisciplinary focus of the BSHS will give students necessary background to successfully meet the requirements needed for application to audiology, clinical laboratory science, cytology, genetic counseling, orthoptics, physician assistant, physical therapy, prosthetic and orthotics, law school, and public health graduate programs. A minor in health sciences will prepare students wishing to apply to health administration, athletic training, public health, medical illustration, occupational therapy, and nutrition graduate programs. “Students planning a future in these health science careers need not only a major that is a good fit for the post-baccalaureate degree admission requirements but also a program that provides a
sense of community during their undergraduate years,� said Dr. Debbie Fox, associate professor of biology who will direct the new program. In addition to the core requirements required of all SHC graduates, the BSHS program consists of prerequisite courses applicable to the careers listed above and includes coursework from areas including biology, chemistry, physics, nutrition, psychology, sociology, ethics, and anthropology; along with specific electives chosen by students in consultation with their student advisor. Spring Hill College will continue to offer the Bachelor of Science in biology with a pre-health concentration for students intending to apply to professional school programs such as medical, dental, optometry and pharmacy. Capitalizing on its highly successful biology program, the College plans to add a degree program in health care management in fall 2016. For more information on the Bachelor of Science in Health Science, contact Dr. Debbie Fox at dfox@ shc.edu or the Office of Admissions at (800) 7426704 or admit@shc.edu.
www.shc.edu
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NEWS FROM THE HILL | Commencement
Commencement
2015
Photography by Seth Laubinger ‘02
Hats Off to Our Grads
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Spring Hill College Magazine
Summer 2015
see commencement coverage and photos at www.shc.edu/commencement www.flickr.com/photos/springhillcollege
A round of APPLAUSE FONS SAPIENTIAE AWARD
The highest honor for service bestowed by the College John ’68 and Mary Lou ’70 Barter Rev. Gregory F. Lucey, S.J.
HONORARY DOCTOR OF HUMANE LETTERS James D. McKinney ’69
IGNATIAN AWARDS
Fulfill the ideals of Jesuit education for scholarship, leadership and service – highest student awards bestowed by the College. Madeleine M. LaForge Matthew H. Keller
TOOLEN AWARD
Highest grade point average Madeleine M. LaForge Nicholas D. Smith
EDWARD B. MOODY, S.J., TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARD Excellence in teaching
Dr. Leigh Ann Litwiller Berte, Associate Professor of English
DAWSON RESEARCH AWARD Excellence in scholarship
Robert C. Harding II, Associate Professor of Political Science
WILLIAM J. REWAK, S.J. SERVICE AWARD Jesuit ideal of service
Dr. Samantha Church, Associate Vice President for Advancement
SENIOR CLASS ORATOR
Elected by senior class to give farewell address Alyssa N. Fontela
www.shc.edu
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Seth Laubinger ‘02
NEWS FROM THE HILL
Spring Hill recognizes emeriti faculty & retiring staff
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Spring Hill College Magazine
Dr. Michael Kaffer ’61, Professor Emeritus of English 53 years of service One year after graduating from Spring Hill in 1961, Kaffer embarked on his teaching career as an instructor in the English department. In 1966 he took a three-year hiatus to complete a master’s degree in English from Louisiana State University – Shreveport, and returned to Spring Hill in 1969. He went on to earn a Ph.D. in education administration from the University of Alabama in 1985. Kaffer was named Professor Emeritus at commencement, and the College honored him at Homecoming on the Hill by dedicating a classroom in the Lucey Administration Center in his name. “I am clearly extremely grateful to having a classroom dedicated to me,” he said. “I only wish that the picture didn’t look like me – old.” Kaffer did the calculations and found that he has been at the College 29.6 percent of its 185 years. “I guess that’s why my picture looks so old,” he conceded. A Teacher of the Year honoree and six-time winner of the Fagot Award, Kaffer is credited with creating the first adult education program on campus and served as the program’s first dean. He was faculty moderator of the Student Government Association for 10 years and was faculty advisor for both The Springhillian and The Motley. He has also participated in Spring Hill College’s Upward Bound program and served as co-director of the college theater. Kaffer served eight terms as chair of the college/faculty assembly, and 21 years as a freshman seminar advisor. He has devoted 17 years as chair of the English program, and 15 years as chair of the Division of Languages and Literature. He was also named the Altmayer Endowed Chair in Literature. “It fills me with joy to have had all these indications of a great many faculty, staff, and students appreciate my 53 years of service,” Kaffer said. At a reception honoring this year’s retirees, he quipped that he has been at Spring Hill so long, he should write a companion piece to Dr. Charles Boyle’s book, “Twice Remembered: Moments in the History of Spring Hill College.” Kaffer’s book would be titled, “Best Forgotten.” Having worked since he was 13, Kaffer said he looks forward to retirement with a little trepidation. With few concrete plans for post-retirement life, he intends to continue teaching as an adjunct faculty member and to visit his colleagues for coffee and lunch. He added, “Most of all I will miss the students – they are they ones who make what I do worthwhile.” Summer 2015
Rev. Michael Williams, S.J., Professor Emeritus of English, 29 years of service Born and raised in Philadelphia, Williams entered the Maryland Province of the Society of Jesus in 1962. He graduated from Fordham University in 1968 with specializations in classics, philosophy and English. He received a full doctoral fellowship from the University of Southern California and received a Ph.D. in English in 1975. He also studied at the Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley and was ordained in 1975. After ordination, Williams served as assistant dean, and later associate dean, of the College of Arts and Sciences at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Wash. He remained at Gonzaga until 1986, when he joined the English faculty at Spring Hill College. In addition to teaching, Williams is very involved in student organizations. He serves as the faculty advisor to the Jesuit honor society Alpha Sigma Nu, Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity, and the Knights of Columbus. He is also the Jesuit resident chaplain in Toolen Hall. “It is indeed exciting to be a part of Jesuit higher education, and to try to make a difference in the lives of our students, not only in the classroom, but, more importantly, I think, outside the classroom,” he said. “Living in the residence halls has been a special part of my Jesuit ministry, as well as my involvement in a fraternity, allowing me to come to know students in a very special way.” Other than giving up his tenured position and taking on the title of Professor Emeritus, Williams said his life will not change much after retirement. He will remain a part of Spring Hill’s Jesuit community, teaching one or two courses each semester and continuing his work with Alpha Sigma Nu and Lambda Chi Alpha. “As a graduation speaker reminded our students: ‘You may leave Spring Hill, but Spring Hill will never leave you,’” he said. Last year the students asked Williams to speak at The Last Lecture,” a lecture series sponsored by Alpha Sigma Nu that asks professors what wisdom and life lessons would they share with the world if they knew this was their last opportunity. “This made me more aware of how God has shaped my life, as He indeed ‘writes straight with crooked lines,’” Williams said of his candid talk. “Our lives take many zigs and zags, but we all end up where God wants us to be.” Watch Williams’ Last Lecture, “From Cheesesteaks to Cheese Grits: A Jesuit’s Journey,” at: http://bit.ly/1KAdB9W.
cheers! to our dedicated staff members Norma Dixon
Secretary, Registrar’s Office 34 years of service
Mac Horton
Director of Administrative Information Services 25 years of service
Darlene McMahon
Secretary, Center for Academic Support and Advising 15 years of service
Mary Helen Rhodes
Secretary, Albert S. Foley, S.J. Community Service Center 10 years of service
www.shc.edu
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NEWS FROM THE HILL
Dr. Daniel Cyphert, Professor Emeritus of Mathematics 27 years of service Originally from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Cyphert received an M.S. and Ph.D. in applied mathematics from Vanderbilt University. After teaching at Armstrong State College in Savannah, Ga., and Willamette University in Salem, Ore., he joined the mathematics department at Spring Hill College in 1988. “At the time, I knew nothing about the meaning of ‘Jesuit’ education or much of anything about Spring Hill College,” he said. “Over a 27-year career, I'd like to think I've learned a little bit about the school and the Jesuit philosophy of education, and I hope in the end my contributions to the college live up to the ideals embodied here.” During his tenure, Cyphert served as chair of the Department of Mathematics from 1991 to 2001. Among his numerous accomplishments, he received a Teagle Summer Research Grant in 2003 and a Teagle Summer Curriculum Development Grant in 2004. “I've met such wonderful and dedicated faculty, staff and students over the years, and the memories from my time here will surely last a lifetime,” he said. “As one of my students recently wrote me, ‘I believe the Math Department held their students to a higher standard, but helped them achieve those goals set before them.’ Pretty good description of a worthwhile career!”
Dr. David Dean, Professor Emeritus of Biology 20 years of service Dean graduated from the University of Tennessee with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and a Ph.D. in comparative and experimental medicine. He joined the biology faculty at Spring Hill College in 1994. When Dean and his colleague Dr. Maureen Beanan were hired, Dr. Pat Macnamara ’60 was chair of the biology department. “Pat was a great teacher, and an even better person,” Dean said. “I remember commenting to Maureen that she and I had it made – all we had to do to be successful is watch Pat and do everything the way he did. My greatest regret is not having the opportunity to work alongside Pat for a longer period of time, and my greatest hope is that he would be proud of the job that I did.” Since then Dean has twice been selected as the Edward B. Moody, S.J. Teacher of the Year and twice received the Dawson Service Award. He has taught and mentored countless biology and pre-health students through the years, and many have credited his teaching for their being well prepared for professional programs. For the past several years he has also worked with coaches and student-athletes as the college’s faculty athletics representative, a role that he considers a highlight of his professional activities. At the end of May, Dean moved to Tucson, Ariz., for a change of scenery, climate, topography and volunteer opportunities. He will be working with three groups: Sky Island Alliance, a conservation organization that works to protect and restore the native species and habitats of the region; the Department of Natural Resources at the University of Arizona, a research group that monitors the population of mountain lions and bobcats in the area; and the Tucson Samaritans, who provide humanitarian aid to undocumented migrants crossing the Arizona desert.
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BADGER News
Senior Megan Haber of Lillian, Ala., (left) and junior Mallory Raulerson (8) of Mobile formed the No. 1 pair on the debut SHC sand volleyball team.
SANDY BADGERS LAUNCH INAUGURAL SHC SAND VOLLEYBALL SEASON A new team joined the Badger athletic family this spring as the “Sandy Badgers” sand volleyball squad took to the court at the Tulane University Pelican Classic on March 13 in Kenner, La. The women competed in four tournaments and fought to a 4-13 final record while facing some of the top sand volleyball programs in the nation. Along with the new sport comes a new athletic facility on Spring Hill’s campus. Situated at the south end of Library Field, the Jim and Betty Walsh Sand Court Facility will be the home of the Sandy Badgers. Named in honor of SHC basketball star and Athletics Hall of Fame member Jim Walsh and his wife, Betty, the courts were made possible by a generous donation from the Walsh Family.
The Jim and Betty Walsh Sand Court Facility will be home of the Sandy Badgers.
By Jim Stennett
BADGER NEWS
The softball team celebrated Senior Day on Apr. 4. Seniors (l-r) are Shea Blanchard (10); Elise deBruler (5); Taylor Webre (17); Lea Kittrell (16).
Fall and spring sports have success in first NCAA seasons
SOFTBALL
Despite not being eligible for NCAA postseason tournaments or individual awards during the two-year transition from the NAIA to NCAA Division II, the Badger fall and spring semester athletic teams enjoyed a successful first year in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC).
The softball team continued the success of the past two seasons by rolling to a 36-7 record with an 18-0 mark in the SIAC. Freshman second baseman Carmen Byrd of Mt. Vernon, Ala., led the Badgers in hitting with a .430 batting average (64-for-149) from the leadoff position, including two doubles and seven triples with 25 RBIs en route to earning a spot as a Top 10 Finalist for the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) Freshman of the Year Award. Senior shortstop Shea Blanchard of Breaux Bridge, La., closed her career owning numerous Badger records including career marks in games played and games started (211), at-bats (674), doubles (48) and home runs (19). She also finished with the second most career runs scored (135) and total hits (207) in SHC history. Junior pitcher Caroline Sagrera of Baton Rouge, La., built a 26-6 record with a 1.39 earned run average and led NCAA Division II in the regular season with 350 strikeouts.
Photography by Seth Laubinger ‘02
GOLF The men’s golf team won four team titles at nine tournaments including two SIAC-hosted events at Lemoyne-Owen College in Tunica, Miss., and Morehouse College in Douglasville, Ga. The ladies competed in eight events and finished 7th of eight teams at the 2015 Gulf South Conference Championship held in Tunica, Miss.
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see complete athletic coverage at www.shc.badgers.com
BASEBALL Head coach Frank Sims celebrated his 30th season at the reins of the Badger baseball team with a perfect 16-0 record in the SIAC and a 26-14 overall record. Boasting one of the most potent offensive attacks in SHC baseball history, the Badgers had four starters finish the year with better than .400 batting averages led by senior right fielder Taylor Eads of Slidell, La., who built an astounding .538 (70-for-130) average with 16 doubles and eight home runs. Junior catcher Alex Jones of Pensacola, Fla., led the team with 58 RBIs while hitting .429 (60for-140) with 19 doubles and four home runs. On the mound, senior Jack Howard from Decatur, Ga., held a 7-1 record with two saves and 40 strikeouts over 57 innings pitched.
Senior right fielder Taylor Eads of Slidell, La., built an astounding .538 (70-for-130) average with 16 doubles and eight home runs.
Senior Jack Howard of Decatur, Ga., built a 7-1 record as a starter with two saves in relief.
TRACK & FIELD In their third season of competition, the men’s and women’s track and field teams showed steady improvement with the men winning their first meet title with a 1st place finish at the Mississippi College Choctaw Open in Clinton, Miss., on April 18, and the women finishing in 2nd place at the same event. The Badgers set numerous team records in 2015 highlighted by freshman Gabby Hantak of St. Louis, Mo., running the 800-meter dash in 2:22.09 and the 3,000-meter steeplechase in 12:12.40 and freshman Jack Taylor of Tampa, Fla., throwing the discus 137’ 11” (42.03 meters) and the shot put 47’ 6.25” (14.48 meters). Freshman Gabby Hantak of St. Louis, Mo., and freshman Jack Taylor of Tampa, Fla.
www.shc.edu
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BADGER NEWS
From left: junior guard Jarrett Calhoun of Linden, N.J.; sophomore center Sam Hutcheson of Hoover, Ala.; senior guard Elissa VandeWaa of Spanish Fort, Ala.; sophomore center Leah Washington from Houma, La.
BASKETBALL The men’s basketball team completed a 10-18 season with a 9-10 mark in conference play under second-year head coach Aaron Niven. The Badgers made a three-game improvement over the previous season’s record and won three of their final five games. Junior guard Jarrett Calhoun of Linden, N.J., led the Badgers in scoring with 233 total points; and sophomore center Sam Hutcheson of Hoover, Ala., pulled down 132 rebounds.
The women’s team earned their first winning season in 10 years with a 14-12 overall record and an 11-7 result in the SIAC including winning five of their final seven games. Senior guard Elissa VandeWaa of Spanish Fort, Ala., scored 216 points to pace the SHC offense while sophomore center Leah Washington from Houma, La., recorded 174 rebounds.
TENNIS Men’s tennis finished second in the SIAC regular season with a 10-2 record in the conference and a 12-9 outcome overall. Sophomore Martin Jaramillo of Manizales, Columbia, built a 13-5 record in singles play including an 11-1 outcome in conference matches. Freshmen Lars Bajohr from Versmold, Germany, and Nick Cruz of Foley, Ala., finished the year 10-7 as a doubles team with an 8-1 SIAC mark. For the women’s team, the Badgers ended with an 8-13 record and a 6-7 SIAC score.
Freshman Lars Bajohr from Versmold, Germany.
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Above top: freshman Nick Cruz of Foley, Ala.; above bottom: sophomore Martin Jaramillo of Manizales, Columbia.
see complete athletic coverage at www.shc.badgers.com
Wieczorek named head coach of men’s soccer
Patrick joins Badger staff as Assistant Athletic Director
Steve Wieczorek joins the SHC athletics staff as men’s soccer head coach after a seven-year career as an assistant coach at the NCAA Division I level with Oregon State University, Duquesne University and Siena College. At Duquesne in 2013, the Dukes advanced to the Atlantic 10 Championship Quarterfinals while posting their best overall record since 2009 and their best conference record since 2006. Wieczorek served as Siena’s top assistant as the Saints enjoyed the best stretch of success in school history. A 2004 graduate of Fairfield University, Wieczorek was a four-year letterman at goalkeeper for the Stags and led the team to four Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) Tournament appearances and two MAAC finals. Following graduation, he began his collegiate coaching career that fall at his alma mater as the goalkeepers coach.
Michael Patrick joined the SHC Athletic Department as assistant athletic director for external affairs. He is responsible for athletic advancement, as well as facility and game day operations. Patrick comes to Spring Hill from the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) where he served as the conference liaison with the eight member schools and managed the operations of all championship-related activities, as well as developing and implementing corporate sponsor partnerships. Patrick has been involved with Athletics Administration for more than 30 years as a player, coach, instructor, journalist, executive and assistant director. Before his tenure with the SAA, he served as the director of men’s soccer operations for Oglethorpe University from 2009-2013 and as a National Team Scout for the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) from 2008-2010.
www.shc.edu
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live a life worthy of the which you have received
calling
Ephesians 4:1-3
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Discerning Vocation and Living Life with Purpose By Christopher Dodsworth, Ph.D.
In fall 2014, Spring Hill College joined NetVUE, the Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education, a consortium of more than 100 colleges and universities working towards helping undergraduates engage in vocational discernment, a topic that Spring Hill College has selected as the focus of its Quality Enhancement Plan. Interestingly, this group, despite its scholarship, program development, and the myriad efforts of its member institutions, has no official definition of vocation, although all agree that vocation is much more expansive than simply “career.” The word itself derives from the Latin vocare, “to call or summon,” and in its original use, of course, it is God who does the calling, particularly to vowed religious life. Martin Luther, the great theologian of vocation, was the first to use the word to refer to ways of living beyond professed religious life. He saw God as calling every person to some kind of work – whether it be as spouse, farmer, laborer, teacher – that would promote God’s kingdom. Sometimes, God works directly in the world, as in miraculous healings, but more often, Luther noted, God chooses to work through people. Thus, God heals us through the work of nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals. In the Catholic tradition, Vatican II speaks of the “apostolate of the laity,” recognizing that every person is called to share in the priestly, prophetical and kingly office of Christ. Each of us, that is – not just women and men religious – is called to be an apostle in his or her own way. The Council specifically recognized that for many of us, this call consists in our work in everyday life, through which we make the world better.
www.shc.edu
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"Vocational discernment, like spiritual discernment, is not a box to be checked off; it continues throughout a person’s life." – Dr. Christopher Dodsworth
Of course, this conception of vocation, powerful though it may be, isn’t very helpful for non-believers or for those outside the Abrahamic faiths. And even for Christians, vocation, so understood, needs to be supplemented with a theology of vocation to make the idea more clear. Often cited is a quote from the theologian Frederick Buechner: vocation is “the place where our deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.” In a similar vein, the writer Steven Garber, in his book “Visions of Vocation: Common Grace for the Common Good,” repeatedly asks, “knowing what I know about the way the world is, what am I going to do?” Both of these aphoristic expressions capture the idea that a person’s vocation is a response to the world that is fundamentally rooted in the person herself. To use some technical philosophical jargon, vocation is a way of living her life that leads to her own flourishing as well as to the flourishing of the world. This last formulation has two key components: the idea that vocation is a way of life, and that it leads to flourishing – both for oneself and others. To flesh out the idea of vocation further, let me highlight a few of its essential characteristics. To begin, vocation is closely tied to purpose. In life, there are many goals, personal and professional, for which we strive, but our vocations give our lives an overarching purpose, something that organizes the entirety of our lives and so, one might say, gives our lives meaning. Another way of putting this point is to say that a person’s vocation plays an important role in how she conceives of herself – that is, in her very identity. Vocations do so in part because they are a response to (transcendent) value. Many things are worth
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pursuing, to a greater or lesser extent, but not all of these are vocation-worthy. Part of the process of vocational discernment involves finding those values around which a person can center her life and so lead a life which truly matters to her. As Buechner, Garber, and countless others have realized, vocation is not a solipsistic affair. A person’s vocation is not simply about her and does not spring out of her own idiosyncratic desires and interests. Indeed, it can’t, if it is truly to lead to her own flourishing. “No man is an island,” John Donne observed. We are fundamentally social creatures, connected to one another, and so vocation involves responsibility to others. What kind of responsibility? The New York Times columnist David Brooks recently described vocation as a life that is responsive to what is needed in the context in which a person lives. This does not mean, of course, that a person’s vocation is always to be found in his immediate neighborhood. It’s a question rather of how our gifts, talents and interests match up to the ways in which we are connected to the world. If vocation is not an individual undertaking, neither is vocational discernment. For those of us steeped in the Jesuit tradition, this point is obvious: St. Ignatius wrote his Spiritual Exercises as a sort of guidebook so that spiritual directors could help others through the discernment process. More generally, vocational discernment happens best in community, when we can listen to others – and have others listen to us. Finally, it’s important to realize that vocational discernment, like spiritual discernment, is not a box to be checked off; it continues throughout a person’s life.
Here at Spring Hill, we thrive on helping our students do just that. As any Badger knows, the hallmark of the Hill is community. From the commonalities of everyday life in the dorms, classrooms, and the Caf, to campus ministry, studying abroad at the Italy Center, the international service/immersion trips, Greek life, and athletics – to name a few – Badgers bond. We listen to each other’s stories, and in doing so all of us – students, but also staff and faculty – learn not just about each other but about ourselves. We travel together, continually writing our own stories and discovering our strengths and passions and sharing our gifts within this small community we call the Hill. As a faculty member, I’m so proud to watch our students carry these experiences with them after they graduate and share their knowledge and talents with the broader global community as teachers, business leaders, nurses, athletic trainers, JVC volunteers: whatever it is they are called to do. Dr. Christopher Dodsworth, associate professor and department chair of philosophy, is leading Spring Hill College’s Quality Enhancement Plan, the topic of which is vocational discernment.
Where do Career Development, Student Affairs, and vocational discernment intersect? That which you love
That which you do well
That which the world needs
That for which you can be paid
Vocation
“The role of Career Development in the discernment process is to guide students and alumni thorough exploratory and reflection processes, beyond academics into the world of work. Typically, we have discussions about where one experiences meaningful engagement to their community, finds flow in academic, work, and leisure tasks, and engaging rather than frustrating challenges. We really want each individual to recognize where they are most creative and attentive and head in that direction, whether it be medicine, teaching, art, athletics, or business." – Jeremy Moore, Director of Career Development “The role of Student Affairs is very important as we expand campus-wide conversations around vocational discernment. Our team researches, develops and implements programs and services designed to support the mission of the College while creating a culture of encounter. We want students to encounter a variety of experiences that allow them to explore what they are good at, what they are passionate about, what the world needs, and find a way to get paid for it. It's the unification of those concepts that allows our students to graduate feeling a sense of purpose and place in the world.” – Rosalie Carpenter, Vice President of Student Affairs
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Full Circle:
Alumni use their vocations to support the College
By Lindsay Hughes, MLA ’08 Photography by Seth Laubinger ‘02
John ‘68 and Mary Lou ‘70 Barter received the Fons Sapientiae Award, the highest honor for service bestowed by the College.
One’s vocation might take him no further than his own neighborhood, or it might send him to the other side of the world. In the case of three Spring Hill College alumni, their vocations led them back to the Hill. At a time when the College needed their support most, Jim McKinney ’69 and John ’68 and Mary Lou ’70 Barter used their business acumen and philanthropic strategy to get the College’s financial situation back on track. McKinney is the product of years of Jesuit education, having attended a Jesuit high school, Jesuit college, and Jesuit graduate school. After graduating from Spring Hill with a degree in business, he earned an M.B.A. from Loyola University Chicago. “I think that whole Jesuit identity you pick up is something that lives with you for the rest of your life – in a good way. It keeps you between the lines,” McKinney said. “You are forever burdened with knowing right from wrong. And it’s not just about what’s legal or illegal or what you can get away with. It’s about what is fair and just.” In 1974 McKinney joined William Blair & Company, a Chicago-based investment firm. He still works for the company, now a senior advisor who oversees the development and marketing of fixed-income securities.
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McKinney brought his extensive experience in investments and finance to his role as chairman of Spring Hill’s Board of Trustees from 2010 to 2014. He led the charge in securing the financing to fund the transformation of the campus. Perhaps most important, as head of the campaign steering committee, McKinney developed a strategy to secure philanthropic support for the College. “When I was chairman, I was just overwhelmed with the people who came out of the woodwork to help whenever I asked,” McKinney said. “To have them respond the way they did – it was one of the most heartening experiences of my life. It says a lot about the College. People did it because, like me, they love this place.” Indeed, a love for Spring Hill College brought John Barter, with the unwavering support of his wife, Mary Lou, back to campus. From November 2013 to May 2015, Barter served the College, pro bono, as chief operating officer, making the weekly trip to Mobile from their home in Charleston, S.C. “When they asked Father Lucey, who was 80 years young at the time, to come back as president, he said, ‘I need a partner,’” Barter recalled. “We’ve known each other for a long time, and we are very dear friends. It was easy to say, ‘I’ll be your partner and come back and help out.’”
The Barters’ affinity for the College dates back to their days as students on The Hill, where the couple met and later wed. He graduated from Spring Hill with a degree in physics in 1968, she with a degree in education in 1970. They married in St. Joseph Chapel in 1969. Following an M.B.A. at Tulane University, Barter had a successful career in corporate finance predominately with Allied Signal, now known as Honeywell. He retired as president of Allied Signal Automotive in December 1997. Barter served on the College’s Board of Trustees from 1988 to 2002, including four years as chairman of the board. Mary Lou Barter has served on the board since 2004, and during her 11-year tenure she has held many key leadership positions. The Barters have supported Spring Hill College through numerous gifts toward institutional priorities. Echoing McKinney’s gratitude to the College, the Barters said they are most thankful for the Jesuit, Catholic values instilled in them. “It’s one thing to believe in solidarity, to believe in justice, to believe in loving your fellow man, but it’s how those deeply imprinted values manifest themselves that’s most important,” Barter said. The relevance of a Spring Hill College education is part of what prompted Barter to return to his alma mater in a leadership role. “Spring Hill has never been more important in its 185 years than it is today. I think the world is losing sight of values, and value-centric places like Spring Hill are absolutely critical,” he said. “We have to have places like this flourish and become even more impactful in the world. That was the motivation to come back.” Mary Lou Barter acknowledged that her husband’s absence was sometimes challenging, but said the sacrifices their family made were worth it. “It was difficult at this point in our lives to live apart from each other for much of the time, but we both felt the cause was so great,” she said. “Neither of us wanted to see Spring Hill continue to struggle. With Father Lucey coming back, we were reinvigorated and wanted to help in any way we could. So, we did.” While McKinney and the Barters have given back to the College in monumental capacities, they agree that every gift of vocation, time and treasure is needed and appreciated. “There are many ways to give back, not just monetarily,” Mary Lou Barter said. “There’s mentoring students, helping provide connections to jobs and internships before and after graduation. Those are every bit as important as monetary gifts.” McKinney said as a young alumnus with a family, he “didn’t have two nickels to rub together.” But, like the Barters, he stayed connected to the College, attended alumni events, and gave small and consistent donations. “I understand the importance of that now,” he said. McKinney encourages alumni to spread the word about their Spring Hill experience, help recruit the next generation of Badgers, identify potential donors, and get involved in their local alumni chapters. “If you raise your hand, someone can give you something meaningful to do,” he said. “It’s all about staying connected.”
Jim McKinney ‘69 received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters and delivered the commencement address, and Rev. Gregory F. Lucey, S.J., was a recipient of the Fons Sapientiae Award. www.shc.edu
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Photography by Richard Dollison
see more photos at www.facebook.com/SHCNationalAlums
www.shc.edu
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ALUMNI NEWS | Chapter Updates
DALLAS ALUMNI SERVICE DAY
At their service day Feb. 7, Dallas Badgers worked with a local artist to create mosaic columns in a playground facility at SPARK, an organization that provides a fully immersive learning environment for at-risk children. Pictured above left: Julia Lauve Parker, Matt Parker ’07, and Ty Hathorn ’07. Above right: Joe Ackels ’11 and Hannah Mulvey ’12.
ST. LOUIS MARDI GRAS PARTY AND SCHOLARSHIP FUNDRAISER Alumni and parents in St. Louis raised money for the Daniel C. Aubuchon scholarship at a festive fundraiser and Mardi Gras party on Feb. 7, at the home of Valerie ‘99 and Jim Hoffmann. The Badgers raised over $5,000 for a local student to attend Spring Hill. Pictured left, back row: Valerie Hoffmann ’99, Maura Guzy ‘04, Kathryn Horan ’11, Heather Backes ’04 and Molly Winget ’04; front row: Brendan Lane ‘02, Paul Banks ‘02, and J.D. Sabio ’12.
CHICAGO MARDI GRAS PARTY AND SCHOLARSHIP FUNDRAISER
What’s better than beads, beer, and Badgers? Combining all three to raise money for the Chicago Alumni Scholarship! Alumni and friends gathered Feb. 10 for an exclusive Spring Hill College event at Revolution Brewery, where they raised over $5,000 for their local scholarship. Pictured above left: Barry Hue ’90, Steve Kocian, ’94, Mike Gamauf ’92, Rob Dunkel ’94, Peggy Cussen ’89, Colleen O’Brien ’89, Monique Sato ’99 and Paul Cussen ‘89. Above right: Margaret Lameka, Denise Amraen, Susan Hayes, and Yvonne Biszewski, mothers of class of 2016 Badgers Patrick, Pete, Trent and Bryanna.
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see more photos at www.facebook.com/SHCNationalAlums
MOBILE ALUMNI SERVICE DAY
Mobile alumni and their families volunteered at five service sites around town for their Alumni Service Day on Feb. 28. Penelope’s Closet, St. Mary’s Home, ASPCA, Bay Area Food Bank, and Prodisee Pantry hosted more than 100 benevolent Badgers. Pictured above left: Ashley Tuite ’12 and FeLicia Britton, mother of Cree Pettaway ’16. Above right: Matt Lursen ’03 and Cory Bronenkamp ’11.
CRAWFISH BOILS Springtime means the advent of crawfish season for SHC grads! Badgers in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Birmingham and Memphis celebrated accordingly. Picutred below left: Dr. Patrick Hall ‘01 and future Badger John Patrick in Baton Rouge. Below right: Harry ’00, Emily ‘98, Maura, Seamus and Kiernan Hardin in New Orleans.
upcoming events SAVE THE DATE! Homecoming on The Hill April 8-10, 2016 Fall and winter chapter events are being planned now, so be on the lookout for chances to reconnect in your city!
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ALUMNI NEWS | Alumni Awards
outstanding
Alumni
Spring Hill College honored Patrick Rice ‘63, Dr. David C. Trigg ‘71, and Davanne Piccini O’Sullivan ‘11 during Homecoming on the Hill in April.
Patrick J. Rice ’63 Gautrelet Award – Named in honor of Rev. Francis Gautrelet, S.J., the first Jesuit president of Spring Hill College, the award was established in 1972 and recognizes an individual of high integrity who has demonstrated outstanding professional achievement.
After his Spring Hill career, Rice earned a Master of Laws in 1966 from the University of Georgia School of Law. He practiced law throughout his professional life with the Hull Barrett law firm in Augusta, Ga. He has served as a trial lawyer since 1966, representing clients in the appellate, state and federal trial courts. Rice has received several awards for his dedication, commitment and long-term passion for the law. Awards include the Association of Catholic
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Lawyers’ St. Thomas More Award, the Augusta Bar Association’s Robert Lynn Allgood Award, the State Bar of Georgia’s Chief Justice Thomas O. Marshall Professionalism Award, Best Lawyers’ Lawyer of the Year – Augusta, and many more. Rice is a member of multiple professional and civic organizations. He has consistently demonstrated the highest integrity in all aspects of his career and it is recognized throughout his community.
nominate notable alumni at www.shc.edu/alumni/awards
Dr. David C. Trigg ’71 Ignatian Award – Established in 1992 by Rev. William J. Rewak, S.J., the award is presented to an alumnus or alumna in recognition of community service in keeping with the ideals set forth by St. Ignatius Loyola. After graduating from Spring Hill, Trigg went to medical school at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine and followed by his residency in Family Medicine at the University of Texas Medical Center in Galveston. Soon after, he joined the Indian Health Service, practicing medicine on the Cherokee Indian Reservation on the Qualla Boundary in North Carolina. In 1984 he was recruited to develop Western Carolina University’s Emergency Medical Care Program, the first Baccalaureate Emergency Medical Care program in the United States. He has served as the medical director for the past 28 years for this program, as well as teaching within the program. He continues to serve the community by volunteering at a free clinic in Sylva, N.C. He is a member of Physicians for a National Health Program, which draws attention to health inequalities and advocates for healthcare reform in America.
Does someone you know deserve an award? Please help us recognize him or her! Spring Hill College presents honors annually to outstanding alumni who, through various acts and achievements, have shown their commitment to SHC and their communities. We encourage you to take a few minutes to nominate outstanding individuals who deserve recognition in these areas. The deadline for application is Aug. 23, 2015. Nominee____________________________________ Date Submitted______________________________ Class Year (if known)__________________________ Address_____________________________________ City/State/Zip________________________________ Email_______________________________________ For the following award_______________________ Reasons for Nomination ______________________ ____________________________________________
Davanne Piccini O’Sullivan ’11 Karopczyc Award – Named in remembrance of Lt. Stephen E. Karopczyc, class of 1965, a Medal of Honor recipient killed during service in the Vietnam War, the award acknowledges a young alumnus or alumna for outstanding service to the College or community. O’Sullivan joined the Jesuit Volunteer Corps after graduation, spending her year of volunteering in South Dakota at the St. Francis Mission. The Mission is committed to ending the systematic dysfunction present on the reservation of American Indians, specifically the Lakota. Dedicating herself to the Corps, she taught Catholicism and tended to the needs of the Lakota. Following her year of volunteering, she was hired by the St. Francis Mission to fundraise and continue to support the Mission.
____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ Submitted by: _______________________________ Address:____________________________________ City/State/Zip________________________________ Email_______________________________________ Fill out the online nomination form at: www.shc.edu/alumni/awards Or, mail this completed form to: Office of Alumni Programs 4000 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 36608 In either case, please include a nomination letter and supporting documentation (if applicable). Questions? Email alumni@shc.edu or call the Alumni Office at (877) SPR-HILL.
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ALUMNI NEWS | Class Notes
1950s
John R. Kirwan ‘53 has written and published a book on his life about collecting autographed baseballs throughout the 1930s through the 1970s. Titled “A Pittsburg Gentleman,” the book documents how life was in those decades through the national pastime of baseball, and even mentions John’s experiences at Spring Hill College. Andrew Clarke ’59 is a writer and editor in Milwaukee, Wis. He has created his own website comprising original poetry, stories and greeting cards.
1960s
J.B. Egan III ’61 was honored with the prestigious Alma Lee Loy Community Service Award in January. The accolade recognizes a citizen of Indian River County who distinguishes himself professionally though excellence and privately though commitment to the Indian River County community at large. Dr. Stafford Betty ’64 is a professor of religious studies at California State University, Bakersfield. He has published several works and currently writes a blog for The Huffington Post and White Crow Books in the hopes of sharing his expertise of the afterlife with non-specialists. Paul Fox ’67 was recently selected as publicity chairman of the South Alabama Chapter Executive Council for the Military Officers Association of
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America. He continues to offer his professional services as a philanthropy consultant for the Development Fundraising Campaign for St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. Ed McMahon ’69 gave a TED talk in Jacksonville, Fla., addressing the economic, social, and psychological benefits of preserving community uniqueness.
1970s
Ed Laurente ‘78 and wife Annette are proud to announce their twin sons’ recent college graduations. Nicholas graduated from the University of Scranton with a degree in exercise science, and Zachary graduated from Kutztown University with a degree in mathematics.
1980s
Jo Ann Jenkins ’80 was named chief executive officer of AARP, a nonpartisan membership organization dedicated to social change and helping people age 50 and over to improve the quality of their lives. Prior to her appointment as CEO in January, she was president of the AARP Foundation, where she led the charity’s development and social impact initiatives from 2010 to 2014. Frank Castillo ’81 is a senior safety consultant for East Coast Risk Management’s offices located in Raleigh and Chapel Hill, N.C. Last year, he helped start a nonprofit called
Summer 2015
Asociacion Cubana Americana Martiana of North Carolina to promote Cuban culture in Raleigh, as well as assist Cuban refugees who continue to arrive and settle within the community. He was recently elected as Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus Council #9880, St. Raphael’s Church. His son, Javier, achieved the rank of Eagle Scout last year, an activity they have both been involved in for more than 11 years. Gary Cowles ‘85 was honored by Christ the King Catholic School in Daphne, Ala., as its Distinguished Graduate during Catholic Schools Week in January. Jack Duncan ’89 recently began representing Florida Hospital Care Advantage for Health First Health Plans in Highlands and Hardee Counties in Florida. He has a new home in Lakeland, Fla.
1990s
Robert Mackey ’91 was named to Barron’s 2015 “America’s Top 1,200 Advisors: State-By-State” list. This national recognition is an honor in the banking and finance industry and an acknowledgement of Robert’s many accomplishments. David ‘96 and Lindsey ‘00 Weems of Mobile announce the birth of their fourth son and future SHC short stop, John Oliver Weems, born April 7, 2015.
send us your news and photos at alumni@shc.edu
Brian Lauten ’97, partner of Dallas-based trial firm Dean & Lyons, LLP, was named to D Magazine’s 2015 list of the best lawyers in Dallas. Joyelle Reed ’97 and Victor Swade Wilson welcomed AnnaKarlee Emily Wilson into the world on July 30, 2014. Jonathan Dick ’98 and Shelley McLendon were married March 7, 2015, in St. Joseph Chapel. Marie Forsdick Smith ‘98 and her husband, John Henry Smith, welcomed baby number five in July 2014. Francis Michael is adored by his parents and siblings: Jack, 12; Becker, 10; Maggie, 7; and Gus, 4. Marie and her family live in Nashville, Tenn., where she is a personal trainer with InnerStrength Sports and Fitness. Delvin Seawright ’99 successfully defended his dissertation in March and received his Ph.D. in accounting from Morgan State University. He has accepted an accounting faculty position with Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas, and will begin his new career as an accounting scholar and professor in fall 2015.
2000s
Caroline Couvillon ’00 joined North America Agency Marketing at Facebook in New York City in June 2014.
Badgers take on Branson > Members of the class of 1955 got together for their annual reunion trip to Branson, Mo. Pictured, back row, from left: Leo MacDonald, Bob Schell, Sheila Kelly, Pat Williamson, Dick Williamson, Jay Guillory, John Sardisco, Pat Halpin and Bob Halpin; front row: Roberta Guillory, Tony Sardisco and Susan MacDonald.
Badgers in Bangor > Patrick Geary ‘70 and Mark Brink ‘13 met for the first time in Bangor, Ireland at an international conference dedicated to Saint Columbanus. In spite of the decades that separate these two Spring Hill alumni they have followed similar paths: Patrick supplemented his Spring Hill education with a year studying medieval history and philosophy at the Catholic University of Louvain in Belgium. Mark interrupted his studies on the Hill to spend six months at Queens University Belfast in the Irish American Scholars Program. Today Patrick is professor of medieval history at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton. Mark is pursuing graduate studies at Queens and is preparing himself for a similar career. As the photo taken in a Bangor pub shows, Mark and Patrick also share an appreciation of other cultural activities in addition to medieval history.
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ALUMNI NEWS | Class Notes
Michelle Krulewicz Dees ’00 is the COO of Homeless Coalition of Mobile, where her work embodies the Spring Hill College mission and focuses on issues of social justice. Adam ’03 and Lisa Gandolfi ’03 Werling welcomed their son Arik Johannes Werling on Oct. 15, 2014. Lisa is an archivist at the National WWII Museum, and Adam is property manager at Mercier Realty & Investment Company in New Orleans. Gregory Bel ’04 was named a partner at Piedra & Associates, P.A. in Coral Gables, Fla. Chris Corey ’05 and his brother, Brian, were featured on the cover of Coral Gables Community Magazine’s MayJune 2015 issue, and they
will be on the cover of Doral Magazine in July. The magazines highlight the pair’s impressive small business, Corey Consulting. Georgi Morales Pipkin ’05 received her master’s degree from Georgetown University. Shortly thereafter, she began working at Macy’s corporate office in Miami, where she lives with her husband, Maurice Pipkin, and their 1-year-old son, Riley. Eugene Ramirez ’05 joined WFLA-TV News Channel 8, a Tampa, Fla. area broadcast television and media company, as a morning show anchor. Caitlin Smith ’05 and Henry Sockbeson were married May 25, 2014, in New Orleans. They
were surrounded by fellow Badgers from around the country. Christine Wallace ’06 was honored as a Teacher of the Year at the 2015 Atlanta Archbishop’s Banquet for Catholic Education on Jan. 31, 2015. Megan Brooks ’07 and Brian Comer were married March 29, 2014, at Ashland Place United Methodist in Mobile. Melinda Baker ’08 and Andrew McCall ’10 were married Jan. 1, 2015, at Stewartfield in Mobile. Nolan James ’08 and wife Allison welcomed their son, Nolan Terrel Wilson James III, on Dec. 1, 2014, in Akron, Ohio.
Trustee Donal Godfrey, S.J.; Jordan Byrne; and trustee Tom Byrne Jr. ’82 hear Pope Francis’s New Year’s message, “Peace is always possible,” in St. Peter’s Square.
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send us your news and photos at alumni@shc.edu
Michael Bouche ’09 is an account manager with Alford, Woods and Child (AWC) Engineering, Inc.
2010s
Allison Giles ’10 and Antonio “Tony” Mattera ’10 were married April 18, 2015, in St. Louis.
Stephanie Cochran ’11 and Aaron Roote were married Jan. 10, 2015, in St. Joseph Chapel. Robert Farrell ’11 recently received an assistantship to the University of Southern Mississippi. He will be studying and working toward his master’s degree in American history. Katelyn Foster ’11 is the academic records specialist at the University of South Alabama. Kirstie Skinner ’11 and Trent Walters were married April 11, 2015, in St. Joseph Chapel. Andrea Stadther ’11 and Walt Delaney were married Dec. 20, 2014, in St. Joseph Chapel. Brittany Winfree Stuber ’11 recently joined the Spring Hill College Office for Advancement as a senior major gift officer. Kevin Curca-Reilly ’12 was hired as an analyst at Goldman Sachs in December 2014.
Michael Latady ’12 is serving as an Education Peace Corps Volunteer in Ethiopia, where he recently helped organize the second annual Peace Corps Action for Gender Equality Summit. Michael is the programming coordinator for the Peace Corps Ethiopia chapter of the Gender and Development Committee. John “J.D.” Sabio ’12 was hired as a technical specialist at Edward Jones in St. Louis, Mo. Emily Stewart ‘12 and Patrick Aucoin ‘09 were married April 11, 2015, at St. Philip Catholic Church in Vacherie, La. They were joined by officiant Rev. R.V. Baylon, S.J., their families, and a clan of Badgers young and old. Ashley Brooks ’13 and John Martin were married Dec. 13, 2014, in St. Joseph Chapel. Carolina Dominguez ’13 is a member of the Jesuit Volunteer Corps where she serves as a computer reading instructor and after-school program coordinator at St. Martin de Porres School in Belize City.
Amy Lyons ’14 and Matthew Burke ’14 were married May 30, 2015, in St. Joseph Chapel.
John Stack ’65 and his wife, Rosemary, of Dallas, Texas, participated in Homecoming on the Hill and were winners of a newly published “Louisiana Cooking By Native American Choctaw-Apache,” a self-published cookbook by longtime SHC supporters Dorsey Ebarb (tribe elder) and Howard Bronson (former board member). Descendants of the tribe share a collection of family recipes and memories preserving their American Indian culture. A portion of the proceeds from the cookbook sales will benefit the Louisiana State recognized Choctaw-Apache Tribe of Ebarb, La. The book can be ordered at: http://choctawapachecookbook.com.
we want to hear from you! Please let us know what you’re up to. Email your news and photos to alumni@shc.edu or submit your Class Note online at www.shc.edu/alumni.
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ALUMNI NEWS | In Memoriam
In Memoriam Joe A. Bailey ‘34 Rev. A Gerald Fineran, S.J. ‘43 Herndon “Wank” Inge Jr. ‘43 William Edward Barker III ‘48 Rev. Frank J. MacEntee, S.J. ‘48 Charles Fred Oberkirch ‘49 Rev. Ernest C. Ferlita, S.J. ‘50 Dr. Thomas J. Lynch ‘50 Jeremiah “Jerry” John Sullivan ‘51 Robert L. Fedor ‘52 Lorenz “Larry” Neuhoff ‘52 Albert E. Reynolds, Jr. ‘52 Vincent R. Gorham, Jr. ‘54 Dr. Raymond A. Alvarez ‘55 Rev. Francis Ferrier, S.J. ‘55 Robert Colbert ‘56
Thomas Patrick Langan IV ‘56 Dr. Philip J. Levine ‘56 Robert Emmett McDonald Jr. ‘56 Helen Muscat Robinson ‘56 Frank Barnes Fulton ‘57 Dr. Dudley Joseph Terrell Sr. ‘57 Rev. Andrew P. Whitman, S.J. ‘57 Fred Lee Caver Jr. ‘60 Rev. Louis J. Lambert, S.J. ‘60 Robert A. Phillips Sr. ‘60 John Fredrick Clover ‘62 Dr. Arthur Joseph McGowan Jr. ‘62 Arthur Bruce Dudley Jr. ‘63 Susan M. Smith ‘63 Louis Anthony Mezrano ‘64 Thomas William Conrad ‘65
Dr. Marygrace McAuley Robinson ‘65 James P. Ryan ‘65 Lawrence Murphy Kleuser ‘69 Donald “Don” R. Vehlhaber Jr. ‘69 Dr. R. Kirk Suttell ‘70 Lewis M. Harkey ‘71 Stephen W. Mudd ‘71 Stephen Jay Flynn ‘74 Stephen W. Arling ‘88 Anthony Charles McElroy ‘01 William Brad Saint ‘10
DR. STEWART “STU” DOUGLAS LANGDON, PROFESSOR EMERITUS Dr. Stewart “Stu” Douglas Langdon, who taught management in Spring Hill College’s Division of Business for 14 years, passed away at age 77 on April 14, 2015. Langdon served with distinction in the U.S. Navy from 1960 to 1986, attaining the rank of Captain. He was designated a Naval Aviator in 1962 and graduated from the Naval Test Pilot School in 1966. Following several flight test program assignments he went on to serve in numerous aviation-related command assignments, including Commander, Carrier Air Wing Five aboard the USS Midway and Chief of Staff, Commanding Officer NAS Whidbey Island, Commander Naval Air Forces Pacific. His decorations include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, and Navy Commendation Medal. Langdon was an associate professor in management at Spring Hill College and retired with Professor Emeritus status in 2007. He was chair of the Division of Business from 2001 to 2003. He was awarded the Rev. H. J. Fagot, S.J. Service Award in 1999 and was selected Teacher of the Year for 2002-2003. He received a B.S. in aeronautical engineering from Auburn University in 1960; an M.B.A. from Duke University in 1972; and a Ph.D. in management from Auburn University in 1992. Langdon was passionate about his greyhounds, Dimples, Phoebe and Mollie, and loved the Auburn Tigers football team. He was an active member of Christ United Methodist Church. He is survived by the love of his life of 37 years, Peggy Ann Davis Langdon.
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GIVING
Give Day honors Fr. Lucey’s 82nd birthday
#luceys82 I survived a shipwreck
Rev. Gregory F. Lucey, S.J., celebrated his 82nd birthday Jan. 21, 2015. In honor of his last birthday as president, Spring Hill College hosted a one-day giving campaign, which raised $3,187.20. The celebration included birthday cake and “selfies” with the president in the cafeteria, and alumni and donors were encouraged to share their love for Lucey via social media using the hashtag #luceys82.
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GIVING
Spring Hill College launches first National Give Day Senior seminar project helps raise $66K for student scholarships
Erinn Vogel ‘15, left, and Megan St. Germain ‘15 show their Badger spirit in front of St. Joseph Chapel.
Megan St. Germain ’15 and Erinn Vogel ’15 understand the importance of fundraising. Both communication arts majors, St. Germain of Baton Rouge, La., and Vogel of Milwaukee, Wis., have worked in Spring Hill’s Advancement Office, getting to know the ins and outs of the College’s development, alumni relations, and communications and marketing initiatives. In collaboration with the Advancement Office, they helped to implement the first National Give Day held on March 19, the Feast of St. Joseph, the patron saint of Spring Hill College. The efforts of this dynamic duo yielded $66,143.08 from 248 gifts from alumni, friends, parents, faculty, staff, students and administrators in a 24-hour period. Funds will be used to provide student support and scholarships. “Erinn and I knew we wanted to help create a new Spring Hill tradition to leave behind as we graduate,” St. Germain said. “Spring Hill gives you so much more than an education, and starting a Give Day for Spring Hill gives an opportunity for future Badgers to enjoy the full Spring Hill experience.”
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The students created buzz for the one-day giving challenge through the power of social media. St. Germain and Vogel started a Facebook page for the National Give Day and posted videos that featured students from cities with a strong alumni presence. Those students challenged alumni from their hometowns to participate in the event, with the support of the cities’ alumni chapter presidents. Posts and videos were shared, friends were tagged, and the entire Spring Hill virtual community came together to give back to the College. “The success of the first National Give Day solidified my idea of the Spring Hill community – strong, united and proud,” St. Germain said. “We could not be more thankful for every single donor on March 19 for coming together to raise over $66,000 for the institution we have called home for the past four years.” To make a gift to Spring Hill College, call 877-SPR-HILL or visit www.shc.edu/giving.
enjoy The view from The Hill The perfect location for your next event. Spring Hill’s campus rests on a 400-acre site, is naturally landscaped, and features huge oaks, azalea-lined walkways and an 18-hole golf course. Several buildings are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Spring Hill College offers a variety of venues that can accommodate meetings, dinners, receptions and conferences year-round with overnight accommodations available during the summer.
Find out more about how Spring Hill College can help make your special event very special indeed. TO SCHEDULE YOUR NEXT EVENT OR FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT SHARON WILLIAMS AT SWILLIAMS@SHC.EDU.
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Spring Hill College
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graduate programs in theology and ministry
Announcing new Blended-Format for our MTS, MPS, and MA Programs www.shc.edu/graduatetheology theology@shc.edu • 877-857-6742