2016–2017 Issue 1
Art & Design at USF
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Bigger Thinking— Rooted in the Liberal Arts
Why did I choose to write about this in my
column? First of all, it’s an important, “mission-critical” part of who we are. As importantly and more directly, I wanted to assure you that the liberal arts
Dear Members of the USF Family,
are alive and well, and thriving at USF. Indeed, this issue of Engaging Mind & Spirit provides ample
Welcome to the latest issue of Engaging Mind &
evidence of that. While this issue focuses on art
Spirit—our University of St. Francis magazine and one
and design at the university, those of you who have
way that we strive to remain connected to you:
been on campus in the past few years know that
our alumni, our friends, our parents, our employees,
we also have hundreds of students and community
and our supporters…in short, our USF family.
members engaged in our musical (vocal and instru-
mental) ensembles, as well as in other performing
Our mission statement begins with “As a Catholic
University rooted in the liberal arts,” so we are “up front” about the fact that we aspire to educate
arts productions (plays and musicals). I promise we’ll feature all this in an upcoming issue!
the whole student. That means we educate them with
not only the depth of knowledge necessary in
and enjoy this latest update about what’s happening
their major fields of study but also the breadth of
at your USF. And, as always, please know that I
knowledge that will prepare them to live a full
continue to consider myself incredibly blessed to
and fulfilling life. Indeed, one description of a liberally-
serve as your president and promise to work
educated individual (admittedly, shared at a
hard to earn the trust that you have placed in me.
So, pour yourself a cup of coffee, sit back,
conference of liberal arts college administrators) is
Arvid C. Johnson, Ph.D. President University of St. Francis
that s/he is interesting to speak with at a cocktail party even after they’ve turned 40!
At USF, our General Education or “GenEd”
curriculum seeks to ensure that every student receives a well-rounded education—one that includes literacy, literary inquiry and aesthetic awareness, numerical understanding and scientific inquiry, historical understanding, social awareness, philosophical inquiry, and religious foundations. These studies will prepare our students to be responsible, contributing members of society both today and into the unknown and unpredictable future. Indeed—and with the benefit of “wisdom” that I didn’t have when I was in college— I speak often with our students about how incredibly fortunate they are to study at a school that encourages (insists!) that they sometimes leave their comfort zone and explore the full range…the full beauty…of human knowledge and our world. Through that exploration, we hope they come to more fully understand not only themselves but also our God. I also use these conversations as a chance to encourage students to “pick up a minor (or two)” in a field (or two) outside their major!
Peace and all good things,
IN TH IS IS S U E
Engaging Mind & Spirit is published three times each academic year. Feedback is welcomed and can be sent to Julie Futterer ’93, Director of Marketing Services: 815-740-3826 or jfutterer@stfrancis.edu Content Michael “Chester” Alamo-Costello Michael Austin Julie Futterer Michelle Madura Katie Smith Other USF employees, students & friends Imagery Bersano Photography Cherry Hill Studios Michael “Chester” Alamo-Costello Julie Futterer Other USF employees, students & friends
11 FEATUR E STO RY
Art & Design at the University of St. Francis 2 USF N EWS
4
3 CAL EN DAR O F E V E NTS 8 CO L L EG E O F ARTS & SCIE NCE S 9 CO L L EG E O F BUSINE SS &
16
HEALTH ADM IN I STRATION
Design Adam Middleton Printing & Distribution Courier Graphics / CEREUS—Phoenix Please help us in our efforts to reduce waste. If this is an incorrect address for the intended recipient, if you no longer wish to receive this publication or want to receive it electronically, contact Amanda Quinn, Director of the Annual Fund, at 815-740-4271 or aquinn@ stfrancis.edu to update your records.
10 CO L L EG E O F ED U CATION 11 L EACH CO L L EG E OF NU RSING 12 THE FIG HTIN G SAINTS 13 FAITH, M IS SIO N & DIV E RSIT Y 14 IN TER N ATIO N AL PROGRAMS 15 G IVIN G BACK 16 S TAYIN G CO N N ECTE D
ON THE COVER Instructor Paul Hopkin works with a ceramic student completing her general education requirement in Aesthetic Awareness.
Our Mission As a Catholic university rooted in the liberal arts, we are a welcoming community of learners challenged by Franciscan values and charism, engaged in a continuous pursuit of knowledge, faith, wisdom, and justice, and ever mindful of a tradition that emphasizes reverence for creation,
University of St. Francis 500 Wilcox Street, Joliet, Illinois 60435 800-735-7500 / stfrancis.edu
compassion, and peace-making. We strive for academic excellence in all programs, preparing women and men to contribute to the world through service and leadership.
A Year of Compassion / 2016–2017
1
USF N EWS
USF Accrues New Rankings
The University of St. Francis has accrued several impressive new rankings by organizations who monitor and rate higher education institutions. From academic programs to test scores to campus safety, University of St. Francis continues to float high on the scale for excellence and reliability among other private, Catholic colleges.
“The University of St. Francis is pleased that its commitment to student success—whether
in terms of retention and graduation rates or in terms of in-field job placement—continues to be recognized in national rankings such as these,” commented USF President, Arvid Johnson. “Preparing students to contribute to the world through service and leadership is not only essential to our mission but also a critical part of our value proposition.”
Niche.com ranked nearly 1,000
USF has received attention for its
School by Victory Media since
carries a lot of weight. It recog-
colleges with enrollments of
outstanding job placement rates,
2011. The Military Friendly
nizes the high caliber students
less than 5,000 full-time students
often correlated to excellent test
distinction is only earned by the
that choose St. Francis, it also
gave selected schools a “best
scores on required assessment and
top 15% of colleges, universities
recognizes how satisfied students
small colleges” distinction. USF
licensure exams in certain career
and trade schools that are doing
are in choosing the university
placed sixth of the 25 schools
fields. The 2015 Leach College of
the most to embrace America’s
and the successful outcomes our
chosen. Factors such as accep-
Nursing class achieved a 97% pass
military service members, veterans
students enjoy through gradua-
tance rate, quality of professors,
rate on their National Council
and spouses as students and
tion,” notes Chuck Beutel,
student debt, alumni earnings,
Licensure Exam (NCLEX). In
ensure their success on campus.
Vice President for Admission and
student surveys, diversity and
addition, the 2015–16 College of
campus quality were considered.
Education graduating classes
In its 2016 Student Success
Enrollment Services.
earned a 100% first-time pass rate
Ratings, national research firm
For the fifth year in a row, USF
USF is listed as the fourth safest
on the state mandated Ed-TPA
Eduventures named the University
has been honored as a 2016–17
school in Illinois of the 25 schools
performance assessment, which
of St. Francis among the top
Catholic College of Distinction
selected from 1,600 colleges and
measures a novice teacher’s ability
20 National Private Masters
by collegesofdistinction.com.
universities. Campus crime rates,
to positively impact student
institutions in the U.S. Eduventures
Colleges of Distinction
local crime analysis and student
learning. Most recently, the 2016
analyzed more than 1,100
are honored for providing
opinion were among the factors
Physician Assistant class in
institutions based in the United
an innovative,
considered.
Albuquerque, N.M. received a 100%
States and compared a predicted
engaging
pass rate on the P.A. National
retention rate based on academics,
experience to
University of St. Francis’s commit-
Certification Exam (PANCE). P.A.
affordability and social factors
students that
ment in making our campus
graduates saw a 100% job
with reported retention rates.
prepares them
a safe and secure place to study,
placement rate.
Findings were categorized into
for successful
research/doctoral, masters, and
careers, active
“This ranking speaks to the
live and work, with our proactive efforts in safeguarding the
USF was ranked #29 for Best
baccalaureate in both public and
citizenship
well-being of our entire university
Colleges for Veterans in the
private sectors.
and lifelong
community,” states Joe Kripp,
Midwest by U.S. News & World
learning.
director of USF’s Safety, Security &
Report. The university has also
respected national, independent,
Transportation Department.
been deemed a Military Friendly
higher education research firm
“This ranking by a highly
FOR A FULL LIST OF PAST AND PRESENT RANKINGS, PLEASE VISIT STFRANCIS.EDU/NATIONALLY-RANKED.
2
Engaging Mind & Spirit Magazine
September 2016
SUM M ER IN T H E C I T Y F O R G O L D E N A PP L E S CH O L A R S
2
Alumni: 3rd Annual Saints Twilight 5K Invitational
5
USF Art Gallery: Jennifer Cronin “Spectacularly Ordinary” Opens (through Oct. 21)
8
Online Information Session for Adult Degree Completion & Graduate Students
9
Leach College of Nursing “Blessing of the Hands” Ceremony
24
Alumni Network Meetings
24–25 Homecoming/Reunion Weekend 2016 and Football Game vs. Robert Morris University
Six USF teacher candidates worked to prepare for their future in the
October 2016
Estefani Gonzalez, Mallory Johnson, Esmeralda Melero, Cristal Munguia,
2
Music at Moser: Senior Recital—Claire Halbur, Soprano
3–7
Feast of St. Francis Week at USF
6
USF Art Gallery: Artist Lecture with Jennifer Cronin
Music at Moser: Faculty Recital—Jiafeng Yan, Classical Piano
7
USF’s Annual Day of Giving—stfrancis.edu/dayofgiving
Alumni: Family Mass
10
Bernie Campus Visit Day
14
Alumni: Student Alumni Mentoring (SAM) Inaugural Dinner
15
Make & Take Education Alumni Professional Development Day, Sponsored by REAL
18
Alumni: Chicagoland Brewery Crawl
26
Open House for Transfer, Degree Completion & Graduate Students
28
Music at Moser: Javier Calderon
29
Freshman and Transfer Nursing Campus Visit Day
31
USF Art Gallery: Tytia Habing “This Is Boy” Opens (through Dec. 2)
Kaitlyn Utsch, Irma Sandoval Vizcaino and Ashley Vollmer participated at various stages of the specialized program, which provided as many as 700 more hours of observation and pre-service student teaching than traditionally prepared teachers receive.
The Golden Apple Scholars program is unique to the state of Illinois.
It attracts high school seniors and first- and second-year college students who possess the drive and skill to become excellent teachers in high-need schools. In addition to the summer institutes, the Golden Apple Scholars program provides tuition funding, job placement assistance, and mentoring from Golden Apple Award-winning teachers. The Golden Apple Scholars program is a perfect complement to USF’s curriculum and enhances the personal level of attention received at USF with a statewide network of passionate educators.
“We know that teacher candidates will be more successful if they draw
upon a wide variety of resources, engage with expanded circles of colleagues, and learn from experienced mentors,” explains Tracy Spesia, Field Experience Coordinator and School Partnership Liaison for the College of Education. “The Golden Apple is a strong complement to the network that USF provides, and we are delighted to connect candidates to these additional supports.”
GRA N D O PEN IN G O F G UA RD I A N A N G E L H ALL
USF celebrated the grand opening of Guardian Angel Hall on August 17 with more than 200 people in attendance. The ribbon-cutters, from left to right: Candice Rosen, USF trustee; Arvid Johnson, USF president; Larry Walsh, Will County Executive; Sr. Dolores Zemont, OSF, president of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate; Jessica Farrell, LCON student; Natalie Manley, state representative, John Leach; Jane Leach Winger; Susan Leach; Steven Winger; Debra Bacharz, LCON faculty member; Bob O’Dekirk, mayor of Joliet; Sr. Joyce Shanabarger, OSF, general community leader of the Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart; and Art Scheuber, USF Board of Trustees vice chairperson.
C ALE N DA R O F E V E N TS
classroom through the Golden Apple Scholars Summer Institute.
November 2016 2
Alumni: Disciplinary Literacy—“Creating Natural and Authentic Engagement in the Disciplines” (EAN)
4
Music at Moser: Junior Recital—Chloe Miller, Viola
5
Alumni Network Meetings
6
Freshman Campus Visit Day
9
USF Art Gallery: Artist Lecture with Tytia Habing
10
Alumni: “Understanding Your Health Care Options” Panel Discussion (BAN)
10–12 Music at Moser: Fall Play “The Butler Did It” 12
Distinguished Alumni Brunch & Awards Ceremony
25th Annual English Language and Literatures Conference
13
Music at Moser: Senior Recital—Kaleigh Jerkatis, Piano
15
Transfer Registration
National Philanthropy Day
18
Music at Moser: Vocal Jazz Ensemble featuring the USF Swingin’ Saints
22
Music at Moser: Student Recital I
December 2016 1
Music at Moser: Student Recital II
3
Alumni: Breakfast with Santa
3–4
Music at Moser: 12th Annual Holiday Concert with Joliet Symphony Orchestra at USF
4
Alumni: Christmas Caroling Service Day
9–10
Music at Moser: Christmas at the Motherhouse: 25 Years of Choral Music
16
Leach College of Nursing Honors and Pinning Ceremony
26
Illinois High School Art Competition & Exhibition Opens (through Jan. 21)
For more detailed information or to confirm any changes that may occur with these scheduled events, visit stfrancis.edu/usf-calendar.
From modest to masterpiece: ART & DESIGN at the University of St. Francis
4
Engaging Mind & Spirit Magazine
The University of St. Francis has some secrets. Tales have been told through the years about haunted tunnels, hidden elevators, and other mysterious spaces that have long captivated curious students and employees alike.
With all that said, how many alumni readers can remember trekking to the
4th floor of Tower Hall and peering up the dark, narrow stairway leading up to the bell tower, shuddering and wondering, “What’s up there?” If you were enrolled in Karen Kietzman’s ceramics courses in the early- to mid-90s, you would have known. For others, perhaps sheer bravery answered your inquiry.
T
he creative and fine arts have long been a general education
history and theory, and advanced photography practices. Multi-level
foundation for the university and its College of Arts &
studio courses in drawing, painting, typography, and studio practice are
Sciences. Art classes have been taught since the university’s
offered each semester. Class sizes currently range from 8–15 students
inception, with a formal program first established in 1930.
in studio courses to roughly 25 students in lecture classes. Recent facility
Classes at that time focused on art history and traditional studio courses,
improvements have also led to a professionally-outfitted woodshop,
such as painting and drawing. In the subsequent years, attention was
which sees use for almost every studio art course, as well as upgraded
given to developing a curriculum that was current with contemporary art
ceramics equipment for in-house recycling and reformulation of
practice and current design trends. Painting and drawing classes
clay bodies.
were taught in a studio on the third floor. In the 1980s, ceramics and
pottery courses were introduced and the bell tower became home
changes in approaches to art practice, theory and new technology.
to that quiet ceramics studio.
One of the areas that appears to be in need of regular updating is the
focus upon the web,” Alamo-Costello said. “Our students now create
Between 1999 and 2009, the university realized it needed to raise the
“The curriculum is continually assessed and updated with evolving
bar. Department faculty began to focus on developing a curriculum,
online portfolios and produce a thesis in tangent on specific research.
and with support of administrators, began building art facilities to stay
These items have been central in creating a platform for ours students in
competitive with other institutions and to attract new students. The
their transition to professional life. All recent graduates have used these
department added roughly 30 new courses, and in 2007, administrators
items to locate internships, jobs or post-graduate studies.”
began the process to move the program to facilities in downtown Joliet.
Alamo-Costello and Department Chair Paul Erschen. In addition,
Said veteran faculty member and former department chair, Michael
“Chester” Alamo-Costello, “When I arrived in 1999, we had two traditional
Students benefit from the guidance of two full-time faculty members,
the department oversees a gallery director and nearly 10 adjunct faculty
studios and a small ceramic kiln with three or four throwing wheels.
members, who teach in various disciplines including art history,
Everything was outdated. With the support of the administration, we
ceramics, painting, digital arts and photography. The department feels it
were able to slowly build the program and expand to the new facilities,
is covering just about every facet of the visual arts and feels it’s in a
increasing our size four times from what we had on the main campus.
healthy place in terms of providing students with a broad understanding
Now, we have dedicated spaces for ceramics, a woodshop, two drawing
of art and design practice, coupled with deeper analysis in areas where
and painting studios, a photography darkroom, two photography studio
students require more comprehensive studies.
lighting areas, two digital labs, four individual studios, a large format
printing facility and an art gallery. We feel that our facilities are now
Chicago art and design community. This is where USF students often
some of the best in the region and can properly prepare our students for
secure internships and land their first jobs out of school. The department
serious careers in art, design, photography and art education.”
regularly uses the city for experiential learning by way of visits to
artist’s or designer’s studios, galleries and museums—students have
The department took residence on two floors of the Rialto Square
In addition, the department holds a strong connection with the
Theatre building in downtown Joliet, and has since been named
even attended Erschen’s art openings and music events, bringing the
the “Center for Art & Design.” The expansion has allowed the program
experience full-circle.
to compete with programs at other colleges and universities.
prestigious ACRE art residency program has created opportunities for
Currently, the Art & Design Department offers concentrations in
Regionally, Erschen’s involvement in southwest Wisconsin’s
Graphic Design, Photography and Studio Art. In addition, a Visual Arts
student internships and alumni participation. On a grander scale,
Education program exists in collaboration with the College of Education.
the department utilizes travel courses to enhance student learning.
During Alamo-Costello’s tenure, he has taken students to New York City,
In recent years, faculty members have also offered topics courses
in cartooning, screen printing, documentary film theory, video gaming
Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Holland, Italy and Switzerland. CO NT I NU E D O N T H E NE X T PAG E
A Year of Compassion / 2016–2017
5
JENNA BRONSON CONSTRUCTED A LIFE-SIZE
STEPHANIE ZELINSKI CREATED THE SATIRICAL
BORIS PESHEV COLLABORATED ONLINE
MUSIC PRACTICE SPACE INSTALLATION,
MAGAZINE, #REALTALK, COMPLETE
WITH A LONG-TIME FRIEND WHO RESIDES IN
COMPLETE WITH LIVE MUSICIANS ON
WITH ADVERTISEMENTS, ARTICLES AND
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND TO CREATE A
OPENING NIGHT, TO OFFER INSIGHT INTO
PHOTOGRAPHY SHE PRODUCED. THE
CONCEPTUAL WORK THAT MERGED MUSIC
THE THRIVING FRINGE MUSIC SCENE IN THE
CONTENT OFFERED CANDID COMMENTARY
AND STATIC VISUAL DESIGNS TO CREATE A
JOLIET AREA.
ON CONTEMPORARY SOCIAL ISSUES
CONCEPTUALLY CHALLENGING INSTALLATION.
AFFECTING THE MILLENNIAL GENERATION.
The proof that it’s all working? Senior thesis.
engage with visual culture on a national and international level as artists
Each senior thesis exhibition is fully unique, and a time for celebrating
and art appreciators, while reinforcing their sense of where they are
the efforts of graduating students. Art & Design faculty members have
from. The gallery also strives, through the quality and scope of its
been fortunate to see a diverse student population completing their
programming, to be a creative resource to its community of students,
rigorous program. The department consistently raises a high bar and the
faculty, staff, alumni and local area artists.
results indicate its success in preparing students for a life beyond USF.
the gallery includes emerging, mid-career, and nationally recognized
In terms of the “vibe” of the current facilities, well, you really need
To demonstrate contemporary art practices in its exhibition program,
to visit. The Center for Art & Design has an industrial, urban feel and has
artists who are producing cutting edge work that formally and themati-
helped forge a real sense of community among students and faculty.
cally engages and stimulates our students, and fosters dialogue within
The students have taken ownership of the space.
the educational process. This work should transcend any concerns
of the art world, or comment upon it in ways that would interest the
“We initially thought that the separation from the main campus
would be a hindrance, however, we’ve encountered quite the opposite.
community. Only work of the highest artistic caliber that is relevant to
This is due to the urban experience afforded by the new space that
the thematic programming of a given academic year is considered.
could never be replicated on the main campus. Now our students have
the opportunity to experience what is found at a traditional four-year
the gallery, its true purpose is to expose the world to student work. In the
university, while also experiencing a similar art setting like Chicago’s.
2016 Senior Thesis exhibition, students presented a range of art, design,
It’s really the best of both worlds.”
and new media projects that investigated contemporary conceptual and
formal issues “with a fervent diligence,” according to Alamo-Costello.
Added Erschen, “We enjoy having a facility that invites a wide range
But don’t be fooled. While there’s a lot of community art exhibited in
of uses and visitors. I frequently come across non-art students who
find the setting of the Center for Art & Design to be an ideal study spot.
addressing,” he said. “Art & Design students are regularly testing new
Additionally, other departments at USF use our facility for meetings,
terrain and providing a specific visual voice as a response to the world
and we continue to host a summer arts camp for elementary students.”
they live in.”
“Each year we see new activities and problems our students are
For example, in the most recent thesis, Stephanie Zelinski produced
The Art Gallery
the satirical social commentary magazine #RealTalk. Jenna Bronson
The university’s primary space for exhibitions was previously located in
built the music project “Practice Space.” Boris Peshev collaborated with
the Moser Performing Arts Center. While that space is still set up for
a friend in New Zealand to produce the time-based installation
art display, in 2013, the university began renting an additional space in
“Time Signatures.”
the Rialto building to house the university’s first official gallery space. Gallery Director Jennifer Moore was soon after hired to schedule exhibits
Where Are They Now?
and lectures, and to curate the gallery.
The Art & Design program has many success stories...after all, the
department’s primary goal is to educate students to be life-long learners.
The USF Art Gallery’s mission boasts that its primary purpose is to
enrich the educational experience of the university’s student population
Graduates have gone on to work as artists and designers at Fortune
by exposing them to current practices in the visual arts, and to the
500 Companies such as Disney and McGraw-Hill Publishing. They’ve
best examples of art in their community. This dual exposure will expand
built independent art-based companies in the region, and pursued
their understanding of what is possible artistically, preparing them to
serious studio art practices in illustration and web development.
6
Engaging Mind & Spirit Magazine
“Art & Design, like all professional disciplines, is constantly in
For a peek at what current Art & Design students have been working
transition,” said Alamo-Costello. “Therefore, we tend to focus on instilling
on, arrange for a visit to the Center for Art & Design or check out
the understanding that one’s career does not end with the initial job.
an exhibition at the USF Art Gallery. Also, check out the department’s
We want our students to be leaders. Therefore, they need to build a
COMP Magazine at thecompmagazine.com. The magazine has been
career rather than become complacent in their practice. Fortunately, via
instrumental in the program’s ongoing development, providing a
social media, we have been better able to stay in contact and see our
classroom tool that allows students to learn about trends while also
student’s success. We now have students working in LA, New York and
getting the opportunity to learn about/cover art and design happenings
throughout the Chicagoland area in key positions.”
in the Chicagoland area.
Q&A
JENNIFER MOORE : : USF ART GALLERY DIRECTOR
What are your responsibilities as gallery
What is gallery programming like currently?
annual High School Art Competition, typically held
director?
There are exhibition receptions, and I have begun
in December/January. I am constantly fascinated
My job entails organizing and curating all shows
to increase programing at the gallery by offering
by the level of skill the high school students
at USF Art Gallery. I am also responsible for
artist talks during each exhibition. The artist talks
display in their work. It is inspiring to see their love
programming such as artist’s lectures, receptions
provide a unique and intimate learning experience
of art and watch their talents grow.
and art competitions, and providing support for
for all, providing students, faculty, staff and
Art & Design students and faculty.
community members a chance to meet each artist
What have you learned, either through
and listen, first-hand, to the artist’s process,
your role or through interaction with faculty
What is your background in the arts?
theory and art-making techniques. These talks
or students?
I have a B.A. in Art History and Photography and a
further extend the quality and scope of the
I have learned that the USF community has a deep
master’s degree in Photography. I spent 10
gallery’s programming, allowing people to learn
love of the arts. I am grateful to my colleagues
years teaching photography and art history and
more about each artist. I’ve arranged more
and supervisors who continually support the arts
working as an artist in Chicago before coming
daytime artist lectures, and am focusing on
at USF and beyond. I have found the dedication
to USF. When I began curating professional and
bringing a wider range of Illinois artists to USF.
of the professors and staff at USF has played an integral role in fostering the love of art.
student exhibits, I found it to be a thoroughly exciting experience.
What is the most interesting work you’ve seen displayed?
Do you make any art when you’re not working
What is the most interesting part of your job?
Every exhibit displayed at the gallery has been
in the gallery? What is your medium?
As gallery director at USF, I am constantly viewing
exciting in its own right. Exhibits change every six
When I am not wearing my gallery director hat,
the work of both local and national artists.
to eight weeks, giving the USF community a
I am a professional artist—a fine art narrative
Meeting them and learning about their work is a
chance to experience a wide variety of art by local
photographer. I spend my off days sketching
wonderful experience that I am able to share
practicing artists. We have exhibited painters,
scenes, scouting locations, prop shopping
with the students and faculty at USF. Connecting
photographers, installation artists, fiber artists…
and arranging shoots with models. I show my
those artists to our community has been one of
the list goes on. Each exhibition has been a true
work nationally and internationally in both solo
the most exciting parts of my job.
pleasure to curate and view. Aside from several
and group exhibitions. I have a great love for
professional shows at the gallery each year,
travel and try to work photo shoots into trips.
I find that I am particularly impressed with the
A Year of Compassion / 2016–2017
7
CO LLEG E O F A RT S & S CI E N CE S
Art & Design News The Art & Design Department offered the
St. Francis over the course of his 17-year tenure.
first video gaming seminar during the spring
The goal is to publish this effort to coincide
2016 semester at USF. In “Video Games &
with the centennial anniversary of the university.
Cyberpunks,” students were introduced to video
See more of his work at alamo-costello.net.
DI GI TAL AUDI O RECORDING AR TS ADDS F ULL-TI ME INSTRUCTOR
gaming history and theory coupled with bi-weekly gameplay. The initial class was full
So far in 2016, The COMP Magazine has
with a waiting list!
covered a wide variety of events that focus on multicultural issues, such as Kerry James
Digital Audio Recording Arts (DARA) instructor
The department held portfolio reviews for area
Marshall’s “Mastry” exhibit at the MCA Chicago,
Alby Odum, who was instrumental in helping
high school students. The reviews, plus the
to mainstream arts activities like Anime
program director Jeff Jaskowiak get DARA
annual High School Art Competition have
Central Midwest’s convention in Rosemont, Ill.
off the ground, has been hired full time.
become a consistent means for area students to
The COMP Magazine was also invited to
Odum has a B.A. in Music Performance from
engage with USF Art & Design faculty members
participate in the rebranding press seminar held
Northern Illinois University and a M.S. in
and to become familiar with USF’s offerings.
by the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago,
Music Technology from IUPUI Indianapolis, Ind.
and maintains a consistently strong social
He is a recording studio owner, engineer,
media presence.
producer (he’s been involved in over 100
Professor Michael “Chester” Alamo-Costello’s
recording projects), guitar instructor, recording
artwork, photography and writing has been published and reviewed in Just Indie Comics
Department Chair Paul Erschen, along with
artist, performer, composer, arranger, and
(Italy), LvL3 Media, Music Tomes, Verve
Gallery Director Jennifer Moore, has taken an
music publisher—wow! USF and DARA are both
Magazine (England), and National Public Radio’s
increased role in student recruitment and
thrilled to have him teaching full time.
848 Program, among other publications. He
scholarship disbursement. He maintains an
was awarded a sabbatical for spring of 2017 to
active studio practice in Chicago, which focuses
complete a three-book slipcase collection
on sculpture, woodworking, printmaking and
entitled “Somewhere In-Between Chicago,”
collecting. During the summers, Erschen tours
and is designing a book of portraits of students,
extensively with his band “Mayor Daley,” and
faculty, and staff made at the University of
also serves as the sculpture studio technician at the ACRE art residency in southwest Wisconsin.
COMMUN I CATI ON & M EDIA AR TS E X PAN DS CURRI C ULUM Communication and Media Arts (CMMA) Professor Terre Layng Rosner, a classicallytrained artist, has begun the dissertation phase of her Ph.D. in Art Education. Rosner is investigating the growing intersection, driven
DEPA RT M EN T O F M U S I C & P E RF O R M I N G ARTS N E WS
by digital technology, of traditional higher
The Department of
The Schola Cantorum, under the direction
education art programs and mass communica-
Music and Performing
of Patrick Brannon, will celebrate its 25th
tion programs. Rosner has been a professor
Arts hired a new
anniversary this season. The Schola Cantorum,
at USF since 1999. Because of her research,
department chair and
along with the USF Concert Chorale (directed
CMMA faculty members are revising curriculum
director for the Joliet
by Willard Thomen) and Singing Saints
to reflect the changes in the industries where
Symphony Orchestra
(also directed by Brannon) will present their
graduates find jobs.
(JSO) at USF: Alexandra
traditional Christmas concert in December.
“CMMA graduates will have a larger set of
basic skills in writing, web, video and audio
Dee, is completing her DMA in the orchestral This spring, USF announced the formation of
as well as the opportunity to focus on individual
a new Jazz Chamber Ensemble. Chamber
areas of interest like photo journalism, visual
The plays this year include “The Butler Did It”
performers are currently being sought and
communication or advertising,” said Department
by Walter Marks and Peter Marks (November)
will be chosen by way of a scholarship
Chair Brien McHugh.
and the musical “Godspell” by John-Michael
program. Visit stfrancis.edu/jazzchamber for
more information.
Foundations 1 faculty to present a lecture on
conducting program at Northwestern University.
Tebelak and Stephen Schwartz (March). Both will be directed by Ernest Ray.
Rosner has also been invited by the
“The History of the Female Figure in Western Culture and around the World” in November.
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Engaging Mind & Spirit Magazine
CO LLEG E O F BU S I N E S S & H E A LT H A D M I N I S T R AT ION
Enactus Champions
COB HA GOE S GLOBAL Dr. Orlando Griego, COBHA dean, traveled extensively this summer. He first visited USF’s
In only its second year at USF, the five-student
Albuquerque, N.M. campus, exploring the
Enactus team was named a Chicago Regional
possibility of bringing select COBHA programs
Champion and advanced to national competi-
to New Mexico. He also traveled to Asia to
tion in St. Louis, Mo. At the regional competition
seek out new international partnerships there,
awards ceremony, Kennedy Braasch was offered
similar to the MBA partnership USF currently
and accepted a summer internship. At the
holds with Brno University of Technology
national competition, all of the students were offered job interviews, with one being offered a full-time position with ADP. Enactus (formerly Students in Free Enterprise), is an
Left to right: Advisor Bonnie Covelli, Princess Clemente, Laura Munoz, Diana Viveros, Shannon Patino and Kennedy Braasch.
international nonprofit organization dedicated
kind of entrepreneurial approach that empowers
to inspiring students to improve the world
people to be a part of their own success.
through entrepreneurial action. It provides a
Among other large companies and foundations,
platform for teams of outstanding university
the Robert W. Plaster Foundation (for whom
students to create community development
USF’s Robert W. Plaster Free Enterprise Center is
projects that put people’s own ingenuity
named), supports Enactus. The team received
and talents at the center of improving their
$1,000 in prize money to support projects and
livelihoods. Guided by educators and supported
activities this upcoming year.
by business leaders, our students take the
in the Czech Republic. More information will be reported once partnerships are finalized.
N E W I N CUB ATOR M EM BER COBHA welcomes E3 Logistics System and owner Edward Wisniowski to the Business Incubator! E3 creates software for the logistics marketplace. The software is cloud-based and focused on helping organizations with large fleets of vehicles manage logistics and fleet mainte-
STU D EN T S REPRE S E N T CO BHA AT CO N F E RE N CE
nance. E3 applications merge traditional
USF students Shannon Walker, Austin Gass and
business processes with existing technology
Hailey Peterbok (pictured at left) attended
to create tools which allow businesses to do
the Midwest Business Administration Association
more with less.
(MBAA) International Conference in April at
Website
Palmer House Hilton in Chicago. While there,
goeeethree.com
they presented their paper, “The Expanding Role of Social Media in Traditional Business Marketing: How Emerging Social Media and Big
Blog goeeethree.blogspot.com
Data are Rapidly Changing the Role and
Responsibilities of Marketing Professionals.”
twitter.com/eeeThree_ed Facebook facebook.com/E3-systems-109661919122796
FACU LT Y N EW S
YouTube
COBHA welcomes the addition of faculty members Amanda Dore, a visiting accounting professor,
youtube.com/channel/
and Dr. Bonnie Covelli, who is teaching training and development courses. In addition, the
UC2HuKxwlt4vxFg6h0GMrJjA/
department welcomes back Dr. Rich Vaughan from sabbatical, while bidding adieu to Dr. David
feed?view_as=public
Gordon, who is on sabbatical this fall. Gordon’s research will focus on the role that Christianity,
Google+
specifically Catholicism, played in the development of free market type economies across much of
plus.google.com/+Goeeethree
the world. Gordon plans to study the origins of capitalism and the history of Christianity and Catholicism, and hopes to produce at least one academic journal article.
A Year of Compassion / 2016–2017
9
CO LLEG E O F E D U CAT I O N
Ann Draksler ’16: Inspired to Educate Others Through Art Ann Draksler
enjoyed sharing knowledge with people and
examples on how to better reach students,
chose to attend
helping them accomplish new things. It was not
and I plan to apply their advice and first-hand
USF because she
until high school, however, that she became
knowledge in my future classrooms.”
had heard that
interested in pursuing art education. She credits
it was known
art classes in high school for not only teaching
Draksler was fortunate enough to have a
for its excellent
her about the visual arts but also for recognizing
teachable moment with a student who realized
education
how the process of creating and sharing
how to use information gained in class outside
program and felt
her own art helped increase her confidence.
the classroom. During a lesson where students
While completing her field experience,
it was important to select a school that would allow her to be close to her family. Having been taught by several amazing USF College of Education
“Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.” E D G A R D E G A S
alums during her time in elementary and high school, she wanted to enroll in a program that
Art encouraged Draksler to grow as a person,
were asked to analyze and critique a few
could help her become the same kind of caring
and she wants to share that experience
photographs, the student raised her hand and
and supportive educator.
with others.
explained that since they started critiquing
photographs, she also started looking more
The most definable moment in Draksler’s
There are many experiences from her time
decision-making process was hearing firsthand
at USF that Draksler knows will help her become
critically at images she saw every day. Draksler
from her sister, Kate Draksler ’14, about
a successful educator. She shared that Chrysalis,
explained that the student went on to share
Kate’s positive experience at USF. “Kate was in
a retreat for education majors, had a profound
that she now knows to look at images more
her second year at USF, studying to be an
impact on her personal and professional goals.
closely to determine why they make her feel
elementary teacher, when I was trying to decide
Chrysalis essentially helps teacher candidates
on which college to attend. From what I
determine what it means to be an educator
heard from her about several of the professors
and, more importantly, what kind of educators
are important, as they teach students to look
and classes, I knew I also wanted to attend
they want to be. “I attended Chrysalis three
more critically at the objects surrounding
this school.“
times (as both a participant and student leader),
them and learn to express their ideas on a visual
and each time I learned something new. The
format,” said Draksler.
Draksler knew at a young age that she
wanted to go into education; she has always
Favorite Artist “Claude Monet. I have always loved the use of color in his pieces. I find it so fascinating how he could paint the same landscape but give the piece such a distinct mood because of the different colors and time of day in which he painted the piece.” Cherished Work of Art “‘Starry Night’ by Vincent Van Gogh. I love the movement in the piece and the color of the blue sky against the bright yellow of the stars. This piece also holds a
10
Engaging Mind & Spirit Magazine
professors who lead the retreat provide so many
special place in my heart as it was one of the first famous art pieces I learned about when I was a child.” Must-Visit Museum “The Art Institute of Chicago is my favorite museum. I love the variety of pieces available to see there. I have been to a few other art museums in the Chicagoland area, but they just don’t have as many pieces as the Art Institute.”
a certain way or remind her of different events. “I have always believed that the visual arts
LEAC H CO L L EG E O F N U RS I N G
USF Alumna Receives 40 under 40 Emerging Nurse Leader Award Amanda
have helped her be successful in her career.
Buechel, BSN,
She also credits her mentors, who supported
R.N. was recently
her during nursing school. “Kate Weigel
recognized
was my mentor through the end of my nursing
as one of the
school career.
40 under 40
Emerging Nurse
the Student Nurses Association faculty
Leaders in
advisor. She helped me so much while I was
Illinois. The 40
trying to find my way in nursing,” says Beuchel.
She was one of my instructors at USF and
under 40 Emerging Nurse Leader Award is
sponsored by the Illinois Nurses Foundation and
she says. “The instructors in the Leach College
is annually presented. The award intends to
of Nursing push you to strive for your best.
celebrate the dedicated service of nurses to the
The nursing curriculum prepared me with all
population and encourage exemplary dedica-
the knowledge I needed to start out as a
tion to the nursing profession, and promote
new nurse.”
growth in leadership for the advancement of
nursing in Illinois.
Nurse Leader Award is a great vehicle to help
support young nurses and their achievements.
Beuchel is an intensive care float nurse at
Advocate Christ Medical Center. She is part
“USF’s curriculum is one like no other,”
Beuchel feels the 40 under 40 Emerging
“This award is helping to create recognition
of the clinical resource unit and floats between
for nurses, early on, for all the things they are
the four ICU units, three step down units,
doing to positively impact nursing and the
emergency room, post-anesthesia care unit or
community,” Beuchel explains. “I hope that by
other areas where she is needed. “My responsi-
my receiving this award as a young nurse,
bility is to help units when their staffing requires
other new nurses will see they can take on
additional nurses to take care of their patient
leadership roles early on in their career and be
census. I come in and take care of a team
recognized for their contributions.”
of patients as if I was part of their floor,” explains
Beuchel. Beuchel is humbled to have received
Nurse Leaders list will be published in
this award. “There are so many deserving
completed a community service project, collecting canned food, diapers, and other items for the South Suburban Family Shelter. Their donation was well-received by SSFS Executive Director Diane Bedrosian. Student Doreen Begley’s paper on Florence Nightingale was published in the May 2016 Nevada Nurses Association paper, “Nevada RNformation.” LCON alumni April Kubinski, FNP-BC and Amy Vertin, FNP-C have opened their own urgent care centers called “Emediate Cure,” located in Shorewood and Naperville. April graduated from LCON’s BSN and MSN-FNP programs, and Amy from USF’s MSN-FNP program. LCON celebrated the grand opening of its new facilities at Guardian Angel Hall at St. Clare Campus on Aug. 17. Classes began there on Aug. 22. The new facilities include four sim labs, two skills labs, classrooms, and more.
“The Nursing Voice” and on the American Nursing Association of Illinois website.
them,” she says.
All awardees will be honored at a recognition
ceremony in September.
multi-tasking are traits she has identified that
Freshman & Transfer Nursing Campus Visit Day
LCON’s Nursing 250 spring semester students
The second annual 40 under 40 Emerging
nurses in Illinois and I am honored to be one of Being open to new opportunities and
LCON N E WS
Guests will tour the new nursing facilities and hear a presentation by Dr. Maria Connolly, Ph.D., CNE, APN/CNS, FCCM, ANEF, adjunct nursing professor at Loyola University and former dean of nursing at USF. Register at stfrancis.edu/visit.
Above: Student Savannah Agnich gives a sim lab demonstration to Caden and Addy Savoia, children of LCON instructor Jennifer Wills-Savoia. Right: Student Jessica Farrell addresses guests.
A Year of Compassion / 2016–2017
11
T HE FIG HTING SA I NTS
Former USF Coach Promotes Book with help of COBHA Student Former Saints who were coached by Pat
project…after all, Pat is practically
Sullivan know he’s a wise sage: not only on the
famous in the Saints community.
basketball court, but also in life.
However, while he was commu-
nicating with lots of people
When Sullivan retired from USF in 2010,
he had lots of ideas he wanted to share. One of
he knew, he was having a hard
them was about leadership—the same kind
time reaching the newer
of leadership that he, himself, had exhibited
generation of Saints and individ-
through his many years as a USF coach, athletic
uals outside the USF community
director, fundraiser and mentor. He decided
who might be interested in
to try his hand at inspirational speaking, and was
his message.
soon booking local and national speaking
engagements at schools, businesses, and even
Vaughan in the College of
some very large organizations like Nike, IMB,
Business & Health Administration
and Notre Dame.
for assistance. Vaughan used Sullivan’s quest as
a class project, assigning four teams to
One of his former athletes, Tom Kennedy
Sullivan approached Rich
Current USF student Jeffry Nichols and Pat Sullivan.
’86, suggested that Sullivan write a book about
research the project and make recommenda-
his thoughts and experiences.
tions for improvement. The teams “ripped apart”
Sullivan’s methodology (according to Sullivan)
in the classroom have been put directly to the
have started,” explained Sullivan. “He knew
and developed new plans which included
test. All the ideologies taught by Professors
that I had started doing speaking engagements,
the use of social media, to help Sullivan reach a
Vaughan, Ferrallo and Hearn were spot-on with
and he said, ‘Why don’t you write a book?’”
new demographic.
what I needed in order to succeed with this
project. Having instructors with professional
“If it weren’t for Tom, none of this would
Sullivan self-published his book, “Attitude:
After reading through the students’
“The marketing concepts that I learned
The Cornerstone of Leadership” in 2013.
proposals, Sullivan was excited about many
experience and the ability to put that into
of their suggestions but had no idea how
the coursework and projects they assign has
The most important thing an athlete brings
to even begin the process of initiating these
been very beneficial,” says Nichols.
to the athletic arena, the most important thing a
new processes.
student brings to academic arena, and the
a job with a company that will allow him to not
most important thing that a leader brings to his
said Sullivan, laughing,
only grow in his career but also grow as an
or her leadership position is their daily attitude.
individual. As captain of the USF bowling team,
So in my book, I use the word ‘attitude’ as an
senior year at USF as a marketing major while
Nichols says he would love to stay involved
acronym, giving each letter a characteristic that
also pursuing a logistics minor. When Vaughan
with sports or something else that interests
might make for a quality leader. I illustrate
announced that Sullivan wanted to take
him. His hobbies include listening to music,
my points using examples from three leaders
various ideas from the proposals and put them
hanging out with friends, watching sports, and
who I feel are best leaders I’ve met in my
in action by way of hiring an intern from
bowling, of course. He is a Saints Ambassador,
lifetime: former president of USF, Jack Orr;
the class, Nichols “sent an email in about two
a leader in the Student Alumni Mentoring
obviously coach Gordie Gillespie; and former
minutes,” offering his assistance to Sullivan.
program, and in a leadership position on the
Joliet Bishop Roger Kaffer. If you find better
The match was a success.
Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.
leaders than those three, you’re going to have
“Jeffry has been a perfect addition. Tom
to go a long way,” says Sullivan.
Kennedy continues to help with the newsletter
of working with Pat. His knowledge is so
“I really believe that attitude is everything.
“You can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” Enter Jeffry Nichols, currently entering his
After graduation, Nichols hopes to find
Said Nichols, “I have enjoyed every moment
I publish, and Jeffry can speak to Tom in a
extensive that there could probably be another
soon realized he was having difficulty reaching
way I can’t. I am really lucky to have his help,”
book just on what he has forgotten!”
certain audiences. Up until that point, all of his
says Sullivan.
publicity was done by word of mouth, which
actually served him quite well at the start of the
ample experience to take on Sullivan’s project.
Sullivan started publicizing the book, but
Nichols feels his coursework has given him
For more information about Sullivan, his book, his speaking engagements or more, visit his website at leadersattitude.com.
12
Engaging Mind & Spirit Magazine
FAI TH, MISSI O N & DI VER SI T Y
Pay It Forward Program Invites Local High Schoolers to Get in the Spirit Through Service University Ministry’s summer “Pay It Forward” program, coordinated by USF Chaplain Fr. Terry Deffenbaugh, gave area high school students an opportunity to gain service hours in a meaningful way. During the four-day experience, participants learned about the university’s four values of respect, integrity, service and compassion and put them in action. They learned about communitybuilding, sharing gifts and caring for the needs of others. Empathy, forgiveness, peace, and reverence for the gift of creation were pondered and promoted. Students learned about the importance of fulfilling responsibilities and developing a commitment to truth and justice.
At the beginning of each day, participants engaged
in learning activities that focused on understanding the aspects of service through the lens of our USF values and Catholic social teaching. They reflected on how service benefits not only the individual who is serving, but also the larger community. Then, the majority of each day was spent performing service at various locations in the region including a food pantry, a senior citizen’s center, an outdoor public space in need of cleaning and a building in need of repair. The students were divided into work teams and were taken to the service sites on USF buses. Each team visited each of the sites over the four-day program.
Said Renee Gauchat from the Will County Forest
Preserve, “The students were great and worked very hard. Each team cleared a half-acre of invasive vegetation a day. It was a great program, and we hope to participate again next summer.”
A Year of Compassion / 2016–2017
13
INTERN ATIO NA L P R O G R A MS
Rob Morley Joins USF as New International Admissions Counselor Rob Morley joined the USF family as
I developed a ‘classroom voice’ that I have been able to put into practice
an International Admissions Counselor in
with phone communication. I’m very conscious of the speed at which
October 2015. He’s looking forward to
I speak and the vocabulary that I choose when communicating with certain
beginning his first full year in his new role
students. I have also become very good at ‘bending my ear’ and taking
helping international students become
context into account to work through communication gaps. It would be
USF students.
very rare that we would get an applicant that cannot speak any English
After graduating from DePaul
at all, so there is normally a way to work through any difficulties.”
University in 2008, he moved to Thailand
to teach English at a Catholic university.
research has suggested that our school would be most appealing to those
USF focuses on a number of areas for recruitment because market
While in Thailand, he eventually switched roles and began working in
populations. However, USF’s aim is to create a diverse international
admissions to recruit international students for a Thai hospitality school,
student population. The recruitment staff tries to “cast a wide net” and do
then for a satellite campus of a British management school.
not exclude any countries from their efforts.
Hiring someone to fill this role was extremely necessary. The interna-
USF currently serves about 60 international students. The current
tional admissions process is intense, and previously the duties were
majority is from China and Saudi Arabia, but many other countries
being shared by several people. Centralizing everything into a new role
are represented on campus. Most of those students will stay for four years,
has allowed the admission staff to streamline their processes and respond
and an increasing number are choosing to stay to pursue graduate
to students in a timelier manner.
degrees after receiving their bachelor’s degree.
To be accepted at a U.S. school, international students are held to the
One might wonder how enticing USF is to foreign students. “Why do
same academic standards as domestic students. The major difference
they want to come to Joliet?”
is that English is a second language for the majority of USF’s international
students. In order to be admitted, they must pass English proficiency
international students are interested in. Joliet’s proximity to Chicago
exams. In some cases, students are not able to meet the required scores
and easy access via Metra is a major selling point, but the fact that Joliet is
and must receive extra help through our English Language for Academic
not directly in the city is attractive to some students as well. Students
Purposes (ELAP) program. Some students have to study in the ELAP
are able to enjoy the slower pace of a suburb during the week, while also
program for up to one year before they can move into an academic
having the option to venture into the city for weekend excitement.”
program. The other thing to note is that international students do not
qualify for financial aid, so the price of tuition is a primary concern
that many of our current international students also enjoy the fact that we
for many of them. Fortunately, USF offers several merit-based scholarships
are a small, faith based institution. Students seem to appreciate the sense
that are available to international students. This not only helps alleviate
of community that we have at USF and the fact that their teachers and
the cost of tuition, but also helps us attract high performing students.
classmates know them on a first name basis. Despite the fact that many of
Morley isn’t afraid of communicating.
our international students come from varying religious backgrounds,
“Luckily, I spent several years as an ESL teacher so I have a great deal
the majority have expressed a fondness for the type of atmosphere that a
of experience navigating through language barriers. While living in Asia,
USF W ELCO M ES AUST RIA N M ED IC A L STU D EN T S A N D INST RU CT O RS FO R SUM M ER PRO GR A M
Says Morley, “There are definitely some nice things about Joliet that
He continued, “Aside from USF’s geographic location, I have found
faith based institution—inspired by Franciscan values—can create.”
In June, USF welcomed its first group of students and faculty from Medical University of Graz, Austria, for a short-term international Nursing and Social Work Course. Austrian students studied alongside American students and their instructors co-taught with USF faculty. The program will continue to be offered at USF in even years and in Graz in odd years. For information, contact the International Programs Office at internationalprograms@stfrancis.edu
14
Engaging Mind & Spirit Magazine
G IVIN G BAC K DO NO R NEWS
Guardian Angel Hall Grand Opening On Aug. 17, USF was proud to welcome students and employees from the Leach College of Nursing (LCON), key donors and community supporters to the grand opening of Guardian Angel Hall at St. Clare Campus. More than 200 people attended and toured the newly renovated facility that will now house LCON and other ancillary offices for the university.
Special recognition was given to donors including
Eileen and Packey Webb family, trustee Diane and Bill Habiger, trustee Candice and Dr. Steven Rosen, trustee Cheryl Stepney, and trustee Tom and Michele Vana. Additionally, continued gratitude was extended to Cecily and John Leach, the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate and the Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart.
Earlier in the day, trustee Candice Rosen kicked
off the festivities with a campus presentation titled “Healing the Health Care Professional.”
Above: Sr. Grace Henneberry, OP and Sr. Peggy Quinn, OSF; top right: Linda and James Hathaway; bottom right: Debra Bacharz and Candice Rosen.
Trustee Diane Habiger Honored by Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce Alumna and USF trustee, Diane (Felbinger) Habiger ’77, has been honored by the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Council for Working Women with the 2016 Athena Award. The award, established in 1982, recognizes women leaders who demonstrate professional excellence, give back to their communities and assist other women in realizing their full potential. It is distributed by community organizations internationally and has been given by the chamber since 1988. Habiger has been a member of USF’s Board of Trustees since 2008 and is chair of the Trusteeship Committee. She has also been a mentor for numerous incoming new trustees.
OA K T REE D O N AT E D BY M A R T I N W HA L E N Move over, Three Oaks. Martin Whalen Office Solutions has donated a new Oak tree for USF’s campus, and it has been planted outside the Safety & Security exit of Tower Hall along Taylor Street. This gift is a nice example of a non-monetary gift that can make a big difference to the daily experience of USF students. Thanks is extended for this thoughtful gift!
S AV E T H E D AT E F O R U N I V E R S I T Y O F S T. F R A N C I S ’ T H I R D A N N U A L D AY O F G I V I N G —TA K I N G P L A C E D U R I N G F E A S T O F S T. F R A N C I S W E E K . T H I S I S YO U R C H A N C E TO I N S P I R E U S F S T U D E N T S B Y D E M O N S T R AT I N G T H E S P I R I T O F G E N E RO S I T Y T H AT S U P P O R T S T H E M A N D MAKES A DIFFERENCE IN THEIR LIVES F O R Y E A R S TO C O M E . W E LO O K F O R WA R D TO YO U R PA R T I C I PAT I O N ! V I S I T S T F R A N C I S . E D U / D AYO F G I V I N G F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N O R TO D O N AT E .
A Year of Compassion / 2016–2017
15
STAYIN G CO NNEC TED A LU MN I N E W S
Spotlight: Meghann (Mudron) O’Hara ’01 Childhood Experiences Provide Inspiration for Alumna’s Artwork There’s the notion that all children are
artists, and some of them lose their ability
castle, on a nautical life preserver, among storybook letters of the
only when they become adults.
alphabet, or in some other tableau that a child or parent can dream up.
The real artists, who work at it well
It was almost by chance that O’Hara ended up at USF, and at the
into adulthood, often draw from their child-
start, the road to becoming a professional artist was not so clear. When
hood experiences to create their work.
high school ended, all she knew was that she loved art, that she had
Others, like Meghann O’Hara, take it even
to go to college and that a dedicated art school wasn’t for her. Her parents
a step further, turning out work specifically
convinced her to try USF for a year.
intended for kids.
Her customized artwork could feature a child’s name near a sand
One of her greatest childhood memories was being read to at
“It became a perfect fit,” she says. “Every course played a positive
role in my growth as a student. Every professor had so much passion for
bedtime. A love of children’s books grew in her, and eventually a love of
their subject matter that my motivation for learning was revived after
drawing and painting led her to the work she does today. Her animal-
week one. I went from being a mildly enthused student to hard-working.
focused images adorn the walls of children’s bedrooms across the
I flourished at USF, and I am grateful for that experience.”
country, and are available via her website, My Good Night, and through
the online store Oopsy Daisy Fine Art for Kids. The work has also been
Thanks to her talent and drive, she found herself working in that world
featured at Pottery Barn Kids, Target and Chasing Fireflies. And it all
almost immediately. But she quickly determined that the politics and
began—in adulthood, anyway—at USF, where O’Hara was one of the newly
compromises of book publishing were not for her.
formed Art & Design Department’s early students and graduates, earning a degree in Visual Art with a concentration in studio art and graphic design.
Growing up, Georgia O’Keeffe was her favorite, and as she got older
After graduation she thought she would become an illustrator.
“At that time it was hard for me to depart from my style,” she says.
“I felt like every time an art director saw my work they wanted to turn it into something else—a collaboration of my work and their vision based
and matured as an artist, she identified more with Paul Klee and other
on something they had seen before. It was hard for me to meet
modern masters. Her love of simple shapes and an uncluttered style is part
those expectations and feel true to my vision. It just was not the right
of what caused her to gravitate toward animals for the majority of her
path for me.”
subject matter. Also, there was plenty there to work with.
upon Oopsy Daisy. Before she knew it, she was licensing and selling
“I found out I could put so much personality into an animal portrait,”
So she began looking for other opportunities, and soon happened
she says. “I could assign each one human-like expression with those last
her work. Today she creates her work without pencils or paintbrushes,
brushstrokes...their eyes. I wanted to see how far I could push that ability.”
which isn’t surprising, as illuminated screens are everywhere. What is surprising, however, is that when she is not creating artwork on a computer tablet with a pen she is doing it on her phone with her finger. A person can grow up, and the world can continue to evolve in surprising ways, but for someone possessing real creativity, the childhood artist remains.
Her designs are available in canvas wall art or paper prints, on hanging
O’Hara is currently searching for the next phase of her creative work,
growth charts or fabric wall decals, and even on night lights. They feature
and it just may bring her full-circle. An avid bedtime storyteller to her
whimsical images of animals and classic life-of-a-child icons, including
daughters, she has been thinking of children’s books lately. Perhaps the
monkeys, sand pails and shovels, tigers, giraffes, lions, starfish, sand
thoughts that are flowing out of her hearken back to the magical nights of
dollars, dogs, cats, songbirds, sea turtles, bears, geese, wolves, swans,
her own childhood when she was tucked in and read to sleep.
skunks, hedgehogs, baby chicks, mama hens, fish and coral, horses, cows,
pigs and piglets, walruses, goats and zebras. Twirling ballerinas, too. 16
Engaging Mind & Spirit Magazine
“I would love to write and illustrate my own story,” she says.
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS President
Shawn Walsh ‘00, ‘15 President-Elect
Keith Schomig ‘13 Past President
Artsy Alumni Endeavors
Karen Ciarlette ’94. ’97 Vice President for Constitution
Joseph Ferrallo ’85, ’06, ’07
COM M U N ICAT ION & ME D I A A R T S 40T H A N N IVERSA RY C E L E BR AT I O N
PI CTORI AL CALE N DAR AN D PHOTO CON TE ST
Vice President for Programs
The Department of Communication & Media Arts (formerly Mass
Order your official 2017
Judy Bulat ’72
Communications) is celebrating its 40th anniversary during Homecoming
University of St. Francis pictorial
weekend. Journalism, Mass Communications, and Communication
calendar today, complete with
Vice President for Young Alumni & Student Engagement
and Media Arts alumni, please join us for a reunion reception on Saturday,
12 beautiful USF-related photos.
Secretary
Sept. 24 from 5:30–7 p.m. on the 4th floor of Tower Hall. Professors
Proceeds will benefit USF’s Francis
Wihelmine Vidmar ’68
Rick Lorenc, Scott Marshall, Brien McHugh and Terre Rosner will be in
Fund, which supports student
Sisters of St. Francis Representative
attendance. USF’s beautifully-renovated WCSF-FM radio station studio
scholarships. In addition, if you’ve
will be toured and showcased and drinks and hors d’oeuvres will be
got got a good eye, consider
provided. Alumni from these majors are invited to join a new alumni
entering our calendar photography
network: Mass Communications Alumni Network (MCAN), which will
contest! Submit your favorite
have its first meeting on Saturday, Sept. 24 at 10:30 a.m. in C222
USF picture any time at stfrancis.
(Motherhouse 2nd floor). To RSVP: 877-811-ALUM, alumni@stfrancis.edu
edu/calendar.
or stfrancis.edu/alumni/hcrw
T HE PH A N T O M O F T HE O P E R A A N D LU N C H AT PET T ERIN O ’ S
Caroline Portlock ’02, ’04 Vice President for Scholarships
Candice Quinerly ’10
Sr. Lois Prebil, OSF ’61 Alumni & Family Relations Office Administrators
Aubrey Knight ’04, ’07, Director Valerie Penn, Assistant Director Student Representatives
Haley Collins Jeremy Grachan Taylor Ringo
GENERAL BOARD MEMBERS
Dominique Annis ’00, ’02 Matthew Bisek ’10
The Alumni & Family Relations Office will host a day trip to Chicago’s
Patricia Bracken ’73, ’86, ’94
theater district on Wednesday, Jan. 4. Guests will depart via USF
Sharon Dewart ’78
transportation at 10:45 a.m. and head to Petterino’s for lunch, followed
Elmer F. Eddy ’80
by The Phantom of the Opera at Cadillac Palace Theatre. Critics are
Jacqueline A. Edmonson ’63, ’88, ’94
raving that this breathtaking production will be “bigger and better than
Laura Eggert ’09, ’13
ever before.” USF transportation will have everyone back to campus by
Ysenia Gallegos ’13
approximately 6 p.m. Before Oct. 31, tickets are $80 per person.
H. Richard Hagen, J.D., ’90 Linda M. Kilroy ’72
After Oct. 31, tickets are $90 per person. ($5 of every ticket is a USF donation; limited tickets available.) To RSVP: 877-811-ALUM, alumni@ stfrancis.edu or stfrancis.edu/alumni/events
ART & DE SI GN ALUMN I PORTF OLI OS
Eric Lawhead ’07 Lynley Louzensky ’10 Erika Martinez ’11, ’15
Jessica Cuevas
Frances H. Naal Sczepaniak ’58
jessicacuevas.com
Jan Novotny ’67
Jordan Halata
L. Scott Pekol ’99 Alan Randolph ’07
behance.net/jordanhalata
Corey Richardson ’09
Emily Johnson
Susan Rogina ’94, ’99
emilyljohnson.com
Anne-Christine Tompkins ’14, ’15
Christopher Jones christopherjonesphoto.com Megan Mowery megan-mowery.com
stfrancis.edu/alumni/hcrw
Egzon Shaqiri egzonshaqiri.com Stephanie Zelinski
STAY IN TOUCH
Send news and class notes to alumni@stfrancis.edu or call 877-811-ALUM. To read about what other alumni and old friends have been doing, visit stfrancis.edu/alumni/success-stories
stephaniezelinski.com A Year of Compassion / 2016–2017
17
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE P A I D UNIVERSITY OF ST. FRANCIS
500 West Wilcox Joliet, Illinois 60435
Admissions event information or registration 800-735-7500 • admissions@stfrancis.edu
SATURDAY I NF O SESSI O NS Brief Saturday campus visits which include a short tour. Space is limited to three per family. SEPTEMBER 10, 17 & 24 • OCTOBER 1, 8, 15 & 22 NOVEMBER 12 & 19 • DECEMBER 3 & 10 k RSVP by calling 815-740-2270
stfrancis.edu/visit OR /openhouse Alumni event information or registration 877-811-ALUM • alumni@stfrancis.edu stfrancis.edu/alumni/events Athletics information or game schedules 815-740-3464 • gofightingsaints.com USF Art Gallery exhibitions 815-740-3787 • jmoore@stfrancis.edu Gallery Hours: Tuesday–Friday 10 a.m.–2 p.m., and by appointment. For information about all other university events and activities 800-735-7500 • stfrancis.edu
S T F R A N CI S.EDU