University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
College of Liberal Studies presents
The 14 th Annual
Evening of Excellence April 29, 2015 1
PROGRAM Host Mary Leonard, Theatre Arts
Welcome
Julia Johnson, Associate Dean Mary Leonard
Faculty & Staff Awards Ruthann Benson, Dean
Performance Collegiates–Vocal Jazz — Gary Walth, Music
Graduate Student Excellence Awards Charles Martin-Stanley, Associate Dean
Undergraduate Student Excellence Awards Mary Leonard
Performance Catch Me If You Can — Mary Leonard
John E. Magerus Award John Magerus, Dean Emeritus
Special recognition
Joe Anderson, Theatre Arts
RETIREMENTS Emily Johnson, Psychology Carol Oyster, Ethnic and Racial Studies, Psychology Don Sloan, Art Bill Zollweig, Sociology Tim Walls, CLS Advising Office
SPECIAL THANKS Thank you to the following people for their work to make this evening a success: Claudette Bode, Maripat Coughlin, Linda Dickmeyer, Sanja Dojcinovic, Laurie Kincman, Sue Lee, Mary Leonard, Brad Quarberg, Ron Stoffregen, Gary Walth, and Katy Zart. Excellence Awards Committee: Linda Dickmeyer, Julia Johnson, Charles Martin-Stanley, Betsy Morgan, and Leslee Poulton.
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CLS FACULTY AND STAFF EXCELLENCE AWARDS student thesis committees, and supervises undergraduate research projects, including projects through the Psychology Honors Program and the McNair Scholars. As his department chair states, “Overall, Ryan can easily be described as an extraordinary teacher.”
Faculty Recognition of Excellence Award for Teaching Mary Leonard Anderson Department of Theatre Arts Professor Mary Leonard Anderson joined the Department of Theatre Arts as full-time faculty in the fall of 2000. She is described by colleagues as “the heart and soul” of the department. Leonard is a director who, in addition to teaching in the classroom each semester, produces a minimum of three full-scale productions a year. Since arriving on campus, she has led more than 50 shows with casts ranging in size from 12 to more than 70. She has been a leader in curriculum development and co-developed the musical theatre emphasis program and numerous courses for actors, including one in cabaret. Leonard’s students describe her as “one of the most influential and supportive instructors” and someone who “allowed her students to explore … in a safe environment, giving her input in a manner that builds confidence, yet presents a realistic view of what one may deal with in the professional world.”
Faculty Recognition of Excellence Award for Research/Creative Endeavors Dr. Matt Cashion Department of English Associate Professor Matt Cashion arrived at UW-L in fall 2006 and teaches creative writing in the Department of English. Cashion is an accomplished scholar having published consistently in peer-reviewed journals and three books with national presses. His books include The Last Words of the Holy Ghost, How the Sun Shines on Noise, and Our 13th Divorce, due to be published in spring 2016. In January 2015, the University of North Texas Press announced Cashion won the 2015 Katherine Anne Porter Prize in Fiction for The Last Words of the Holy Ghost. This annual competition drew more than 250 international submissions. In addition, Cashion’s writings have been recognized regionally — he received the Zona Gale Short Fiction Award from the Wisconsin Writer’s Council for his short story, “Awful Pretty.”
Dr. Ryan McKelley Department of Psychology Associate Professor Ryan McKelley has been teaching courses in psychopathology and health psychology at UW-L since fall 2008. His courses are in high demand and students say McKelley is “one of the best instructors they have ever had” and that he is well organized, makes classes interactive, is approachable and accessible, and uses excellent real-life examples. He has also been described as knowledgeable, flexible, helpful and funny. In addition to his outstanding work as an instructor in the classroom, McKelley mentors independent student research, has served on numerous graduate 3
CLS FACULTY AND STAFF EXCELLENCE AWARDS how to make classrooms more inclusive, serving as the regional coordinator of the National Women’s Studies Association, and representing UW-L at the UW System Women’s Studies Consortium.
Faculty Recognition of Excellence Award for Service Dr. Betty DeBoer Department of Psychology Professor Betty DeBoer is a member of the school psychology program in the Department of Psychology. DeBoer’s service is vast and ranges from work on campus to service at the national, state and regional levels. At the state level, she has dedicated significant time to the Wisconsin School Psychologist’s Association through work as a board member for 17 years. As a board member, DeBoer served as president, president-elect and past-president. She was also asked by the National Association of School Psychologists to join the “Assistance to States Committee” through which she serves as a liaison and leadership trainer for 13 states in the Central Region of the U.S. DeBoer has also worked with statewide efforts to ensure safer schools and more positive school climates.
Instructional Academic Staff Recognition of Excellence Award Dr. Karen Hart Department of English Lecturer Karen Hart is being recognized for service. Hart has been Instructional Academic Staff in the Department of English for 10 years. In addition to bringing new courses to the curriculum (dealing with topics such as fairy tales and the monstrous), she has been the driving force behind the formation of the department’s Instructional Academic Staff Committee, which she has subsequently chaired. This committee supports the professional needs of IAS in the department. In addition, Hart has served as a member of the Literature Emphasis Curriculum Redesign team, the Composition Committee, the Faculty Senate Scholarship and Award Committee, and several IAS career progression committees. As the English department chair, Dr. Susan Crutchfield, says “Dr. Hart is among the best of us.”
Inclusive Excellence Award for an Individual Dr. Deb Hoskins Department of Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Associate Professor Deb Hoskin’s colleagues describe her as “a transformative activist educator whose work is driven by a commitment to inclusive excellence” and social justice. At UW-L, she has launched and participated in countless diversity and inclusion initiatives. A few of her accomplishments include serving as Inclusive Excellence Coordinator for the Center for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning, creating the “Teaching for Diversity Seminar” which for nine years brought faculty together from various colleges to address
Terry Smith Department of Communication Studies Lecturer Terry Smith is being recognized for his prowess as a teacher. Since 2007, Smith has worked in Communication Studies as Instructional Academic Staff teaching the department’s general education courses, CST 110 and CST 271. Colleagues describe him as a gifted teacher who is rigorous and has genuine concern for the well being of his students. He receives the highest student evaluations of instruction in 4
CLS FACULTY AND STAFF EXCELLENCE AWARDS the department and has been nominated by students for the Provost’s Teaching Award. Faculty who observe Smith’s teaching say he works hard to make each class session informative, applicable and creative. He is described by colleagues as “helpful,” professional,” “a joy to be around” and “a leader and positive force.”
in the college, The Psychology Department office is very busy. Craig responds to the needs of 30 instructors, an advising office, a graduate program and students from across campus. She treats everyone with professionalism and good humor. As the department chair, Betsy Morgan, says “I have had the pleasure of working with several excellent administrative assistants over the years and Sheri is the strongest with whom I’ve worked. Rarely is there a person with outstanding skills in so many areas that aid in the functioning and well-being of so many others.”
Classified Staff Recognition of Excellence Award Sheri Craig Department of Psychology Academic Department Associate Sheri Craig is described by her department faculty as a “self-starter” with “exemplary work skills” and someone whose “interpersonal skills are top notch.” With the most majors
graduate recognition of excellence Britney Shattuck Student Affairs Administration, Curtiss, WI Britney will receive her Master of Science in Student Affairs Administration in May 2015. Britney is an online student who works with the Advising and New Student Initiatives, Career Services and New Student Orientation at UW-Eau Claire. She is currently completing research on second year student programming, and first-year student experience. Britney is a member of the National Academic Advising Association, and the Graduate Student Representative for the Wisconsin Academic Advising Association.
Evan Pagel School Psychology, Weyauwega, WI Evan is pursuing his Education Specialist graduate degree in School Psychology. Last May, he received his Master of Science in Education in School Psychology. Evan is currently an advisor for the Upward Bound program and Disability Resource Services at UW-L. He is completing a graduate student practicum at Westby School District. Evan is the Treasurer of the School Psychology Society. He will present his research, “Glass Half Full: Impact of Optimism on Student Academic Achievement” at the National Association of School Psychologists 2015 spring conference.
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CLS Graduate Student Academic Achievement Award Kyra Halverson School Psychology, La Crosse, WI Kyra is a second year graduate student in School Psychology. Kyra’s faculty describe her as an “exceptional student” who often goes “above and beyond the core expectations” of a class. In addition to attaining a 3.96 GPA across four semesters, Kyra has completed 450+ hours in her practicum, has independently conducted research, and presented her research results at the National Association of School Psychologist’s annual
convention in Orlando, Florida in February 2015. According to the Program Director, Dr. Rob Dixon, Kyra has emerged as a leader with strong interpersonal skills who is timely and who takes initiative to assist faculty with projects such as assisting with assessment competency evaluations of first year graduate students.
undergraduate excellence awardsSenior John E.CLS Magerus Award forstudent Outstanding Graduating Katherine Svitavsky Political Science/Public Administration, Neenah, WI Crosse City Council since spring 2012, Katherine is a double major in Political which included work on the Finance and Science and Public Administration with a Personnel Committee and Budget Parameminor in professional writing. Katherine holds a 3.9 grade point average and has been ters Committee, among others. She is most on the Dean’s List every semester at UW-L. proud of her work to improve rental housing in La Crosse. Her accomplishments don’t Her other academic achievements include end there. Katherine has also participated in receiving two competitive scholarships, regional and national professional confercompleting extensive grant-funded underences, worked as a writing intern at Muller graduate research (including a rhetorical study of ChildFund International advocacy Media Inc., and received awards for her work websites), and serving as a research assistant promoting diversity in Residence Life. Her department chair, Dr. Jo Arney, says Kathto faculty in History and Public Adminiserine is “unmistakably ... a highly intelligent, tration to assist them researching content engaged, thoughtful and careful student, for a book project and a national course in person and representative both of our school the stewardship of public land. Katherine’s accomplishments extend beyond coursework and of our larger region.” and research to include serving on the La
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CLS undergraduate student excellence awards Kelsey Burt Department of Sociology, Eau Claire, WI Kelsey is graduating in May 2015 with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Pre-Occupational Therapy. Kelsey has initiated several research projects including “The Relationship between Music Genres and Deviance” and “The Effect of Social Media Use on Happiness” during her time at UWL. In addition to academics, Kelsey works 25-30 hours a week to finance her education. Kelsey also volunteers for the Salvation Army, La Crescent Animal Rescue and iCan Shine.
Zachary Barnetzke Department of Modern Languages, Medford, WI Zachary will graduate with his Bachelor’s degree in French in May 2015. Zachary spent a year studying abroad at the Universite of Lorraine in Nancy, France. He has been the President of the French Club, and volunteers as a tutor and conversation partner for beginner and intermediate students in French. Zachary’s capstone independent research is on the relationship between Finnish, Dutch and German languages. Eric Barreau Department of Psychology, Pardeeville, WI Eric will graduate in May 2015 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Pre-Professional track in Physical Therapy. Last summer, he studied abnormal psychology and women’s health studies abroad at the National University of Ireland in Galway. Eric has spent the last year organizing an honors independent research project on the potential relationship between self-control, mindfulness meditation and eating. Eric has been honored to serve as the Psi Chi International Psychology Honors Society Secretary for this academic year.
Kelly Denk Department of English, Waukesha, WI Kelly will graduate in May 2015 with a Bachelor’s degree in English Education and minors in Spanish and Teaching English as a Second Language. Kelly has served as a student teacher at Southern Bluffs Elementary School, Longfellow Middle School and 7 Rivers Community High School in La Crosse. Kelly has interned for the English and English as Second Language departments, and completed a service learning trip to Ecuador during her time at UW-L. She is currently a tutor for UW-L’s Writing Center, and the President for the Student Athlete Advisory Committee.
Robert Belle Department of Philosophy, Belleville, WI Robert will graduate in May 2015 with his Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy and History. Robert served as a congressional intern for the U.S. Senate while also participating in a summer internship program in American politics at American University in Washington D.C. Last April, he presented at the National Conference on Undergraduate Research on U.S.-Argentine relations during the Cold War. Robert recently developed a judiciary branch for UW-L’s student government.
James Dirth Department of Political Science/Public Administration, Naperville, IL James is studying Political Science, Public Administration and Sociology. He will receive his Bachelor’s degree in May 2015. James has been involved in research with the Sociology department and an independent project on the influence of SuperPACs on presidential elections. He currently serves as the Chair of the Segregated University Fee Allocation Committee, and the Legislative Issues Director at UW-L.
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CLS undergraduate student excellence awards year, he was awarded an Academic Initiative Stipend Scholarship for service in Ecuador. He is currently working on a research project, “Language Attitudes and Gender Roles in Argentina,” for which he received a research grant. Johnny works at Mayo Clinic Health System as a CPR and First Aid Training Instructor.
Alyssa Dorosz Department of Psychology, Hartford, WI Alyssa is double majoring in Psychology and Spanish, and minoring in At-Risk Child Youth Care. Alyssa has experience with social services through working with Stein Counseling and Consulting, Ltd. in Onalaska. She has been very active on UW-L’s campus by participating in Spanish Club, Colleges Against Cancer, Students Protecting the Environment and Intercultural Organization Promoting Awareness. Alyssa is a McNair Scholar who is currently assisting with research and preparing for graduate school application.
Elisabeth Granley Department of Archaeology and Anthropology, Milwaukee, WI Elisabeth is pursuing a degree in Archaeology and Spanish and will graduate in May 2015. Elisabeth has professional experience as a teaching assistant for the Introduction to Physical Anthropology course at UW-L. Elisabeth was awarded an undergraduate research and creativity grant to conduct research in Peru last summer. She is currently an intern at the Mississippi Valley Archaeological Center.
Peter Dziadowicz Department of English, Milwaukee, WI Peter will receive his Bachelor’s degree in English in May 2015. Last spring, he presented a research paper on Shakespeare’s “Coriolanus” at the National Conference for Undergraduate Research. Peter also completed an independent study tour to London last spring. Peter is a member of the Philosophy Club. He is currently a bookseller at Barnes and Noble, and volunteers in the La Crosse community.
Noelle Griffiths Department of Communication Studies, Rochester, MN Noelle is studying Organizational and Professional Communication and will receive her diploma in May 2015. During her time at UW-L, Noelle has studied team communication abroad at the Northern University of Ireland-Galway, and intercultural communication in India. Noelle is currently working as a peer consultant at UW-L’s Public Speaking Center, a student missionary for the Fellowship of Catholic University Students and a project and education intern for the La Crosse Symphony Orchestra.
Carly Frerichs Department of English, Thorp, WI Carly received her Bachelor’s degree in English Rhetoric and Writing with a minor in Creative Writing in December 2014. Carly served as the Treasurer and President of the English Club during her time at UW-L. Carly studied abroad at Kingston University in London during the summer of 2013. She was also a poetry editor for Steam Ticket, and the Editor-in-Chief for The Catalyst.
Danica Gullicksrud Department of Communication Studies, Onalaska, WI Danica will graduate in May 2015 with her Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies. Her emphasis is in Organizational and Professional Communication with a minor in Advocacy and Communication
Johnny Glaunert Department of Women’s Gender and Sexuality Studies, Onalaska, WI Johnny is pursuing his Bachelor’s degree in Women’s Studies and Spanish. In 2012, Johnny was one of four students elected for undergraduate research in Sri Lanka. Last 8
CLS undergraduate student excellence awards Criticism. Last year, she served as the Promotions Designer for UW-L’s Recreational Eagle Center. She is part of the Lambda Pi Eta Honor Society, and has been invited to present at the National Conference of Undergraduate Research this year. Danica is presently a Communications Specialist and School Age Care Administrative Assistant at the La Crosse Area Family YMCA.
UW-L and local community such as “Body Image Through the Ages” at Onalaska High School’s Diversity Days. She has been involved in the Multicultural Student Organization, Latin American Student Organization, Sociology Club and Women’s Studies Club. Nou Lee Department of Art, Appleton, WI Nou will receive her Bachelor’s degree in Art with a minor in photography in May 2015. Last spring, she was awarded the “All Students Juried Exhibition Award” during the All Students Exhibition Show. Last summer, Nou worked as a studio assistant to Binod Shrestha documenting art performances and assisting in 3-dimensional plaster works. She was appointed the Vice President of the Art Student Association in the fall of 2014. Nou’s work has been featured in several exhibitions, including the “Is this Real Life” exhibition in 2014.
Jenna Hensley Department of Modern Languages, East Troy, WI Jenna is pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Interpersonal Communication with a minor in Ethnic and Racial Studies. In the spring of 2014, Jenna studied abroad in Valladolid, Spain. Jenna’s final research project is titled, “Tango’ Maureen: an investigation of tango in a north American film.” Jenna is currently a Resident Assistant for UW-L’s Office of Residence Life. Sarah Jaech Department of Psychology, Reedsburg, WI Sarah is receiving her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in May 2015. During her time at UW-L she gained experience in research and teaching with the Psychology department. Since 2011, Sarah has worked as the Student Athletics Facility Manager at UW-L. Last spring, she interned for the State Public Defender’s Office assisting with witness interviews and evaluations. Sarah is currently a lab manager for faculty research in experimental psychology, a teaching assistant and tutor for Introductory Psychology and part of the Psychology Honors program.
Quinn Masterson Department of Theatre Arts, Whitewater, WI Quinn will receive his Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Performance in May 2015. Quinn has performed in many plays and shows during his time at UW-L, including “Catch Me if You Can” and “Spring Awakening.” He has also gained experience as a stage manager for many performances, as well as a teaching assistant for stage management and acting courses at UW-L. Quinn is currently the Theatre Student Representative for the Department of Theatre Arts. James Maxwell Department of Modern Languages, Stoddard, WI James will graduate in May 2015 with his Bachelor’s degree in Middle Childhood Education and Spanish Education. James has gained field experience teaching at various elementary schools. Last summer, James studied abroad at Universitas Castellae in
Natalie Kellerman Department of Sociology, Madison, WI Natalie will receive her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a certificate in Spanish and Women’s Studies in May 2015. Natalie has worked as an undergraduate research assistant for the Department of Sociology, and presented several projects to the 9
CLS undergraduate student excellence awards Valladolid, Spain. James was the Saxophone Section leader for the Screaming Eagles Marching Band. He is a member of the National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society. James is currently student teaching at Eagle Bluff Elementary School and Longfellow Middle School.
has served as the Vice President of UW-L’s Concert Choir, and been in Chamber Choir and Vocal Jazz. She currently works at the YMCA as a teen center staff member, mentor and music teacher. She is also a dance instructor at Amanda’s Academy of Dance in La Crosse.
Molly Monaghan Department of Psychology, Saint Charles, IL Molly will receive her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a Coaching and Competitive Athletics concentration in May 2015. As an undergraduate at UW-L, Molly has studied abroad at the National University of Ireland at Galway, presented various publications and studies, as well as gained research and teaching experience. She also served as a leader for an incoming freshman adventure-based orientation program. One of her current research projects is “Adherence to Exercise and Satisfaction of Three Basic Psychology Needs in the Elderly Population.”
Anne Riddle Department of Psychology, Madison, WI Anne will receive her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in May 2015. She is also studying Interpersonal Communication during her time at UW-L. Last semester, Anne completed a teaching apprenticeship in Social Psychology. She also has experience working as an advocacy intern for Bluff Country Family Resources. She is currently a tutor at UW-L’s Writing Center focusing on interpersonal communication. Anne serves as the President for the Psi Chi Club. Julia Roden Department of History, Port Washington, WI Julia is pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in History with a minor in Public Administration. While taking Introduction to Public and Policy History, Julia developed “La Crosse’s First Annual History Hunt,” a historical scavenger hunt in downtown La Crosse. UW-L provided her with an undergraduate research grant to finance the “Hunt.” Julia has applied to present her project and findings at the National Conference for Undergraduate Research and Wisconsin Association for Academic Libraries. Last summer, Julia participated in a study tour to Tanzania. She is the treasurer for the Phi Alpha Theta National History Honor Society at UW-L.
Chelsey Neitzke Department of Communication Studies, Lakeville, MN Chelsey will graduate in May 2015 with her Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies with an emphasis in Organizational and Professional Communication. Chelsey had the opportunity to intern for Steiger International over the summer of 2014. Last semester, she was a program coordinator at Crossfire Inc. Chelsey recently served as the communication studies department ambassador for the School of Arts and Communications’ event, Creative Imperatives. Cassandra Pacelli Department of Music, Elmhurst, IL Cassandra will graduate in May 2015 with her Bachelor’s degree in Music Education and a minor in French. Cassandra has gained field experience in choral education as a clinical student at West Salem Middle School and Sparta High School. Cassandra
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Thatcher Rogers Department of Archaeology and Anthropology, Kaukauna, WI Thatcher will receive his Bachelor’s degree in Archaeological Studies in May 2015. Thatcher has developed experience in the field of Archaeology through projects at
CLS undergraduate student excellence awards the Archaeology Southwest Preservation Field School at Mule Creek, New Mexico, and Field Excavations in Casas Grandes, Chihuahua, Mexico. Thatcher has presented his work at several archaeological symposiums, and has been a teaching assistant for professors in the Archaeology and Anthropology department.
the President of the Archaeology Club on campus, and a Teaching Assistant for World Archaeology. Mai Zoua Vang Department of Ethnic and Racial Studies, Onalaska, WI Mai will receive her Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies in May 2015. Her emphasis is in Organizational and Professional Communication, and Ethnic and Racial Studies. In 2014, she received an undergraduate research grant from UW-L to conduct research in Thailand for three weeks. In addition to her academic endeavors, Mai is an active member of the Asian Student Organization, and the leadership council for Student Support Services.
Mason Schultz Department of Political Science/Public Administration, Stoddard, WI Mason is pursuing his Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration and Political Science. Mason has interned for several campaigns during his time as a student at UW-L. He currently serves as a campaign manager for the 96th Assembly District. He was recently admitted to the Wisconsin Law School.
Lindsey Voss Department of Psychology, Balsam Lake, WI Lindsey will graduate in May 2015 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a minor in At-Risk Child/Youth Care. Lindsey has served in numerous volunteer and intern roles working with at-risk youth programming and development at Gundersen Health System, the YMCA, Upward Bound and more. Lindsey is part of the Psi Chi Honors Society and has experience as a teaching assistant for the Psychology department.
Christopher Stackhouse Department of Communication Studies, Houston, MN Christopher will receive his Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies with a minor in Economics in May 2015. Chris completed two undergraduate research projects: “Wage Differential by Gender” and “Economic Impact of the National Eagle Center’s Soar with the Eagles Event.” Chris currently interns for the Office of the State Public Defender, and is the Director of Public Relations for the UW-L Student Association. He also serves on the UW-L Football Leadership Council. Christopher Swoger Department of Archaeology and Anthropology, Combined Locks, WI Christopher will receive his Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology in May 2015. Last summer, he assisted with excavations and analysis for the Later Prehistory of West Turkana project. Chris received a grant from UW-L to conduct research in Northern Kenya. This April, he presented a poster on three dimensional laser scanning techniques at the annual meeting of the Society for American Archaeology. He is currently
Emma Winske Department of Psychology, Stevens Point, WI Emma will receive her Bachelor’s degree Psychology in May 2015. Last year, she worked with assisting mentally and physically disabled individuals at Riverfront Inc. This spring, she has been working as a research assistant for environmental psychology. Emma is also currently a pre-college tutor for elementary school students from historically underrepresented backgrounds.
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University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
College of Liberal Studies
www.uwlax.edu/cls 12