2005 Reunion Booklet Responses
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COLLEGE OF ST. CATHERINE
Class of 1940
Frances Heinz
I joined the St. Stephen’s Choir, Minneapolis, when I was about 14-years-old. I am now 87 years old and still a choir member. I developed 200 Sacred Heart and Immaculate Heart pictures and notebooks for two Jesuit Missionaries. The Sacred Heart promised that if we spread devotion to the Sacred Heart, my name would be written on His heart, for all eternity. My sister, Beatrice, who just died, also helped.
Annajean Merrill Oby
1. Have been married to Ralph for 57 years.
2. The good classmates and friends.
3. Concentrate on your English.
4. My theater history.
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COLLEGE OF ST. CATHERINE
Class of 1945
Virginia Breher Leidheiser
Retired, Executive Director Ohio Association of Child-Caring Agencies
1.The highlight of my life during the past five years was definitely my marriage to Paul Leidheiser on June 7, 2003. I had never given a thought to a second marriage, but Paul and I found a happiness together that surprised both of us. Our first year was a wonderful mix of travel, entertaining friends, playing bridge, and spending time at his summer home on Kelley’s Island in Lake Erie. Sadly, this all changed with his death from cancer on November 24, 2004. I am now back living in my house. I am trying to fill my life again and find that travel helps. I have been to New York, Florida, Hawaii, and plan to be in Santa Fe in August.
2.The spring of my senior year with all the recognition programs, parties, award dinners, and planning for graduation. It was a very fulfilling time.
3.Be aware of what a privilege it is to be able to attend the College of St. Catherine. Keep in touch with the friends you made after graduation. They will be a terrific support group.
4.One of my major interests during the past 45 years has been opera. My first husband and I traveled extensively in Europe to hear outstanding opera. My trip to Santa Fe will include opera at the marvelous Opera Pavilion there.
Elizabeth Donovan Williamson
Retired
1.Widowed, 2003. Have a five-week trip to Santiago, Chile, to visit grandchildren and twin great-grandchildren. Having a large family reunion in August 2005 in Door County, WI.
2.Meeting lifelong friends, and campus life. Learning more deeply my religion.
Claribel Goethin Misslin
1.Can’t possibly be 60 years? Good grief. That’s a long time ago, I have many pleasant memories of 436 Main. Like Sister Mary Rita, Sr. Enid—triple shifts, only one doughnut on Sunday mornings (there might not be enough to go around). Lights out at 10p.m., 11 o’clock on Saturday night, and last, but not least, “our special class” of 25. How many are still living? I will not be able to come as we are having a Lewis and Clark re-enactment celebration here and my family is all coming, which means I will have about nine here for a week. Almost a houseful! A couple of things about myself—just made 81—I would guess most of our class is at that age too. Spent 3-4 years wintering in Sun City with Mary, Marion, Rosemary, Rae, Petie, and myself. Great fun—many laughs and some tears. The last several years I have gotten out of North Dakota winters in California. Always nice to get home though. I have three children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. My health seems to be hanging in there—Thank you God. “Hello” to all who get back—best wishes and God Bless.
Dorraine Hennen Johnson
Homemaker, Mother
1.Retired, moved from home of 49 years to townhome, have resided there for six years, enjoy elder hostel and adult education courses provided by the University of St. Thomas. I have six sons, 11 grandchildren, and one great grandchild.
2.The friends who were classmates then whom I enjoy to the present day. Day students of the class of ’45.
3.Enjoy the beauty of the campus and the challenge of your classes. Make friends and participate in as many activities as you are able.
4.I not only eat apples, but I also devour the core.
Lorraine Lake Miller Madzo
Retired
1.I have realized so many dreams—I have been in most of the world and still have aspirations for a few places left to do. Goals are to see my grandchildren do what my dreams have been.
2.The cheese popcorn in the bowels of Whitby; the music on the jukebox; the “Big Sisters” program in 1941; the May Day convocation; Mendel Hall; Sr. Annette’s religion class; Bishop Byrne as a new priest–who was afraid of women!!!
3.“Go for it girl”—you can now challenge your instructors with your ideas—in1941, it was heresy to disagree. Thank God we have come up to a new beginning.
4.I love my “in house” cats or dogs—enjoy a soap opera, Guthrie, golf, travel, and my family, most of all!!!
Patricia O’Connor
Retired
1.I am retired for the past 16 years—and I’ve loved every minute of it. I’ve continued to play accompaniments for vocal students at lessons and recitals, and hope to travel to Turkey and go up the Nile—trips that have, so far, eluded me.
2.Playing Lady Jane in our freshman year production (1941-2) of “Patience;” Traveling around England in 1991 with a CSC group led by Sr. Eleanor Lincoln (wonderful trip); and all the music department fun in the hey days of Srs. Cecilia, Mary Davida, and Catherine Kessler.
3.Take part in every possible thing that comes your way! Live is so varied, so full of the unexpected. Nothing is wasted and all is enriching!
Georgette Prenevost Hansen
Retired Teacher
1.Teaching confirmation class and RCIA. Had a family reunion with eight children, many grandchildren, and five great grandchildren. Five daughters are planning their reunion with me in Denver, Colorado. Hoping to die at home.
2.Sr. Immaculata Keenan as my freshman advisor and mentor long after graduation.
3.Take advantage of all the opportunities available through which you are able to find spiritual growth.
I have an almost irresistible, unpredictable sense of humor, which surprises many, as they didn’t expect it—I have a rather serious exterior.
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COLLEGE OF ST. CATHERINE
Class of 1950
Martha Borgersrode Liesch
BA, Sydney College of Divinity, 1993
Retired, Teacher and Practicing Grandmother
1. Hope to live out my years in continuing good health and in growing awareness of the aptness of the closing words of the “Hail Mary.”
2. The discussions in Marie James’ science seminars, lunches in the cafeteria, and the bridge sessions.
3. Treasure the friends you are making! They will last a lifetime even if you’re separated by thousands of miles. Choose a vocation/occupation, which will optimize your contributions as a Christian woman for e.g. teaching and politics, communications, media, motherhood, and religious life.
4. After several years of study and sitting the exam in California, I received a California Lifetime Teaching Credential for Grades 1-6!
Verna Budde White
1. During the last 25 years, I’ve been confined to a walker, the results of post polio syndrome, but it has given me time to reflect on the results of 112 years of Catholic education to which our children have been exposed. The effects have been most gratifying. My dream now is to provide the best example possible for them and their children to follow. Intermingled with this hope have been travels to ancestral homes in Ireland, and visits to each of the U.S. states.
2. At our baccalaureate Mass, one male walked up to receive communion, my fiancé, Harry White.
3. Keep up with your homework; don’t let it pile up on you. Also, be friendly with all your classmates.
4. I played bridge in a Round Robin group of 60 couples, my partner for the year was 96-years-old, and we came in first place at year-end. (Her daughter was Mary Timbers, CSC class of 1952).
Barbara Burke Walsh
RN, Retired
1. Retired from nursing ten years ago. Active in my parish as a Eucharist minister/lector. Facilitator of a Scripture class. Enjoying grandchildren and travel.
2. The Chapel at Christmas time—the music, carolers, etc.
3. Enjoy your studies and your friends (wonderful memories!) and I’ve never been turned down for a job I’ve applied for!
Joyce Call
Retired, Minnesota Department of Public Welfare
Yvonne Carpentier Stenzel
AA, 1994, Scottsdale Culinary Institute
Retired Pastry Chef
1. In 2001, I moved into my newly built home in Eugene, OR. I was able to sell a large place in El Cajon and move closer to my family. I belong to St. Paul parish and enjoy my friends and family in Oregon.
2. Whitby Hall was my home-base for four years—loved the girls, the faculty, and the challenges involved in college-level classes!
3. Pray-study-pray—enjoy your friends—pray—work hard—persevere!!
4. After my husband (of 40 years—six children) died, I was guided by prayers, to attend a culinary institute. I apprenticed as a pastry chef at Hotel Del Coronado.
Nancy Davis, CSJ
MA, Religious Education, 1968, Loyola
1. Living with retirement.
2. Being accepted into the College.
Mary Elizabeth Dempsey
PhD, 1961, University of Minnesota; MS, 1952, Wayne State University
University of Minnesota Medical School and School of Biological Sciences, Professor (Emeritus) Biochemistry
1. I retired last June after nearly 50 years at the University of Minnesota—first as a graduate student, and then as a faculty member. I was an elected member of a small faculty group that advised the university president. Enjoyed my second home on Lake Superior. Traveled to Greece in ’02 to visit former students and see the Greek Islands. Traveled to Ireland in ’03, when my nephew from Portland, OR, ran in the Dublin Marathon. Rode from St. Louis to St. Paul on the Mississippi Queen Steamboat during the reenactment of the 1854 Grand Excursion in July 2004.
2. Walking with my great aunt, a CSJ sister, into the chapel from Derham Hall on the day I decided to attend St Kate’s; my days at the College were the happiest of my life; the campus in spring and fall.
3. Study hard; benefit as much as you can from the academic and social life; enjoy your professors and fellow students; advance your spirituality.
4. I collect stuffed animals and birds (some of which sing), especially teddy bears—one is my age, he has been with me since I was a baby.
Frances Dillon Foley
Sculptor
1. I am continuing to work at being a sculptor! One of my sculptures, “Triglyphs,” was chosen to be part of the “Arts on the Streets” contest in Kalispell, MT. in ’99—the sculpture still stands on Main Street. As a result of that contest, the Hockaday Museum of Art in Kalispell invited me to have an exhibition of my work—which led to a grant that would send my sculptures (12) on a “traveling tour” around the state of Montana. There were seven exhibitions over a period of two years. This past fall, the Hockaday purchased two of my sculptures for their permanent collection.
Helen Flynn Swore Blatz
Retired, Teacher
1. My dreams have been realized—at my age one doesn’t worry about goals, one just enjoys each moment the good Lord grants. The last five years have been filled with happiness, sadness, good times, and bad times. Life is an endless up and down spectrum; one has to cherish family, friends, good health, and financial stability. I feel so lucky to enjoy summers at the lake in Minnesota and winters in Bella Vista, AZ. My network of friends in both places has certainly enhanced my golden years.
2. Helping to launch a political campaign and winning.
3. Grasp all the knowledge you can. Believe me, friendships made here will last a lifetime. Plus, never forget to laugh.
4. You’d never guess!!
Jacqueline Gibis Breher
Retired
1. I rarely leave town for over two weeks at a time; I would miss too much.
2. The good times I had with my classmates.
3.Participate! For the best time of your life, make your friends for life, enjoy every day. We laughed, played cards, and talked.
4. I love peanut butter and chocolate!
Margaret Majeres Maresh
2. Looking for pj legs below academic gowns at early morning weekday Mass.
3. Study and absorb knowledge throughout your entire life.
4. Are you serious???
Shirley Manderfeld Meinhardt
Retired, 3M—30 years
1. Our family tree continues to grow: we have three sons, two daughters-in-law, seven grandsons, three granddaughters-in-law, one granddaughter, three great grandsons, and two great granddaughters.
Maureen Mashek
Retired Teacher, Minneapolis Public Schools
1. I’m trying to remain healthy, mobile, and focused so that I can keep traveling, volunteering, reading, seeing family and friends, and learning new things. Two big trip highlights are: I took a month trip on a truck (!) all over India and had incredible experiences! I took a train tour throughout six countries in southern Africa and had great adventures. Last fall I spent a night in the Sahara—too much sand!
2. Almost too many to single any one out, but…1.) Day students napping on my bed on 3rd Whitby. 2.) Teaching a Freshman Fundamentals of Speech class for Mabel Frey so she was free to direct “Romeo and Juliet.” 3.) The beauty of the campus year-round. 4.) The wonderful friends-students and faculty. 5.) Winning the national Phi Beta Delta speech tournament sweepstakes my junior year. 6.) Being elected president of the College Association, the same office that my mother held in 1921-1922. 7.) Sneaking down to the Jeanne d’Arc Auditorium in my bathrobe to sit on the balcony and hear the Krasner Ensemble rehearse with Dimitri Mitropoulos playing the piano.
3. 1.) Take advantage of as many of the opportunities as you can squeeze in four years. 2.) Make good friends and keep in touch with them and with the College all your life.
4. Did they know that Sister Eleanore Michel, whose office was on 2nd Whitby, was a friend of my mother’s and she (Sister Eleanore) always had a dish of candy I was free to eat at any time.
Patricia McHugh
MPH, 1973, University of Minnesota
Retired
1. I’m learning meditation. I continue to enjoy retirement and after 15 years in semi-rural California, moved this past year to Minnesota with very mixed feelings. I appreciate all my blessings.
2. Being able to combine nursing and college campuses and making and maintaining friendships.
3. It’s been too long for this and I’m too old!
4. I’d like them to know how much I appreciate all the fun and laughter, but hopefully they already know.
Dorothy Reardon Coughlan
1. The death of my husband, Dan, after 52 years of marriage, was the biggest change. Learning to live alone and enjoying my 30 grandchildren and first great-grandson. Being a “snowbird” in Arizona and traveling.
2. Working in the kitchen under Sister Adrianna. Piano lessons from Sister Anna. Tuition was $90 a quarter!
Jo Arlene Redmond Aspelund
Dietetic Internship, Veterans Administration Wadsworth General Hospital, 1951
1. A trip to Belgium with our son, Curtis, and his wife, Helene, and their four children. Helen is from Belgium. We visited her family at Ciney, Belgium, and took side trips to Paris and London.
2. A trip to Europe the summer of 1949 with Dorie Cline. There were 13 of us. We counted 13 pieces of luggage every time we got on or off a train or bus. We had a private audience with Pope Pius XII at the Vatican.
3. Take advantage of every opportunity that comes along.
Edith Rollig Trestler
Mary K. Simon Matthews
1. It will not be possible for me to attend the Centennial Reunion. We have a wedding in the family. The success of the reunion will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Mary Thompson, CSJ
MS, 1958, University of Minnesota
PhD, 1964, University of California, Berkley
Chemistry Professor, Emerita
1. Still recovering from hip revision surgery. After retirement from the College of St. Catherine, I worked for the Ministries Foundation as a grant writer. When the Foundation lost money in the CSJ downtrend two and a half years ago, I left the Foundation.
2. Teaching beginning chemistry students and encouraging them to shoot higher than their current goals in traditional roles.
3. Don’t be afraid to follow your interests. If you aim for the “hot jobs” area, it may not match your skills or interests. And by the time you graduate, the field may have become too crowded. Look at fields in engineering of all kinds if you have math skills!
4. When I was adopted (four months old!) my parents asked an uncle who was a pediatrician, to certify that I was educable.
Joan Turner Richardson
1. Retired August 2003 after 25 years teaching early childhood special education.
2. Being Dean Sister Cecilia’s secretary. Being rosebearer for the Class of 1949.
Shirley Whitmore Lorenzi
1. Last five years have been momentous. I was five years cancer free last summer. My youngest son married. Two beautiful grandchildren were born to my only daughter. Renewed two Katie friendships by phone. Would like to see an alumnae group start up again in Kansas City and surrounding towns. Went to several gatherings long ago when sisters came through town.
2. Being called to the office and told I’d won a Mademoiselle contest and trip to New York. My mother just recuperating from surgery and being able to come to my graduation.
3. Never stop learning (I have taken maybe 50 plus classes and workshops since graduation). Stand up and be counted for what you believe in.
4. I still write poetry and—shades of Sister Maris Stella—I have recently attempted a couple of religious poems.
Cletes Winter Hicks
“Sort of” Retired RN
1. I keep very active—CPR instructor, volunteer of clinic for the poor through Rotary Club, volunteer one day a week at Family Practice Clinic, soon to work with podiatrist in his new outpatient practice.
2. When class of 1950 took part in “Wizard of Oz” production and I was one of the “scared lions.”
3. Appreciate the chance you have to be part of St. Kate’s—the memories and knowledge will make your future more positive and spiritual.
4. I love to do “stamping,” mostly cards. A bit clumsy but lots of fun.
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COLLEGE OF ST. CATHERINE
Class of 1955
Barbara Arend Kast
Retired
Enjoying retirement, traveling and have completed several elder hostels.
This fall, I will be married to long-time friend, Richard Walton. We’ll be living in Arizona (winters) and Brainerd, Minn.
Janet Arens Dysthe
RN, Part-Time
Enjoying grandchildren. Several cruises: One on the St. Lawrence Seaway from Montreal to Boston, and one in the Western Mediterranean.
Spending three months at the Veteran’s Hospital in St. Cloud. It was during the summer and I learned to play bridge and had two beaus! One patient played checkers with me for the first time in a long time.
Study hard, have fun, be good. You can do anything you wish to do. This is completely different from the 50s.
Doris Bartoletti Barry
Retired
I’ve found my guardian ad litem work these past five years to have been extremely challenging and rewarding; but now with a new diagnosis of MDS, I’ve had to cut back and slow down. My passions are still with my family, visiting with friends, reading, and knitting in my free time. A special highlight of this time has been monthly lunches with dear friends and classmates, Molly and Maxine.
Therese Beaudette
Retired
Sold my business (Seminars in Nutrition, a continuing education program for dietitians). I am now a docent at the Denver Art Museum. Also busy at St. Thomas More Parish and School.
Sister Mary Davida (Wood): “We do not butter our bread by the acre here at CSC” as a freshman (not me) was slathering her bread. Graduation—June 7, 1955.
Enroll in as many courses as you can. Work as hard as you can. Be sure to enjoy the cultural activities at CSC. Don’t forget to smell the roses along the way.
I now color my hair.
Donna Busch Kasbohm
MA, University of St. Thomas
Music/Liturgy Coordinator, Campus Ministry, College of St. Catherine
Mary Carroll Contreras
Retired
High points of the week are going to the ocean (three miles from home) with hubby, Mario.
Sliding down the chute at Whitby during spring festival.
I never give advice unless asked and my kids know everything!
I pray for them everyday and hope they will pray for me!
Sally Casagrande Spearman
Living eight months in Texas and four months in our family home in Hibbing, Minnesota. Loving the nice weather in Texas and happily having children and grandchildren as a close part of our lives. We have five children and 17 grandchildren. They are the most important part of our lives and they keep us young and interested. I am also a Eucharist minister at St. Anthony’s Church in Texas. Our extracurricular activities include aerobics, enjoying friends, and traveling. They make our retirement years so fulfilling.
Realize that St. Catherine’s may not be the great rah rah school, but more important, it prepares you for life and you make lifelong friends. It is very rewarding.
Rosemary Connelly Gleason
Retired
I am enjoying my retirement with my husband, children, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, many members of our extended family, and numerous lifelong friends. It is very gratifying for me to be available to support family members and friends in their need. Although I have retired as a church music director and liturgist, I now have the opportunity to be an accompanist on the piano and organ for Sunday liturgies, weddings, and funerals as often as I wish to do so. I am enjoying a relaxed style of living with a sprinkling of musical challenges. I feel very blessed to have good health at this time in my life. One of my favorite volunteer positions is being chairperson of the annual Interfaith Choirfest for the last five years. Interfaith Outreach, sponsored by 22 churches of various denominations, helps meet the medical, housing, clothing, and food needs of the needy in western Hennepin County. Choirs from these 22 churches are invited to combine and present the Interfaith Choirfest on an annual basis. Proceeds from the concert go to Interfaith Outreach.
I will always have wonderful memories of my mentor, Sister Mary Davida, who was my piano and organ teacher, a well as my advisor. She truly was an inspiration to me with her musical talent, enthusiasm, and positive attitude.
Jeanne Cosgriff Folstrom
Retired
I’m in retirement. Traveling, visiting children and grandchildren. Keeping the family connections alive.
Singing with Sister Lucina as director in Freshman Carolers and the Liturgical Choir. Being Winter Carnival queen.
Engage in the arts even as you seriously study toward a career goal thereby forming yourself and your character as a whole person.
I enjoyed detassling corn for 50 cents an hour. Now, how many ears of corn are on each stalk?!!
Mary Pat Delaney True
MA, Counseling and Psychology
School Psychologist
At this point in my life I find myself 72 years old with my oldest daughter, Mary Laurel True, 46 years old and a graduate of St. Catherine; Michael True, 45 years old and a graduate of the University of Oklahoma, John Keenan True, 43 years old and a graduate of the University of Massachusetts; Christopher True, 40, and also a graduate of the University of Massachusetts; Betsy True, 39, and a graduate of St. Kate’s; and myself and my husband grandparents of eight children with two more on the way. I dreamt of marrying a college English teacher, having many children, having a career in psychology, and traveling. All have come true, but not as easily as I’d hoped for. For example, after I had six children in six years, I had a full-fledged nervous breakdown followed by a heart attack seven years later (caused by being on “The Pill”). My travels began in 1984 when my husband and I spent a year teaching at Nanging University. Later, we traveled to Ireland, England, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Australia, and New Zealand.
The most important thing that happened to me at St. Kate’s was having Agnes Keenan as my teacher for every class she taught. Later, we became dear friends. She is the saintliest person I have ever met.
Try to find at least one teacher who can steer you through or be your mentor. There has to be mutual trust, so you will have someone you can talk to, can advise you, and help you through the worst of days, as well as celebrate the best days.
I am married to a man who has enjoyed two Fulbright Scholarships, written ten books, and has had friendships with people such as Daniel and Philip Berrigan, Stanley Kunitz, Dorothy Day, Denise Levertov, and Howard Zinn.
Charlann Eue Suel
Retired
I retired from science teaching with the Department of Defense in Germany, where I had been employed for 12 years. I volunteer in my community, do a little substitute teaching, and travel a great deal. I love my retirement!
Playing bridge in the “Smoker” in the basement of Derham Hall. The air was so blue one could barely see the cards. Thankfully, I quit smoking!
Take advantage of every opportunity for growth that the College offers. Nothing is ever a waste. And don’t smoke.
I have lost touch with my classmates since I have not lived in Minnesota for a long time. I would like to get reacquainted.
Kathleen Hanrehan Student
Unable to attend the reunion. Sorry!
Rosemary Hanrehan McGraw
About all that has changed in the past five years is that the grandchildren now total 14. My children, grandchildren, church, and community activities take most of my time.
I was an only child so I thought living in a dorm was great.
My granddaughter is a senior this year at St. Catherine, so I just tell her to enjoy the campus atmosphere.
Gertrude Hazzard Geck
BS, Education, St. Cloud State University.
Teacher/Librarian, Retired from St. Cloud School District.
My life is filled with new beginnings. After 36 years in Avon, Minnesota, I moved to a new home on Skogman Lake in Cambridge, which is closer to my family. I recently became a member of St. Bridget of Sweden Catholic Church in Lindstrom, Minnesota. I’ve now found time to do some writing.
Sitting in rocking chairs in Sister Eleanore’s office as she taught advanced Spanish to her majors. She was filled with words of wisdom and the classes always ran overtime.
My advice is from the book, Breathe the Wind, Drink the Rain, written by my friend, Doug Wood. ACCOMPLISH THINGS THE WAY AN APPLE TREE ACCOMPLISHES APPLES.
I am writing children’s poetry. I also go fishing every day in the summer.
Maryl Hoey Danley
Retired, Head Nurse, Psychiatric Locked Unit, United Hospital
Now spend more time with my family.
All the good people I met and worked with, and the good friends I still have.
I would advise them to evaluate all their affiliations and decide where they felt they belonged.
I can’t remember anything specific, but make as many friends as you can and they will always be there for you no matter how long you’ve been out of school. It is a wonderful profession.
Joan Kain, CSJ
MS, 1972, University of North Arizona
Volunteer Teacher
Reflecting on the past five years, I feel that I have “hit the jackpot” of jubilees. In 2001, we CSJs celebrated the 150th anniversary of the first sisters’ arrival in St. Paul. In 2004, my St. Joseph’s Academy class had its 60th reunion. This year, 2005, the College celebrated its Centennial with my graduating class as golden jubilarians, and I have completed 60 years as a Sister of St. Joseph. I’m also looking forward to a friend’s golden wedding anniversary in June. Definitely, I consider myself “lucky,” blessed, and a little in awe of the history which has been celebrated during these few short years.
I attended as a young religious juggling teaching duties with Saturday classes, early weekend college, and summer school. It meant we nuns did not get to know the “girls,” but we did enjoy life on campus and experiencing the great and challenging teachers at CSC.
Don’t be so busy that you miss the experiences and values that could be learned from your classes at CSC.
I have a great interest in rocks, quarries, and old stone buildings.
Mary Kennedy Sobraske
Travel with children and grandchildren. Latest trip to Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. Active member in parish life of our town. Very active with grandchildren.
Sister James Agnes. Minor in philosophy and theology. Making lifelong friends.
Keep the faith—it will serve you well as you face the trials and tribulations as well as the successes of life.
I moved my household 21 times in 27 years (wife of an army officer) then lived in the same house for 20 years after retiring.
Anne Lahiff Klein
I’m enjoying the flexibility of retirement—more and varied volunteer activities, taking classes through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Minnesota, and just plain loafing. I love spending time with our children and grandchildren, watching the youngsters grow and mature. Lastly, I would love to return to Ireland. My last trip there was with the CSC Tour in 1955.
Our wonderful theater department and especially Mabel Frey. Her office remains a vivid picture in my mind—disorganized organization.
To be knowledgeable about the beginnings of the founding of CSC and to take pride—even brag—about attending what is now the largest women’s college in the U.S.
Because I was a figure skater before my days a CSC, I returned to that sport as a judge and team leader. I traveled to such places as Germany, the Ukraine, and Paris.
Dolores Mathiowetz Goldberg
Retired
During the past five years Bob and I have traveled to China, New Zealand, Australia, Panama Canal, Central America and Mexico. We are enjoying our retirement in beautiful Southern Oregon.
Nancy McGovern Kopriva
Not much has changed in the past five years. John and I are into our 70s and working toward turning the farming operation over to our youngest son, Matthew, who has been farming with us since 1998. After 14 years I retired my position at our local public library in April 2002. In 2003 I was asked to serve a six -year term on the library board. This has been a good way for me to keep up my deep interest in this stimulating institution in this small town. Five years ago we were the grandparents of 11 grandchildren and that number is up to 16 with number 17 due in October. We truly have been blessed with all seven of our children, spouses, and families active and in good health, as are John and I. It’s hard to believe that 50 years ago we were young women about to leave our college days behind us and enter into our chosen careers. How exciting to be able to enjoy this special reunion with many of my classmates and to review the incredible educational advances that St. Catherine’s has accomplished these past 100 years. Hopefully St. Catherine’s will continue to be a prominent force in the education of young women in the coming century and beyond.
Participating in the musical, “Rise and Shine,” composed and written by two of my classmates—Pat Connolly Durkin and Donna Busch Kasbohm. What fun times!
Enjoy and appreciate the education you are receiving at this unique women’s college.
Louverne Noble Williams
M.Ed., 1960
Retired, Minneapolis Public Schools
I retired from the Minneapolis Public Schools in 1998 and thought I would travel and garden at my leisure. Not so. I am heavily involved in church, community, and family at this point. I do (we do) have as immediate/intermediate goals home landscaping and gardening, but also travel. Alaska is the first place we plan to travel for pure fun. We have children living on both coasts, so we do travel to Washington, D.C., and San Francisco, California.
Too many to single out—probably the dance at the opening of St. Joseph Hall. Mostly, the making of new friends and maintaining of old friends from high school. Those friendships are still intact today.
Be open to learning new things in addition to academics. Be open to new ideas, new people and their cultural values, talents, and skills, even though they are different from your own. Differences are good! Get past saying, “We’re all the same under the skin,” or “I don’t notice differences.” If you don’t, or pretend not to notice differences, then, a) You’re probably not being truthful or, b) You are missing some important and beautiful things about those around you. Nurture your spirit and your soul as you do your body and your mind. You are in an extremely beautiful environment to do so. Take advantage of it. Call on us alumnae and let’s see what we can learn from each other and share. Women of color: Call on us alums of color so that we can network! We love you!
As chatty as I am, I can’t imagine there is anything my classmates don’t know about me. Perhaps that I have, with my husband, Stan, five grandkids ranging in age from 16 to two years, and I have a newish titanium hip which really works.
Mary Rockwell Monahan
We all miss George terribly. What a guy—35 years in the Air Force and only two retirement years. I spend a lot of time with my nine grandchildren, five “children,” and with my twin, Annie. Also there are 33 family members here on the East Coast. My health is great and I count my blessing. God’s blessing to all of you.
Just have a good time.
Because we were identical twins, we often answered for each other. The teachers could never tell us apart (tee hee!). Perhaps that’s why our grades were the same.
Jane Schadegg Cortella
Retired
MA, 1958, University of New Mexico
Happily retired on the beautiful central coast of California with an active social life and wonderful friends plus visits to and from children/grandchildren who all live in California. Goal: To live long enough to organize the photo collection of a lifetime!
Participating in Pat Connolly Durkin’s “Rise and Shine” musical production with terrific friends. Also, some beloved teachers: Sister Eleanore, Mary Virginia, Mary “Bill,” and Father Murphy.
Simply—take your education seriously; and tritely—have faith in yourself and “be all you can be.”
Though my health is the main reason I will not be attending this reunion, I also don’t want to see my “old” buddies—I want to remember them as the “young” ones I saw at our 25th!
Anne Schmidt Otterson
MA Architectural History
Became a grandmother
The architectural beauty of the Chapel—good friends, stimulating professors.
Catherine Schneider Cich
Retired
Retired. Some travel with husband. Lots of activities with grandchildren. Enjoy our home and garden. Active in church and community.
Just enjoyed all of my classmates. We still get together regularly.
Marjorie Stack Tracy
Retired and still healthy!
The great girls and the wonderful friendships we made!
Hang in there!
Cretia Stafford Benolken
Retired, Nursing Instructor
MS, Nursing, Catholic University
Though retired, I continue to teach in the RN/BS program.
Living in the triple in Whitby Hall my sophomore year.
Take time to enjoy these times with your classmates. And, nursing is a wonderful profession!
I love parasailing!
Marilynne Thomas Walton
Poet/Writer, Retired Librarian
I am most happy sharing life with my husband, Mort, and our two children. For six months of the year we live in our winter home in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. We enjoy spending time with our Miami son, Roger. Then we return to the St. Paul house where we are near Amy and her husband, Nate. What could be lovelier!
Each year of my life as a writer is enriching . Last year I won a Barnes & Noble poetry contest and read my poem there. Then, I received a $500 award for my poem, “I Can Taste this House” from the Family Housing Fund. The poem was a part of the Fund’s “Home Sweet Home Again” traveling exhibit of poetry and visual art shown at Intermedia Arts in Minneapolis and elsewhere. Winning artists and poets were honored at a reception at The Loft this fall, where I read my poem. Another poem was published in Speakeasy, Winter 2004.
Study, reflect, laugh, pray hard. All will come back to you full circle, like the Catherine wheel. You are unique—you are a St. Catherine’s Woman! Be glad!!
I sometimes draw cartoons from the political to the Dadaistic.
Nancy Williams Moran
As a breast cancer survivor I count each day as a gift! Paul, too, is doing well and we enjoy having all seven children and 14 grandchildren in Minnesota. They keep us busy! Travel is fun—but home is where my heart is.
The many lasting friendships that live on 50 years later.
Treasure this time and use it well. The world needs you!
I like winter in Minnesota!
LaVonne Wyffels Lutz
Consummate Volunteer and Student
MS, Nutrition, 1957, University of Iowa
People to People ambassador to Egypt, Global Peace Initiative, People to People ambassador to China, Child Nutrition and Public Health Elderhostels in Sedonna, Santa Fe, and Superior, Wisconsin. Human Rights Commission, Senior College Board at SMSU, birth of fourth grandson, Roman James.
Incredible depth of faculty minds, role models, great friendships, rich spiritual milieu, peaceful and safe environment conducive to thought and reflection.
Utilize and enjoy every opportunity to develop mind, body, and spirit. Listen and participate.
My passion for music and dance. In the next life I will study both and seek my place in the theatre!!! When my body wears, I will write with passion and publish
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COLLEGE OF ST. CATHERINE
Class of 1960
Janet Auge Cook
Retired
Enjoying retirement with my spouse and retaining reasonably good health. Hopefully, we can continue to travel, both foreign and domestically, and winter in Florida and/or other warm locations, as well as visit our children scattered around the country.
Marjorie Bordenave Donalds
MA, Notre Dame, 1970. MA, University of Kansas, 1974
Educational Consultant, Self Employed
I am an activist seeking to bring justice to Central and South America. My dream is to close the SOA/WHINSEC, to reverse the imperialism of the U.S., to open trade and travel with Cuba.
Going to France with Sister Marie Philip and Sister Mary Henry in 1966 with the NDEA Institute. It was after my graduation, but a great memory of a CSC Institute.
Be informed on current events and history so as to be a critical thinker. Remember Jesus’ “option for the poor.” Write three pages in your journal every morning. Stay connected to your women friends.
That I was arrested at Fort Benning, Georgia, trying to close the School of Americas/Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation.
Barbara Butler Kondziolka
Homemaker
My husband and I attended my nephew’s wedding in the Twin Cities area in August of 2003. I visited the Alumnae Office and saw Coeur de Catherine for the first time.
The goal never justifies the means. We learned this either in philosophy or theology.
My husband and I have lived in Albuquerque for 21 years, our entire marriage.
Mary Ann Carroll DeZiel
MA, University of St. Thomas, 1989
Educator-Adjunct Professor, Bemidji State University
The last five years have brought incredible blessings into my life. In 2002 we experienced the birth of our first grandchild, Matthew Joseph, followed by the birth of two granddaughters, Molly Ryan and Sophia Lydia in 205. In 2001 I enjoyed a trip to Istanbul, cruised the Greek Isles, and went on to Rome. Launching a new phase in my career at the university level has offered me an opportunity to give back what I have so graciously received from mentors through my years in education.
I fondly remember on cool autumn days walking from Fontbonne to the Chapel for morning Mass wearing pajamas and a coat.
Enjoy these days on campus when your main focus in life is to learn and grow as a person.
I love to sit and read late into the wee hours of the morning. It is something I often do as life now provides the time for such luxuries!
Rosalyn Carroll Kraft
MA, French Language and Literature.
Retired
Bob retired in 2004, and we decided to move to Sedona, Arizona, after visiting there for several years. Bob and I are enjoying the spectacular beauty of Sedona and have become involved with the “Friends of the Forest,” a volunteer group which assists the Forest Service. And we are involved with a Lifelong Learning Group at Yavapai College. We are so happy to have the free time to travel. Our February cruise took us around the Horn of South America. The entire South American experience was fabulous. I have become involved in researching our Carroll genealogy and just returned from Ireland, where my cousins and I walked the farmland of our great grandparents. They immigrated to St. Paul at the end of the Great Famine (or Great Hunger as some prefer to call it). We are learning so much about our pioneering ancestors.
I loved the French program. The wonderful humanities classes taught me to appreciate the world’s art and architecture. I enjoyed carpooling with Joanne LaPole Hawkins and Mary Ann Leininger Gross.
Be inquisitive. Challenge yourself to learn in-depth. Don’t just study to pass exams. Take part in as many programs as you can. You’re lucky to be a Katie.
I’m a terrible golfer.
(Mary) Judith Dady Miller
M.S., l963, University of Rhode Island
Retired Bacteriologist-Chemist
I taught the lower grades for several years and loved it! I also was a public school paraprofessional for 10 years. I am now a political activist working on the Minnesota Marriage Amendment. The cause is extremely worthy, non-intimidating, and very rewarding. I am anxiously awaiting grandchildren.
2.All of the mandatory attendance college convocations. All of the outdoor events: Freshman Picnic, May Fete, etc.
3. Do your very best, study hard, have fun, and enjoy the short precious college years. You have no idea of what lies ahead!
4. I was stone blind. I had eye surgery and now I can SEE!
Colleen Donahue Thompson Michels
MA, Oral and Written Communication. MS in Higher Educational Leadership
Retired, President of Ridgewater College, Willmar and Hutchinson
In 1998, I lost my dear husband, Bill Thompson, to cancer. Two years ago I married Jim Michels, a long-time friend who also lost his wife to cancer. We have a marvelous “Chapter 2” life. New winter home in Arizona and lots of travel.
Mabel Frey!!
Believe that you do anything you dream and be anything you dream!
Mary Ella Fust Stedman
MEd, 1988, University of Minnesota
Real Estate Sales, Newhomes.com
Enjoying semi-retirement, family, grandchildren, traveling, taking cruise of Baltic to St. Petersburg this summer. Many trips to France. Lots more books to read!
Mrs. Collopy’s French classes, where I developed my love for the language and culture—and, of course, the people I met there.
Study hard and enjoy college life—it’s such a short time and you don’t realize it while you’re there.
I wouldn’t know—I guess I’m an open book.
Marilyn Gibbons
Retired, High School French Teacher,12 Years; Wally Findlay Galleries in Chicago, 24 Years
I enjoy retirement very much. I travel quite a lot—Russia, Scandinavia, Italy, Sicily, Ireland, Poland, Czech Republic, and Hungary. I am continually rehabbing my home, trying to get one room per year modernized if possible. My nephew and niece and their respective families are a constant source of enjoyment and help me to keep young, I like to think.
My favorite memories are, of course, in the French Department with Sister Marie Philip, Anne Collopy, and Sister Marie Usurle.
Enjoy your college experience
I don’t have a clue.
Ruth Haag Brombach
Executive Director, College of St. Catherine Alumnae Association
Right now I thoroughly enjoy watching our children’s children grow, develop, and mature. The entire process makes much more sense this second time around. I enjoy the opportunity to be part of the lives of the new generation.
I loved everything about my days at St. Catherine’s—the intellectual stimulation, the companionship of friends, and the joy of accomplishment.
I would suggest that anyone stay open to the many opportunities that come. New doors open constantly. I like to enjoy what is on the other side.
Patricia Hand Reisch
Retired Social Worker, Always a Mom and Grandma
As a retired “senior,” I am enjoying life to the fullest day by day. I love spending time with my 12 (almost 13) grandchildren and viewing life through their eyes. Travel, attending concerts and plays, reading good books and enjoying the company of friends keeps me busy.
I have many fond memories of CSC, especially the wonderful friendships made and now matured through the years. I enjoyed playing the violin and also singing at numerous college music performances.
My advice: always keep an open mind. Share your God-given gifts with others. Enjoy the simple things in life. Try to avoid unnecessary stress. Live and laugh! Humor is good for the soul.
Margaret Hill Bechtold
Retired
Retired from O.T., learned to quilt, learned to say “yes” and learned to say “no,” traveled to Italy. Enjoy time with husband, Bill, since he retired. Spoil the grandchildren.
Theology 101 (1956) majority of classmates were named “Mary.”
The truth always saves time. Stand up for what you believe in; believe in what you stand for.
Rochelle Jankovich Brandl
MA and Ph.D Ed. Psychology
Psychologist, Director of Fraser Child and Family Center
Moving from full-time, directing not-for-profit agency providing mental health services to severely emotionally disturbed children/adolescents and families, to part-time, leaving more time for grandchildren and travel.
Group gatherings with housemates in Whitby and Fontbonne Halls.
Nurture your friendships at St. Catherine’s. They will be lasting relationships.
I’m passionate about gardening.
Mary Roberta Jones
Retired, Senior Foreign Service Officer
“Adopting” two beautiful children whom I met while working in Guinea-Conakry.
Giggling with my roommate, Terry Lockrem (Sister Rosalie would be forced to enter our room if it went on into the wee hours!).
Study hard!
I have brain cancer.
Joyce Junion Barina
MA, Theology, 1995, Sacred Heart School of Theology
Volunteer and Homemaker
Enjoying daily life with my semi-retired husband, Jerry. Grateful that our health is stable, we enrich our lives auditing classes, attending conferences and spur-of-the-moment adventures. I’m still on the Board of Directors for Sacred Heart School of Theology and continue teaching a scripture class. Childless, it’s amazing how busy our 16 nieces and nephews keep us!
How gracious, kind, welcoming and inclusive the students were to me as a transfer student!
Be greedy! Take advantage of the life-enriching extra-curricular activities and offerings the college provides, as much as you can fit into your busy schedule.
I’m a prayer leader at our Parish. My husband and I were selected to participate in a pilot archdiocesan program to train the laity to lead “Liturgy of the Word and Rite of Communion” in the absence of a priest during the week. Now, our group takes turns doing this every Tuesday morning.
Joan Larson Lohrke
Retired, Teacher
Retired in 2001. Volunteer Lakeland Public Library. Have traveled extensively in Europe. Return to Minnesota each summer. Three wonderful sons—all assets to their communities.
Graduation! Seriously, the CSC experience changed my life. Social conscience was formed there as well as a lifelong love of learning.
Take advantage of as many activities as possible. I remember being awed attending a violin concert by the great Nathan Milstein.
I would never win any golf tournaments! My son, at three years of age, could out-drive me!
Mary Kay Laughlin Williams
Program Director, Camp Knutson
Working full-time at Camp Knutson , a camp in Cross Lake, Minnesota, for kids with special needs. Have come full circle—started out in camping during CSC years—then teaching high school biology and 20 years of freelancing.
Hanging out in St. Joe’s Hall at the Smoker.
Pour your heart into what you love—tell your truth to yourself over and over.
I’ve been a beekeeper for 22 years.
Elizabeth Laun Bayless
Retired, Volunteer Leader
I am retired but serve on several boards—some of them are charities. In August 2004 my husband, Tom, and I went to Perth, Australia, where I was a member of the AAUW delegation to the IFUW Triennial Conference.
My classmates and many very special professors!
Take advantage of the variety of liberal arts courses offered at St. Kate’s. This background will help you professionally and will benefit you throughout your life!
I definitely enjoyed the 14 years we lived in Canada, even though my ability to converse in French wasn’t the greatest.
Mary Ann Leininger Gross
Built a house across the street for our former home. Had fun participating in the whole process. Enjoyed a great trip to Australia and New Zealand with my husband, Loren, and Dave and Joanne Hawkins.
Visiting in the Smoker as we waited for carpool members. Friendships made.
Enjoy the experience. Get to know your classmates. Take time to just hang out on campus.
I exercise regularly. Enjoy aerobics, spinning, Pilates, and yoga.
Therese Lockrem Lenzo
MS, Indiana University, South Bend
We moved to Denver from South Bend, Indiana, five years ago so my mom (92 years) could live with us. Husband, Carl, is an ordained deacon for 25 years and has been in constant pain for eight years now after an acoustic neuroma was removed from his inner ear. After three years of this I was in a deep depression. We had both lost our jobs. I am well now, but we have not found a solution to Carl’s constant severe head pain. Our two youngest children are now in the area and we’re enjoying them. Our seven older children live in San Francisco, Tallahassee, Chicago, and North Carolina. We still hope to be in ministry together and to see all nine of our children (yours, mine, and ours) fully committed to the Lord. In spite of Carl’s pain, we were able to travel to England in 2003 and stay with my sister and her husband for three weeks and spend time with her four children and six grandchildren. We also had a delightful week in France where I thoroughly enjoyed speaking French. I speak it better than ever now and St. Kate’s gave me a wonderful background in it.
Meeting first night at St. Kate’s in the basement Smoker—I’m still friends with several of these girls.
Don’t waste these precious years. Learn all about your faith that you can and take every opportunity to worship the King. Seek His Face!
I have taken up skiing again with my youngest son (26 years) after 30 years.
Madge Lohmann Frahm
Many thanks! So sorry that I won’t be there!
Mary Ann MacNeill Decaen
MSW, University of Minnesota
Retired, Social Worker/Program Director
Retired from Catholic Charities of Los Angeles, Inc., Ventura County Region, after 18 years where I worked as a community services program director. I’m enjoying grandchildren (five), and traveling. Looking forward to trip to Italy in June 2005 with our son, Father Ramon Decaen.
Gathering with friends in the “tearoom” after classes to further discuss class material. Visits to the chapel. Father Anger’s theology classes.
Mary Margaret McAlpin Brennan
MA, 1967, University of Chicago.
Retired.
In June 2003 I retired from my position as the middle school librarian at University School, a private school for boys in Shaker Heights. After 27 years, it was time to let someone younger take over the myriad responsibilities of an independent schoolteacher. It turned out to be just in time to help my husband recover from successful open-heart surgery. I had planned to spend a little more time with our two granddaughters but they and their parents moved to Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin that summer. Our older son, his wife, and their newborn son live in Needham, Massachusetts, a suburb of Boston. Our family reunions are precious times and never frequent enough for me. The year 2004 provided two travel highlights with trips to France in the spring and the fall. My husband and I traveled to Normandy, Compiegne, Paris, and Chartres in April In September I joined my sister, Anne McAlpin Lohmann, Ginny Buckley Orth, and her sister, Janice Buckley Orth to visit Perouge, Lyon, and Paris. We four CSC grads, (three of us were French majors), met with Jeanne Bisanz Feeney, another CSC French major, one night in Paris. Sr. Marie Philip, Sr. Marie Ursule, Sr. Mary Henry, Mrs. Collopy and our other French teachers must have been beaming as we enjoyed la belle France.
Inspiring teachers and classmates, challenging studies; practicing for and performing Dolphin Club swim shows; studying more or less silently in the old reserve library, which is now the bookstore; participating in the planning for the “new library.”
Learn another language and then spend some time in another country in order to gain a little understanding of the world outside the U.S.
I once climbed 14,000 foot Castle Peak in Colorado and I now have difficulty tolerating heights.
Elinor McKenna Temple
Bookseller/Owner, Excelsior Bay Books
At a good point—enjoying running my little bookstore in Excelsior and spending time with my daughters and grandchildren. Duane and I travel often. Most interesting trip—two weeks in the rainforest of Costa Rica.
Sunday nights senior year when Sister Rosalie would let the 14 “trusties” of Fontbonne Hall cook, put on plays, or stage entertainments to celebrate any occasion we could come up with.
Enjoy the school and your time there—you will meet some of the smartest women of your life on that campus. Learn from them and later share that knowledge.
I’m an open book! Oh, Peter and Cathy Lupori—favorite CSC teachers—are now step-great grandparents to my grandchildren.
Marguerite Melin Senninger
Retired
Have recently moved back to St. Paul after spending 43 years living in six different states. Am enjoying getting reacquainted with the Twin Cities and all of its cultural opportunities.
Take advantage of all the cultural events (both inside and outside of St. Kate’s) that the Twin Cities has to offer—especially the SPCO concerts, the literary events, and the theater! Get exposure to a wide variety of career paths and interests.
I’m an opera fan!
Ruth O'Brian Brunke
Centre Club, Child Care Assistant
At this point, I am enjoying working part-time with young children, and having the benefit of travel to see our children in Seattle, Washington and Ogden, Utah. Also a trip to Ireland two years ago began a quest for new adventures.
The challenges that were visited to all of us students as new avenues and careers suddenly were revealed as “doable” and possible.
Explore all options! Your talents may be in fields yet to be discovered.
We are still living in the same house after 43 years because I am too lazy to clean out the closets and basement necessary to move!
Annette Pampusch Conklin
MA, Music, 1981, University of Notre Dame
Retired, Music Teacher
2002 was a watershed year. We moved back to the Twin Cities after 37 years in South Bend, Indiana. Dick is retired from University Relations at Notre Dame. I am retired from piano teaching, but still doing judging.
I remember when Sister Lucina came backstage before my senior piano recital and just chatted. I realized later she was helping me relax. I loved the humanities class freshman year where we learned about art, music, and history together.
Enjoy the opportunity you have for close friendships, leadership, and spiritual grounding at a college that cares about you as an individual. What you learn here will affect your entire life.
That I married a guy who once floated a bathtub in the Dewdrop!
Mary B. Pearson Walsh
MS, Nursing, 1966, University of San Francisco Medical Center
Retired
1. Traveling to Italy (in Rome saw Pope John Paul), Germany, and many other countries. Birth of a first grandchild—a son—named Christopher. Moving from Tennessee to Pennsylvania.
2. Being mistaken (repeatedly) for being Sally Steiner my freshman year and being called “Sally.” First nursing experiences at St. Joseph’s Hospital.
3. Take advantage of all learning opportunities offered to you at CSC. Grow in your confidence as a woman and count your blessing for being at CSC.
4. Who knows.
Sheila Quinn Ham
Retired
I am retired and fulfilling my dream of spending time with our grandchildren (Courtney, four years, and James, 14 months). I enjoy gardening but am recently challenged to figure out how to garden in two states—Minnesota and Texas. Retirement has given us the opportunity to enjoy family and friends in both states as well as the best of two climates … winters at home in Texas and summers at the farm and lake in Minnesota. We consider ourselves very fortunate! We traveled to San Miguel, Mexico, for a wonderful vacation a few years back. Last year we celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary with a trip to Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama. We toured many of the plantations of the South which are beautifully restored, vary in style and charm, and are full of interesting history. A trip to Ireland is on my wish list.
A favorite memory of mine is my senior year living in Fontbonne Hall. Mary, Ellie, Char, Margee, Betty, Shelly, Marge, and I were some of the lucky senior resident students allowed to live in those charming rooms with fireplaces and exceptional privacy. Our friendships deepened that year. And there are some fun stories from those days!
Cherish your days at St. Catherine’s. They will be some of your best!
I have no secrets, but I did find out last year that I can still drive a tractor.
Sharon Reasner Mullally
Weight Watchers, Leader
First of all, John and I are so very proud of our four lovely daughters, all professionals, who, along with their husbands, have given us five grandchildren, all bright and healthy, and many family memories. “Travel” has been at the top of every list I’ve ever made and, I must say, the company I’ve kept on any of my sojourns has been the highlight of each and every one. I’ve traveled with my husband, my mother, daughters, sisters, groups of friends, and choirs, and have seen many parts of the USA, as well as Ireland, Scotland, Iceland, China, Spain and Italy. This summer, we head to Alaska. The highlight of the past five years was the trip I took with the Archdiocesan Choir to Rome in early December 2004. We sang for the Papal Mass commemorating the 150th Anniversary of the Proclamation of the Immaculate Conception, never knowing, of course, that it would be one of the last public masses Pope John Paul II would ever celebrate. It made a great impression on me then, but I’m even more grateful for the opportunity and the timing of that trip. Now we have to go back to sing for Pope Benedict XVI!!!
Life in Fontbonne Hall as a senior with the best of friends. Anything to do with Mabel Frey.
You will always benefit from the positive responses you make concerning your education. Some of the decisions may be difficult, but quitting is NEVER the answer.
Because I have a disease called “alopecia,” I have worn a wig for the past 15 years.
Barbara Reichel Mattingly
MA, 1965, Yale University
Retired 12/04 ESL Program, University of North Carolina/Charlotte
I’ve recently retired after teaching and coordinating the ESL program at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte for 25 years. I hope to travel a lot in the coming years while still working in my field as a volunteer with Hispanic students in the Charlotte public schools. We also plan to visit our children, a 35-year-old son, a math professor at Duke University in Durham, NC, and a 32-year-old daughter working in development at the World Bank in Washington, D.C. My biggest dream? To have a grandchild or two.
There are too many to single out one.
When you choose your profession be sure that you are truly passionate about doing what it entails. This passion will make you excited to get up for work each morning—the greatest gift that you can give yourself.
Jeannine Schnell Hoffbeck
Retired
Moved to a twin home after 42 years in our home. Traveled a lot, especially bus tour to Canada, Nova Scotia, and Arizona. We also flew to Denmark and visited Norway and Sweden.
The Maypole Dance and Dolphin Shows.
Appreciate and utilize the wonderful teachers and facilities.
Our newest grandson was born on March 23rd, the same day as my husband, my son and daughter’s birthdays—three generations sharing their birthday.
Mary Helen Senglaub Leary
McDonald’s Corporation, Manager – Customer Service
On the edge of retirement—as soon as they find a replacement for me and I can begin my own business as a speaker and coach on customer service. For the last six years, I have been speaking in a nine-state area for McDonald’s, teaching our managers how to handle difficult customers. In 2003, I was awarded the prestigious President’s Award, which goes to the top 1% of the worldwide corporate employees. Since then, I have expanded my teaching and coaching presentations with McDonald’s and, in April 2005, spoke to an international convention of consumer affairs executives in Florida. I am ready to write my book as soon as I train a replacement and can set up my laptop on my deck. My four grandchildren think they will see me more often and not just at the airport as I come and go. I hope so, too!
I used to love the spring festival on May Day with all the music and art and drama featuring our teachers and their students. Does anyone else remember the May Pole?
Be as open as you can to all the school has to offer. We all pick a major but chances are you will not stay in that field all your life, so sample everything. Education is never lost.
I wrote a book as a ghost writer about Minneapolis Moline tractors. I know way too much about farm implements.
Sandra Swenson Murphy
Retiring from my position in the College’s development office was a major transition four years ago. I have found that I miss work: reaching goals, having deadlines, and staff meetings. I truly do! Now is rich, though. We were given grandchildren to fall in love with and we love going to Europe twice a year.
Sitting in the Smoker enjoying Pall Malls and black coffee. I seemed to not have a care in the world. Friendships are the best part, as always, for me.
Keep in mind that you are privileged to be part of a school that confirms and uplifts mind, body, and soul. Try not to neglect “me” at the expense of the other. Be grateful you are a woman so you can get an undergraduate degree from CSC.
I wish I had a PhD in philosophy, mathematics, literature, and physics!
Sherry Theisen Bias
Adult Education at University of Wisconsin, Madison, Alfred Adler and Many Colleges
Lead Teacher and Reading Teacher, Knowledge Learning Corporation
Everything to do with children. I’m winding down to retirement and teaching less but enjoying it more. Grandchildren!!
Remember the teas and special guests.
Love to learn as much as you can for you will use it all in a lifetime.
There is nothing much to know about me. I’ve had a wonderful life of many happy experiences and lots of challenges.
Therese Travis Kujawa
Retired/Consulting as Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Retired but continue to work a little in the field of clinical social work. My husband and I bought the cabin that was part of my family when I was growing up. It is a wonderful retreat for us, our family and friends, yet I will leave it to travel anytime, anywhere.
The many nights my boarder friends put a roof over my head when we had late night play practice. Almost any memory of Mabel Frey has a story connected with it, as does every play; and every story is a favorite.
Take time to enjoy what you are doing. Explore areas outside your own field of study. Make friends for a lifetime.
Downhill skiing and team tennis are so much fun—just hope my body holds out as long as my will to play does.
Margaret Walsh Fellenz
On a journey! Dick and I decided to move full time to our second home in Vermont while we’re still vital enough to get involved in a new community, church, etc. We completed the move in September and are now closer to the seven grandkids in New England. Enjoy Florida and Arizona for escaping some of the cold.
Sister Kevin catching Sheila Quinn running across the hall in “baby doll” pajamas and yelling, “Sheila Quinn, you’re tempting men and angels!” Of course, this was “after hours” when she darted across the third floor.
Enjoy!
I’m a “friend of Bill W’s”!
Mary K. Zirbes, OSF
MA, Applied Theology, Berkley Theological Union, California
Retired
Completed 10 years developing the Associate Relationship for the Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls, Minnesota. I am returning to my life desire to be a watercolorist. I love my Wise Women discussion/reflection group.
English classes with Sister Mary William Brady, CSJ—English and American literature. Analysis of current events based on Catholic social teaching.
How I would love to go back to St. Catherine’s and learn more! Learn all you can but most of all learn to think critically about life’s experiences. Nothing gives greater satisfaction than a life of love and compassion.
Very few things delight me more than reading a good book or listening to healing music.
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COLLEGE OF ST. CATHERINE
Class of 1965
Linda Andersen Jessen
Dorsey & Whitney LLP, Legal Administrative Assistant
The births of my two grandchildren, Zoe and Max. They give me great joy. Have also enjoyed celebrating our 60th birthdays on a trip to Door County with my Katie friends, attending the “Prairie Home Companion” broadcast at CSC with three generations of CSC-educated King women relatives, and attending reunions with my newly discovered high school classmates from Augsburg, Germany.
Playing bridge in the Smoker with my friends.
Have fun, experiment, and search for what gives you joy.
The first thing I ever wanted to be was a priest.
Mary Sue Best Plocher
Retired about three years ago. I have two daughters, two grandchildren. My husband and I travel a lot. Some of the more of the most interesting places were China and Tibet.
The great friends I made at St. Kate’s. I got a wonderful education and had so much fun while doing it!!
Cherish your time there. Study hard...play hard!!
Jacqueline Christenson
East Central Independent School District, Coordinator Bilingual/ESL and Public Information Officer
Happy, comfortable, concerned about the threat to public education.
Friends, mind-expanding philosophy and humanities, talent-building art and Spanish, painting the Dew Drop on a colorful autumn day, and sculpting the lion in the winter snow.
Appreciate the opportunity to focus on your studies without distractions and to debate/explore major issues.
My classmates don’t know that I miss them.
Patricia (Patty) A. Connelly
Nurse Practitioner, College of St. Catherine. MS, University of Wisconsin
Nurse Practitioner, Park Nicollet Clinic
I am completing a 40-year career in nursing. I have traveled all over the world. Now I plan to return to CSC to take classes in economics and social justice.
The wonderful friendships.
Be prepared for anything.
Mary Diercks Laing
Real Estate Broker, Loveland
Our first grandchild arrived, with two more expected in September. Virgil retired from Hewlett Packard and is working with me as the marketing director of our real estate sales team.
Popcorn after “lights out.”
Get a broad education.
No secrets remain!
Helen Dixson Parnell
MA, University of Wisconsin, 1966, MEd, University of Maine, 1978
I have been retired from the Augusta Schools for two years. I travel on the East and West Coasts, Florida, and until my mother’s death, to Wisconsin. I am currently acting in a feature film slated for the film festival circuit and hopefully the big screen. My retirement “hobby” is acting in films, commercials, and voice-overs. A big highlight has been my involvement in the filming of “Empire Falls” right here in my hometown and surrounding area. You may see me come out of the church with Father Mark. I also did a lot of walk-bys, drive-by scenes in my burgundy pick-up, etc. It was a great experience being in a film with Paul Newman and the whole cast.
My favorite memories are of friendships and working on plays, the TV panel series, and late night talks.
Study hard, play hard, know that you can and will realize your dreams. Aim high
4. That’s a tough one. I love acting. I enjoy close family, friends, my cats, my grown-up foster children, and FOOTBALL. I am a 30-year cancer survivor and very healthy.
Kathleen (Tookie) Donahue Werthmann
Retired, Manager of Information and Government Relations
Recently retired and so am enjoying precious new-found time with dear family and friends. How fun to have lots of time to travel, take college courses, and do all the volunteer work to hopefully help others. What a joy!
Magnificent, talented, and wonderful friends with a sense of humor who were determined to have a positive influence on their community and family.
Give it all you’ve got! Get as involved as possible. Establish lifelong friendships, as it will give you great strength and joy as long as you are on this earth!
I was on the “Price is Right” TV show and overbid everything and received a vacuum cleaner as a consolation prize and I made sure not to kiss Bob Barker!
Louise Eidsmoe
MA, Industrial Relations
Grant and Contract Manager, A.H. Wilder Foundation
Births of grandchildren. Marriages of children. Travel to Guatemala to learn Spanish.
2.Whitby Hall discussions with Sister Karen Kennelly.
Find your interests and follow them.
Patricia Gangl Dolan
MA, 1994, Chestnut Hill College.
Teacher in Graduate School, Georgian Court University
While I thought I’d be an artist, my life has placed me in positions of teaching, mentoring, and spiritual direction. I love teaching in grad school—Depatment of Holistic Health. Most of the students are middle-aged or above, returning to school for accreditation in something more meaningful to them at this point in their life. I am also an artist, working primarily with fibers, inks, paints, and sewing. My work has become more abstract in appearance as I have matured, but there are many elements of spirituality that weave throughout each piece. Thus my dreams of becoming an artist have become manifest, although it would be even better if I could sell more of my work! Travel-wise, I haven’t done nearly enough of it! Frank is not particularly fond of traveling, while I crave it! Usually, we visit relatives and create “vacations” out of those visits. Our son and his family live in rural Vermont and our daughter and her husband teach at Penn State, in rural PA, so we do have the pleasures of rural, mountain life several times per year. Our only trip of note was in 1996 visiting Ireland where each of us has ancestral roots.
My memories all blend together like a tapestry rippling in the wind … I often recall walking home down the hill leading out to Cleveland and Niles Avenues. Late afternoons in winter, I remember telling myself never to forget the beauty of the setting sun behind the naked trees ... and I have never forgotten the view or how I felt when lost in the beauty of the sunset … Of course, I remember my friends, art classes, and the library where I completed my student service requirements. And I remember the joy on campus; the sense that life is GOOD and we can make positive changes with our choices and our lives.
Take every advantage that you can of the educational opportunities offered there. The faculty are among the best, the programs are well designed, the student body is full of people you can enjoy and learn from. Take more credits than the bare minimum because now is the time to learn all you can—the cost is the least it will probably ever be. And study. Learn what you are given. You will find that everything serves a purpose somewhere down the line in your life.
I’ve been away for so long that few, if any, of my classmates know much about me anymore. They will know that I still do art! Other than that...ahhhhhhhhhhh. That my living room in our townhouse is my studio—who needs a living room anyway? We have a small family room and I told Frank when we moved that I would claim the largest room for my studio. No one believed I would do it, but as you enter my front door, you step into my art studio!
Mary Heywood Kubiak
MSW, 1987, University of Minnesota
Retired School Social Worker, St. Paul Public Schools
I’m finding this time of life the best of all! Spending time with family, especially our two grandchildren, a two-year-old in Colorado and an eight-month-old in St. Paul, is more fun than I ever imagined. My husband and I are both retired. The gifts of time and good health open up new horizons with more opportunities for traveling, reading, gardening, meditating, being politically active, and staying in touch with friends.
Mary Hubona Skoglund
JD, 1980, Northern Illinois University
Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, State of Illinois, Attorney
Granddaughter Madeline got a baby brother, Sean, on 2/2/2000. Son, Andrew, returned from Colorado to live in Chicago, 2/4/05 (after 22 years). Son, Paul, joined Digital River, Eden Prairie, MN, and became a world treasurer. Bought a brand new condo, 2/2/01.
Dorm life on Derham 3rd where I met nine lifelong friends; Mass at the chapel on Sunday mornings wearing cap and gown; Hootenanny; walking to Highland Park for Banana Cream Pie at Cecil’s Deli and pizza at Carboni’s
Seize and live everyday to the fullest; avail yourself of every cultural, social, educational, and religious opportunity offered, which are many at CSC; cling to moral and ethical values taught to stay the course in the secular world; think for yourself—CSC has prepared you.
How much I love them and St. Catherine’s.
Mary Johnson Corcoran
MS, Curriculum and Instruction
Retired Elementary Teacher
My work on family genealogy has uncovered many relatives in the U.S. and abroad that I contacted through email and letters and I would hope to visit in the future.
Casual clothes under our caps and gowns at daily Mass.
Everything you are able to study will enhance your opportunities in the future years. My German major has enabled me to correspond with my European relatives.
My family had a river birch planted near the Dew Drop in honor of my father, Donald Duane Johnson, a POW in WWII who kept a diary (copy in the MN History Center)
Jeanette R. Kraemer
PhD, 1974, University of Minnesota. MA, 1968, Indiana University-Bloomington
Marquette University, French Professor
I am still teaching and training second language teachers. I have eleven grandchildren that keep me busy when I am not working. I am still traveling to places of interest when finances permit. I have been at Marquette University for 37 years and enjoyed it all.
The beauty of the campus.
Learn how to fulfill your goals and dreams. Maintain high standards for academic achievement. Help bring peace and justice to the world.
My second career might be exercise fitness.
Karen Kramer Price
MA, Education, 2000, Marygrove College
Retired
I am one year into retirement and am loving every minute of it. We have been blessed with good health, wonderful family, and opportunities to travel. My goal is to be a wonderful grandmother very soon.
Hanging out with my friends in the dorm and being a part of homecoming at St. Thomas.
Take advantage of everything you can!
Just to be daring, I once swam topless in the Adriatic Sea (however, I was so far out no one else knew but the fish!)
Connie A. Krautkremer
Maryknoll Sisters Congregation, General Secretary
In January 2003, after working in Tanzania for 30 years, I returned to the U.S.A. to begin a six-year term on the leadership team of the Maryknoll Sisters. I travel a lot, do administrative tasks aplenty, and stay grounded through walks.
Doing “lay mission” work in Alabama and Mississippi during voter registration years in the early 1960s – a program made possible by CSC.
I do Chi Qong and dream work. Yes, I am a Maryknoll sister!
Madonna Kucera Dahl
MAEd, Hamline University, 2000
ESL Teacher, Kindergarten through 5th Grade, Washburn Elementary, Bloomington
I became a grandmother for the first time on April 28, 2005, upon the birth of a grandson, Jacob Thomas Lundquist. My anticipated date for retirement from full-time teaching is June 2006—upon reaching the “Rule of 90!” Looking forward to doing some volunteer overseas teaching excursions in retirement years.
The empowering environment of excellent staff, stimulating classes, inspiring student friendships, and enjoyable independence of dormitory living—nurturing the development of leadership skills.
Take advantage of the variety of classes offering diverse perspectives on world issues; broaden multicultural friendship circles, and seek travel opportunities to experience life to the fullest in our global world!
After teaching for 40 years at various K-12 levels and locations, I am completing my teaching career at Washburn Elementary School in Bloomington, MN—the same school where I did my CSC student teaching in the fall of 1964.
Joan Kuzma Costello
A.M. English, 1966, University of Chicago. Ph.D. English, 1989, Saint Louis University.
Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs, Inver Hills Community College
I have always found my life exciting, surprising, and fulfilling. I love my current position and I find working at a community college challenging and rewarding. My most eye-opening experience of the last five years was my trip to China as part of the Dakota County Futures delegation.
Being shepherded on the path to graduate school by Sister Helen Margaret.
Enjoy and work hard in every class; it is amazing how over the years it all becomes relevant. And dream big; St. Catherine’s graduates have wonderful potential to “lead and influence.”
I will be attending the Institute for Educational Management at Harvard University this summer.
Catherine Lang Fee
MD, 1974, University of Minnesota
Retired Physician, Emergency/Internal Medicine
I retired in 2004. Widowed now for over six years. I look forward to seeing my three children obtain their degrees and fulfill their dreams as their father and I had envisioned.
November 22, 1963, when President Kennedy was assassinated. After hearing the news we were all asked to go to the Chapel for a prayer service—not a “favorite” memory, but surely a lasting one.
Study abroad if at all possible. Take J-Term or summer courses to “spread out” your credits. From the first semester, anticipate your academic schedule at least one year ahead. Stay healthy!
I believe I am the youngest member of our class.
Mary Yolanda Latessa, SSND
Thank you for the mail you are sending me for the Centennial Reunion. I am not able to attend any activity because I will be out of town and not available.
Frances LeDuc Laufle
Adult/Geriatric Nurse Practitioner, 1979, University of Minnesota. MS, Public Health, 1996, University of Minnesota
Healthpartners, Program Manager-Geriatric Services
I am planning for retirement and looking forward to new opportunities to serve. Our first trip to Europe in 2001 was great. I hope to return again.
Going to Mass in the Chapel, convocations in Jeanne D’Arc in black gowns, gathering in the “Smokers.”
Remain true to your Catholic or Christian faith, “give back” in service to your community and the world—it is a hallmark of St. Catherine’s, seize the opportunity to be a leader in these endeavors.
I have 10 grandchildren and just bought my first convertible car.
Rosalie Maggio
Self-Employed
Five years ago, our whole family moved (one by one) to Southern California—the first time in years we’ve all been in the same time zone. I discovered I was born to live in the mountains! I grow roses and write screenplays for entertainment. New book out this spring: The Art of Talking to Anyone. Children’s story in “Highlights for Children”—so still enjoying words. I wish I could be there! Love to you all!
Rosemary Martin
Retired, Art Teacher
Sorry I can’t be there. Thank you and best wishes for your efforts for this reunion.
Donna Mayotte
Lutheran Social Service, Psychologist/Therapist
Although I am probably at the pinnacle of my career, my learning curve is still intriguingly high—my work is rich in experience. However, I feel I have many travels ahead.
Father Daniel Berrigan speaking.
Don’t marry until you’re 30; work, travel and live alone until you enjoy it. Start an IRA.
I have been accused of reinventing myself and I’m not as conventional as I look.
Janet Mitchell Dudrey
Retired
I achieved retirement status last summer after my job position was eliminated at Regions Hospital. We were living on a houseboat on the Mississippi River but decided last fall to sell it and move on land. We selected a place where all the amenities are provided. We love going to “Menards” and saying we “don't need that any more.”. Plan to spend more time with my grandchildren and my husband.
I have a lot of memories of St. Catherine’s. Some of my favorites have to do with the work crew in the kitchen and dish room. It was enjoyable working with Sister Adrianna. I got a lot of “hazing experiences my freshman year as my sister, who was a senior, and her friends enjoyed terrorizing me.
I would advise anyone at St. Catherine’s to have fun and to take in all you that is offered ... concerts, plays, late night dorm parties, the scenery, smells as well as the beauty of the campus. It’s a great place to get an education and meet people from all walks of life.
I met my husband on a blind date 39 years ago. We went together for six weeks. He spent two of those weeks in Hartford, Conn., going to school for his job. He proposed over the phone. I got the marriage license, arranged for witnesses, met the plane, and we were married in the Courthouse in Minneapolis. We’ve done lots of exciting things together and I’m glad he’s by my side as we go on with our lives.
Kathleen Mullen Ryan
MA, Education, 1995, University of St. Thomas
Licensed School Nurse-Early Childhood Special Education Birth to Five, Minneapolis Public Schools
I am living my dream. I married Mike 37 years ago, and God help us, we’re still together and we have seven incredible kids, and now six grandchildren. Our youngest daughter just graduated from St. Kate’s in December and has a job. We are as broke as ever. We traveled to China over spring break to see the homeland of our new granddaughter. I just won a sabbatical to study universal early childhood education in Ireland, England, and Italy in the fall. Mike and I will travel, study and relax, and hopefully bring back valuable information to give to our legislatures and citizens about the value of early learning for all.
The Smoker, not the smoke, but the friendship, and laughter in this room. A place for the dayhops especially to hang out.
Give it your all. There is so much to learn and do, and St. Kate’s has opportunity written all over it.
Mary Musich
MS, 1973, St. Cloud State University
Retired
Loving retirement, traveling all over the world, golfing, and reading.
On May Day, taking a ride down the enclosed Derham Hall metal fire escape.
Get as much as you can out of your college years and give yourself the opportunity to have new experiences. As a women’s college, St. Catherine’s is able to give you some unique opportunities in self-development.
I didn’t know that the life of a retired person could be so fulfilling and exciting.
Marjana Nys Callery
PhD Human Resource Development, 2001, University of Minnesota
Retired
Newly retired—looking for volunteer activities; continue to do dog sports (agility, obedience) with my schnauzers; visit family frequently; enjoy grandkids.
The day I could stop wearing my freshman beanie.
Work hard for that degree—put boys low on your list of priorities.
I have four grandchildren—three with master’s degrees and one with her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree.
Elise O'Meara Nooney
Sister Adrianna, student work, roommates, and dorm living. Feeling so “at home.”
I ran an energetic campaign for the state Senate in 2004.
Mary Poe Bissonette
MS, Family and Human Development, Utah State, 1992
Part-time Substitute Teacher
Quit my full-time job as director of the Box Elder Family Support Center to live in Germany while my husband worked as a senior scholar for the Fulbright Kommissions in Germany. I’m not retired. I work part-time as a substitute teacher in an elementary school, enjoy traveling, and being with family and friends.
Overall supportive environment.
You are being prepared for life in ways you wouldn’t anticipate.
a. I ran, again, for the Utah House of Representatives in 2000. I lost again. Possibly if I were a man, non-Mormon, and a Rebublican, my chances would be better … my husband jokingly says he’ll divorce me if I turn Republican.
b. I was flying from Cypress to Rome on 9/11.
Rita Quigley
MSW, University of Minnesota, 1973
I have completed 18 years of hospice home care for North Memorial Hospice in Robbinsdale, and have begun working for the Hawthorne Dominicans in their free cancer home. Still full-time social work but a blessed transitional job to retirement: low stress and no paperwork. Travel always means the North Shore of Lake Superior, but extends to Greece, Tuscany, Galapagos, Machu Picchu, and Mt. Rushmore.
Take advantage of the library, cultivate relationships with the wise women on campus, and cherish the diversity among your classmates. You’ll be the richer for time and energy spent in all three areas.
I left the CSJ community in 1974 (Sister Sheila Mary in 1965) and now, 30 years later, I’ve been welcomed back to my roots as a CSJ consociate member.
M. Evangeline Reuter, OSB
MA Community Psychology, St Cloud State University
Retired
I have had to retire due to health disabilities. I live with 100 other religious sisters who are preparing for their final journeys. It has been good to learn to “let go!”
The pond; walks in the little “woods.” I was a day student. Public health rotation was the most eye-opening for me.
Live your student life to the fullest—make friends and keep in touch. Get to know the professors as persons.
I love to blow bubbles—it is great with children, but also with adults and just for myself. The bigger the better.
Patricia Scanlan Gromak
MS, Psychology, 1984
Assistant Professor, Education Coordinator, Director of Occupational Therapy, Munroe-Meyer Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center
Considering retirement—enjoying the curiosity and amazing growth and development in my three-year-old identical twin granddaughters. Planning a genealogy trip to Ireland soon.
Dewdrop, beanies, best friends meeting during freshman orientation. My anatomy teacher (Sister Teresita) and her stories and simulations for teaching. Sister Miriam Joseph’s chuckle. Azehl Gah’s weaving instruction; Peter Lupori pottery whiz!
Live each moment!
I’m a computer freak, love lattes, did a “canopy tour” in the Tikal Forest of Guatemala, and enjoy crafting homemade cards.
Bernadette Segner Joos
AA Segner Insurance Agency, Owner/Insurance Agent
Son married (4-04), daughter UNC-Chapel Hill graduate (5-05), married 36 years. Still working and still enjoying life.
The “friendly” political discussions with classmate Mary Coughlin (Mary was a Young Republican and I was a Young Democrat). I painted a banner (a CSC bedsheet) when we attended a Eugene McCarthy for President (rally) at U of M (Coffman Union).
Enjoy your college years—the core of your life.
Diane Shiely Simmons
Lyndale Elementary School, Media Specialist
My husband and I have four grown children and three grandchildren. We are active in our church, St. Rose of Lima. I am the media specialist at Lyndale Elementary in Minneapolis and really love my job.
Working in the CSC library for three years.
Study hard; all grades count from the very beginning.
Ruth Skudlarek Mestnik
MS, 1992, St. Mary’s College.
Human Services Supervisor, County of Stearns.
I’m on the verge of retirement and I look forward to that new adventure. Bob and I love to travel and we are Husky Hockey enthusiasts. Bob and I have three children and five grandchildren who bring us a great deal of joy and fun. I dream of losing the demands of a job to better enjoy family, friends, travel, bridge, golf and new adventures.
My best memories of St. Kate’s have to do with camaraderie with my classmates. Many of these memories have to do with rule breaking—now what does that say about me? I remember the night Mary V. came in late, our senior year when our housemother was sent home early and the nuns did a spot check for liquor consumption, smoking in the bathroom, late night sessions in the luggage store room, and rearranging people’s rooms when they were out for the evening. These are great memories as well as the beauty of the campus and glorious sounds of the Liturgical Choir.
Enjoy your time, enjoy your classmates, learn to critically think and to question the status quo—come to know that you are a wonderful woman and can become an agent of growth and change. Whether your ministry will be in your family or in your professional life, your education, especially in the liberal arts, will serve you well. I know that saying I’m a graduate of the College of St. Catherine has opened doors for me professionally and in my post-graduate work. Enjoy!!!
Most of my classmates don’t know that I've finally been able to “contemplate a leaf.” Remember that assignment from metaphysics? And most of my classmates don’t know that I would like to paint with watercolors. I intend to do that in my retirement.
Rosemary Stemper Richard
Masters Education, 1995, University of Louisville, Rank 1, University of Louisville
Guidance Counselor, Sacred Heart Academy
1.Love my job but looking forward to retirement, spending time with grandchild, and travel in four years. Sorry I will miss the reunion as I will be in Hawaii.
Dorm life.
Enjoy every minute—make lifelong friends.
4. I have an educational girl-to-girl mentoring program that I would like to offer to any St. Kate’s grad who works with teenage girls. Sells for $345—will give to any Katie for the price of delivery. For more information contact me at 502-897-65097 (w) or 502-244-4678 (h) or richard@sacredheartacad.com
Carol Stromwall Sallee
Private Duty Nurse, Self Employed
Last of three children has finished college. Fixing up home. This summer, traveling to China to visit oldest child who has been working there for three years.
Playing touch football with Babs Locker and friends on campus. Taking our train trip to Bab’s house in Iowa. Sitting by the Dew Drop. Getting to know Father Freeman and listening to the jazz group play. Stopping in at the Chapel between classes. Learning synchronized swimming.
If you don’t understand, ask you instructor to explain it to you again or in another way, after class if necessary.
Eileen Meisler Neff typed up many of my term papers for me because I was such a slow typist.
Sandra Sullivan Krakowski
MA Education, 1977, San Jose State University
Elementary School Principal, Santa Clara Unified School District
I’m in the midst of another transition. I’ve moved from mother to grandmother, teacher to principal, wife to widow, and now worker to retiree in the past seven years. I’ve loved my job, but am ready for new adventures. My list of “Things To Do” for retirement is very long and still growing; it ranges from cruising the Greek Isles to going to bed and getting up when I want to! June 30th, 2005, is the official retirement date. I have four grandchildren who are the loves of my life right now—two in Colorado and two in Virginia. I spend a lot of time on planes! My husband Dan (College of St Thomas, 1965) died in May 2003. I miss him every day; he is a big part of my St Kate’s memories! We enjoyed a wealth of friends and family who continue to bring love and laughter to my life! I know I have been very fortunate.
Hours in the Smoker, followed closely by great classes, especially those with questioning—Mr. Kingman, Father Morieb . . . I loved every minute (just about!) of my four years!
Learn all you can, and open your mind to new ways of seeing the world! Take the best of what you know, and continue to grow—forever!
(I’m a blabbermouth—they probably know everything!) Let’s see . . . Perhaps that I’m conventional in how I live, yet unconventional in how I think and have experienced the world (Northern California does that!).
Marjorie Swanson Converse
University Book Store
Thinking of retirement, starting to travel when not connected to work. Enjoying seeing children continue on their paths in life and continue spoiling grandchildren.
The quiet walks on the beautiful grounds and the fun and frustrations of dorm life. I now look back and remember the good advice I received about ways to handle things that come up in life.
Take or find time to enjoy the staff, campus, and the people your meet.
I am not really the quiet person that I appeared to be. I like the variety of the people and the variety of ideas that surround me.
Marilyn Van Echteren Zopp
MA., Math, 1968, University of Illinois. Ed.D, Curriculum and Instruction, 1999, Northern Illinois University
Math Instructor /Department Chair of The College Experience. McHenry County College. Crystal Lake, IL
Although I am within five years of retirement, I have taken on a new challenge. For the past 10 years I have been closely involved with a new program for our campus—The College Experience. It is a program for new students. Just a few weeks ago I was appointed the department chairman for this program and we are ready (at least I hope we are) to begin with 25 sections of MCC 101 next fall. My husband, Marty, and I have traveled to many wonderful places both here in the United States and outside the country. Our favorite trips were to the Panama Canal and Ireland. We have three wonderful children and three beautiful grandchildren and try to see all of them as frequently as possible. Retirement will give us more time for travel and visiting with family.
I lived in Caecilian Hall for two years and I have fond memories of the large Christmas tree in the stairwell and the carolers coming to the dorm to sing for us.
Enjoy your time at St. Catherine’s— it is a wonderful place to be! Take advantage of the many opportunities offered by this wonderful institution of higher learning.
Now that I have a new hip and a repaired heart valve (my children call me the “bionic woman”) I participate each year in a 5K walk/run. It is my goal each year to move up in the standings. The first year I was the last walker to cross the finish line—but I did finish!
Mary Vukelich Skenzich
Retired
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COLLEGE OF ST. CATHERINE
Class of 1970
Margaret (Peg) Baltes Martin
Fairview Southdale Hospital, Registered Nurse
I am working as an RN in the same hospital I started at 35 years ago. I am now an outpatient I.V. nurse. I still love my job and love being a nurse and do not see retirement in the near future—though I could retire right now and get my pension! I’ve always had the dream to travel to Ireland and will finally fulfill that dream at the end of July. I am going on a tour with my sister (class of 1964)—led by another Katie, Joni Delaney O’Connell (saw the ad in our alumnae newsletter!).
My favorite memory was and always will be the beauty and the peacefulness of the campus. That is one of the reasons I came to school here and a reason I periodically come back to just look around, walk around, and be at peace with the beauty. Always changing—but still the same!
Be proud of where you are as a student—it is a rare and exceptional place to be and an honor to say you are a graduate of St Kate’s. An honor you will still be proud of in 35 years—as I am!
I wish I’d had the opportunity to live on campus instead of being a “day hop!”
Catherine Clifford Brennan
MA, University of St. Thomas, 1980
I continue to be an occupational therapy consultant working with insurance companies reviewing therapy cases. We traveled to Spain last year to visit our daughter who was studying there.
Learning and working with Sister Miriam Joseph (Genevieve Cummings). She was a special mentor in my life then and throughout my career.
Absorb all you can and connect with other students who have much to share!
I have been playing golf for 25 years and still can’t break 100!!
M. Eileen Conlin
I worked for Ramsey County, Minnesota, for 30 years. I retired December 31, 2004.
My hobby is quilting. I like to travel.
I have gone by the name Eileen since 1970.
Mary Daleiden Bradley
Tax Accountant, John K. Flaherty and Associates
Looking forward to retiring but not for a few more years.
Bridge nights with good friends. Lots of long “heart to heart” talks.
Don’t be afraid to take risks—especially when your instincts lead you in one direction.
The South Beach Diet is working for me!
Margot B. Fehrenbacher
MS, Architecture, University of Minnesota, CALA.
Registered Architect / Certified Interior Designer, St. Paul Planning and Economic Development.
I’ve started my own residential architecture / interior design business in 2003—my second job. And I’m remodeling my own kitchen right now.
Times with my St. Kate’s girl-pals.
It is never too late to follow your dreams. An architect mentor said to me, “Would you rather be 30? Or 30 and an architect?” At the time, 30 sounded very old but I became one anyway and absolutely love what I do!
I row on the river with a crew all summer. I was a Peace Corps volunteer in Brazil, 1974-1975. I lived and worked in Washington, D.C., as an architect in private practice for 10 years. I drive a Mazda Miata all winter with snow tires.
Nancy Frenz Grace
AALFA Family Clinic, Office Manager/Administrator
Renee Grev Sheehan
MS, Critical Care Nursing, 1981
Retired, RN and CDR. USNR, Nurse Corps
Self-Employed with Spouse, Own/Manage Apartment Buildings
I’m at a very comfortable point in my life. My husband and I have been married since 1976 and still enjoy a few dates each week at symphony or musical concerts, plays or musicals. Our youngest son is a junior in college; daughter is in a doctorate in P.T. program, and older son works at our family business of apartment building rentals. I’d love to travel more.
I enjoyed singing in the choir, both the rehearsals and liturgies, and have been singing in a concert choir most of my adult life. Class skits were fun at the time, but details escape my memory. The nursing teaching staff was very knowledgeable and helpful to us in that major.
Apply yourself diligently to get the most out of each class. Take the opportunities of travel or study abroad, or at least take classes at another campus to broaden your horizons. Consider CSC as just the beginning of a lifelong learning process
I got an AA degree in music in the mid-1980s and would love to take private piano lessons again; I belong to a 12-member piano ensemble group that plays piano renditions of major symphonic works. I’d like to play the cello in my reincarnated life!
Colleen Hand Welty
Maui Family Support Services, Program Manager – Healthy Families America
After 14 years as the branch director for the American Lung Association of Hawaii (Maui, Molokai and Lanai), I was ready for new challenges. At Maui Family Support Services, we work with high-risk families to prevent child abuse and neglect and enhance family functioning.
Take advantage of all the facilities (pool, gyms, library, etc.) and faculty to try new things, learn new skills.
That I have a tattoo!
Brenda Johnson Schaffer
Detroit Lakes Public Schools, Teacher
I am nearing retirement from the teaching profession and I look forward to spending more time with family and friends. I also hope that I will have more time to devote to my new passion: researching my father’s experience as a pilot in WWII. I have had the marvelous opportunity to fly in restored B-17 and B-24 bombers. I have also been able to “find” three WWII vets who flew with my father. I continue my search and hope to eventually meet fellow 8th Air Force history addicts in Sudbury, England, and Langford Lodge, Ireland.
Too many to focus on just one!
Treasure not only your educational experiences, but your college friendships. They are a special gift that will sustain you throughout your life.
I want to be downhill skiing when I’m 80!
Diane Johnson Schauer
Retired, R.N.
Retired for one year due to complications from rheumatoid arthritis.
The sing-a-longs in St. Joe’s—someone always had a guitar. Went to school at the height of 1960’s and became aware of social issues and my role.
Appreciate the history of St. Kate’s and what it has to offer—many wonderfully talented and strong women have passed through her gates.
I’m a huge Twins’ fan.
Marjorie Mathison Hance
MS in Education/Business
Chair, Business Administration Department; and Director of Corporate Relations, College of St. Catherine
Susan Norseng Lasoff
MS, 1974, University of Wisconsin-Stout
Self-Employed, Occupational Therapist
Self-employed and doing work I like to do.
Friday nights with friends at Bridgeman’s!
Enjoy and nurture your friendships!
That I almost majored in theatre!
Carole O'Byrne
MS, Nursing, University of Minnesota
Nurse Anesthetist, VAMC
Retired from the Navy Reserve after 31 years. Still working full time as an anesthetist, but have more time to enjoy reading and bike riding. Anticipating retirement sometime in the next five years.
Late evening treats (sundaes from Bridgeman’s or popcorn) enjoyed in Whitby when it was suppose to be “lights out.”
Cultivate the friends you make at CSC and you will be fortunate enough to enjoy life-long associations.
I think they know everything.
Mary Anne O'Keefe
Recreation Center Director (Wilder), City of St. Paul
After 33 years of public employment, I have worked with business associations, booster clubs, and volunteer coaches on community festivals, special events, and athletic leagues.
Swimming in the old pool in Fontbonne and rushing outside in the winter only to have my hair freeze as I walked near the leafed oak trees by the old bookstore.
Be happy. Don’t worry. Enjoy every minute of your life. Believe in yourself and treasure friendships and good health. Work with children—they will keep you young.
I just completed a six-month intense community leadership program offered by the Wilder Foundation.
Elizabeth Pawlitschek Meyer
MA, 1976, University of Minnesota, PHD, 1986, University of Minnesota
Former Secondary School Principal
My life is fuller than it has ever been. I spend my time entertaining friends at my Florida home on the Gulf of Mexico, reading books by the pool, traveling, visiting with my former stepchildren, collecting art, decorating, and pursuing spiritual growth with my CWG group. I am blessed to have a committed relationship of five years with a man who enjoys doing all these things with me.
There are so many: making friends, dances at STC and MAC, the beautiful autumn colors on campus, dorm life, philosophy classes with Mr. Troy, riverbanking, riding the big purple bus to STC for classes.
Live on campus if you can. It’s fun, convenient, and provides a social experience that can’t be beat! Get involved in student life. Take advantage of the leadership opportunities at the college.
I’m a bit of a daredevil. At CSC that played out by climbing the water tower and attempting to climb the Chapel’s bell tower. Since then, I have bungee jumped in New Zealand, gone diving on the Great Barrier Reef, motorcycled to the top of Pike’s Peak, paraglided off a mountaintop, and gone hot air ballooning in Albuquerque. During the reunion I will be on an Alaskan adventure. Hi to all.
Mary Ann Sachs
JD, 1983, William Mitchell College of Law
Library Specialist, St. Paul Public Library
Nancy Stapleton Dvoracek
Executive Director, Minnesota Women of Today
Seeing my three children all graduate from college and now working toward their advanced degrees. I especially enjoy traveling—have been to Europe several times and also to El Salvador. Looking forward to a trip to Italy and Greece in the fall.
Dorm life and the friends I made, especially on second floor Derham and fourth floor Whitby. The fun we had after we were suppose to be in our rooms was the best.
Take advantage of every visiting speaker brought on campus, especially the ones that will teach you about yourself and the personal growth skills you will need outside the classroom. The St. Kate’s atmosphere offers so many opportunities besides the academics.
I have changed from a quiet college student to someone leading a statewide women’s service organization with over 5,000 members. Quite a step for an introverted student, but the atmosphere at St. Kate’s taught me many of the skills needed to stretch outside of myself.
Marjorie Weber Crea
MBC, 2000, University of St. Thomas.
Communications Officer, Achieve! Minneapolis.
Ann Williams Bussey
MA in Management, College of St. Scholastica, 1994
Vice-President Medical Staff Services, St. Mary’s Duluth Clinic Health System
Stepfather died March 26, 2003; mother, Kathleen Griffee Williams, (St. Mary’s Nursing School) died November 8, 2003; brother, Steve Williams, died April 16, 2004. New job in September 2001. Vice president of medical staff services for SMDC Health System. First grandchild born in November 2002.
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COLLEGE OF ST. CATHERINE
Class of 1975
Colleen Curran
Vice-President and Managing Counsel, American Express Financial Advisors
President, College of St. Catherine Alumnae Association
College of St. Catherine Trustee
Debra Barone Sheats
Master’s Public Health and Nutrition, University of Minnesota, 1977
Assistant Professor, Family, Consumer, and Nutritional Sciences, College of St. Catherine
I’m enjoying teaching full time at St. Kate’s in FCNS (formerly home economics), and raising my three children—Nathan, (15 years), Ryan (12 years), and Maggie (10 years).
Singing at guitar Masses in the Chapel. Late night popcorn parties with friends in the dorms.
Take advantage of the numerous opportunities to think critically, develop leadership skills, build lasting friendships with faculty and students, and view the world and its people with an open mind and heart.
I enjoy spending a leisurely afternoon fishing for walleye or northerns with my family.
Michelle Dube Meade
Ordination of husband, Ron, as a permanent deacon for the Diocese of Cleveland, 2002. Marriage of sons Christian (Heather) and Nicolas (Tanya).
Lunch breaks, study breaks, hanging out in Whitby kitchen with friends Joan, Shannon, and Donna (Class of 1975).
Stay true to your Catholic roots, doing everything for the glory of God.
I’m president/administrator of Guadalupe Bible College, a ministry of Presentation Ministry under Archbishop Pilarczyk of Cincinnati.
Mary Claire Dunlap-Rudeen
Occupational Therapist, Stillwater Schools
Children graduating from high school: Dan in 2002, and Emily in 2005.
Basket weaving in the bathtub and all of the OT group activities.
Take advantage of your years at St. Kate’s; live and learn about who you are in the supportive St. Kate’s community.
Nancy Fox Carlson
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, 1989
All About Children Pediatrics, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
My children are launched and enjoying their careers. I am very active with my dogs and have put both hunting and obedience titles on them. I travel as often as my schedule allows to dog shows. I show Labrador retrievers. I have been married for 23 years. I opened, with three MDs and two nurse practitioners, a small, family-oriented pediatric practice in Eden Prairie in 2000. It has been a great success. I hope to be able to retire and split my time between North Carolina and Minnesota. I have “fallen in love” with the Outer Banks. I cannot be with you this weekend as I am showing dogs in Beloit at the annual Winnebago Labrador Retriever Club. Have a great weekend.
Sunbathing on the roof of St. Joe’s. Lunches in the “Smoker” during senior year. Going to dinner in rollers and slippers.
Have fun early in life.
I am more successful that my professors or peers thought I could be. Common sense is a great asset to have, sometimes getting you further in life than book knowledge.
Sally Joyce Duran
MA, 1982, George Washington University, Washington, D.C.
Senior Vice President, Quality Improvement, George Washington University, Washington, D.C.
Traveling to Finland in 2004—my daughter, Andrea, made the United States Junior Women’s Team in Ultimate Frisbee. They took second place. Serving on the Board of Health for the state of Virginia.
Learn financial planning early.
I really enjoy tap dancing.
Tamara Kittelson-Aldred
M.S., 1981, University of Washington, Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapist, Self-Employed
As the mother of three I spent my time over the last 23 years balancing family responsibilities and joys, and part-time work as an OT. Our youngest daughter died in 2001; with the eldest in the Peace Corps and our second daughter in college, it is a new era. In the last year we started a non-profit foundation called Eleanore’s Project that aims to improve the quality of life for children with disabilities and their families in poor areas. It has taken us to Peru twice already and we are waiting to see what is next! Many of my dreams, goals, and most of my travel, revolve around Eleanore’s Project. It is a natural outgrowth of my work as an OT and the gift of our life with Eleanore. It often feels like I am just along for the ride!
The Dew Drop pond, and learning to cross-country ski in the woods.
Appreciate St. Kate’s for the wonderful place that it is! Take advantage of it well while you are there.
Here are three: I became Catholic in 1999. Our daughter, Julian, is a student at St. Kate’s. And I am one third of the way through a three-year training program for Spiritual Directors/Companions.
Judith Kosel Dunn
Freelance/Seasonal Jobs
I have been traveling internationally – have been on five of the six continents. Our goal is to see Antarctica. Have been doing some theatre. Helping with my six grandchildren, including triplets born in November.
Suzanne Krueger Bewley
Worked almost 23 years on the Orthopedic Neuroscience Unit at St. Cloud Hospital. Transferred to Inpatient Rehabilitation as a social worker in June 2004 . Strong interest in medical ethics. For two years I chaired the St. Cloud Hospital Ethics Committee. Married 30 years. Son, Jordan, is 23 and daughter, Brittany, is 19.
Spending time in the dorm (Stanton) with friends.
When I was in college all I did was study and work. I really regret not taking time to have fun and enjoy some of the extracurricular activities offered at CSC and St. Thomas. Take time to have fun. Four years goes very fast—the real world comes quicker than you think.
Mary Susan Kuth Skoien
Married for 25 years to Michael (Macalaster, 1973). Three children: Dave, Duke University 2005; Anna, Notre Dame, 2006; and Joe, Marquette University, 2009. Soon to be an empty nester—very grateful for family, friends, and travel.
Group dinners with the OTs, the nice girls from St. Mary’s.
College provides a safe environment to explore who you are and become the woman you will be. You live, work, study, and play with incredibly bright people 24 hours a day. May your memories be golden.
Deb O’Regan “encouraged” a number of St. Mary’s girls to go streaking at St. Thomas one spring evening as, “It would be something to tell our grandchildren.”
Mary Leshock Naab
After spending 20 years on the East Coast raising our three children, I am empty-nesting in Michigan, the land of my youth. Incredibly blessed, I am able to spend quality time with my parents in their retiring years. I’ve become the favorite aunt, babysitting weekends or weeks at a time for my brothers’ and sisters’ many children.
Wandering around Derham Hall at night … studying for spring finals at the Dew Drop … Powerpuff Football.
Take advantage of every opportunity offered … St. Kate’s is the perfect place to stretch your wings and expand your horizons … think outside your box! If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn’t change a thing!
Adrienne Menarik Guelker
Occupational Therapist, Integrated Home Care
2. Lots of friends
Mary Terese Miller Carlson
Will Complete CSC Masters of Arts in Organizational Leadership, December 2005
Associate Director, College of St. Catherine Alumnae Association
After working for more than 20 years in the newspaper and magazine publishing industry, I returned to St. Catherine’s in January 2002 to join the staff of the Alumnae Association. I have the pleasure of interacting with amazing and interesting alumnae every day. Reunion, chapter events, and alumnae admissions programs keep me busy. My long-held goal of completing St. Catherine’s Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership Program will be realized in December. Last month my husband, Andy, and I celebrated our 29th wedding anniversary and our daughter, Emily, graduated from St. Thomas with a degree in broadcast journalism. She’s determined to set high standards as a television reporter. Our son, Drew, will be a junior at the Academy of Holy Angels in the fall. I had a trip of a lifetime last spring when I met my daughter in London. From there we traveled to Paris and stayed in the same Left Bank hotel I had stayed in my senior year at St. Kate’s on an interim study abroad.
Celebrations with friends and family, i.e. Parent’s Weekend, Father-Daughter Dinner Dance, Commencement. Sunbathing on the roof of St. Joseph Hall in early spring. My twin sister, Terry, and I were roommates for three years. Our room and windowsill provided easy access to the “sundeck.”
Open yourself to learn, grow, and change so that you can discover who you are and what you can become. You will make lifelong friends here. Nourish and cherish those special relationships and shared memories.
For special occasions I have been known to do a wicked Mick Jagger imitation. There are photos to prove this.
Anne Palmquist Youakim
MAT, 2001, Rockford College
St. John the Baptist School, Third Grade Teacher
Since our last reunion, I have completed my Masters Degree with certification in teaching. I have taught third grade for the last four years. I am also the grandmother of two, with a third due in August.
Too Many! Wes’ Express, Freshman Orientation and beanies, Katycombs and the Smoker, talent shows, May Fete, streakers, Mitch’s, DeGidio’s, graduation, Smudge (SMJ), walking up to CST (now UST) on May 1.
To cherish a women’s college and step outside of your comfort zone; get involved.
I was on “Wheel of Fortune” on April 21, 2005.
Catherine Pavlak Garvey
Transplant Coordinator, University of Minnesota Medical Center
Catherine Sloyan Quealy
Accountant, Self Employed
MBA, University of Minnesota, 1983
While most of you are probably almost empty nesters, five years ago Mike and I decided we wanted to open up our family to someone less fortunate. We wanted to continue to have young children at home (our youngest of six was in third grade). We decided we needed to act on our dream to adopt two children. In 2000 we traveled to Albania to adopt Anna who is now seven and in first grade. In 2001 we traveled to Guatemala to adopt Emily, now six and a kindergartener. We now have two children in elementary school, two children at Benilde-St. Margaret’s High School, two children in college, and two children out of college and in the Peace Corps. This year Mike and I and two of our children traveled to El Salvador and South Africa to visit their Peace Corps sites.
The beautiful campus, powder puff football (Rally Fourth), bus rides, and hitching to St. Thomas, student orientation, late hours in the dark room, waiting on the stairs of St. Joe’s for the cafeteria to open, dorm parties, panty raids, Senior Skit, and May Day.
Take advantage of all the opportunities on and off campus to expand your education. Try to be as involved on campus as possible. Don’t worry about grades as much as the whole college experience. Try to get an internship in your field.
In the summer and fall you are most likely to find me on a soccer field. All eight of our children have played soccer, two are currently soccer coaches, and six are still playing. I have learned to love the sport and have run into more CSC alum on the soccer fields than anywhere else.
Jane Waggoner Morrow
Teacher, Faith Baptist Christian School
I am living the biggest dream that I once thought wasn’t going to happen—teaching. I teach 7th through 12th-grade math classes and take on science when needed. I just completed my third year of full-time teaching as of this point. Our elder daughter just graduated from Faith as valedictorian of her class. She heads to BJU this fall. Our younger daughter is a blessing and going into the 8th grade. I am encouraging my husband who is finally going for his bachelor’s degree. We moved back into the city a year and a half ago.
Of many, one that stands out is trying to construct models out of materials in the dining hall for multiple integral calculus with LuAnn Heinz Blair.
Use the time to learn about God and yourself and the gifts you have. Nothing you learn will ever be wasted.
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COLLEGE OF ST. CATHERINE
Class of 1980
Teresa Ann Askew
Anoka-Hennepin ISD, Social Studies Teacher
Being healthy.
Playing basketball. Wes—the “Wes Express.”
Join activities and organizations—and go to Chapel.
Won an alley gardening award (must come from working with Sister Mary Ann Fath on the grounds crew).
Cathryn Blaha Keup
Abbott-Northwestern Hospital, RN
Still involved with family activities of four children ages seven to 16, but finding time to dream of travel. Keeping myself busy by working as a nurse one or two days a week.
Moving my roommate Margaret’s bed out onto the entrance roof of Crandall Hall, bedside table, light and all. Being part of the funeral procession group that won first place in the St. Thomas Dance and Halloween Contest, sophomore year.
If you think you might want to do a particular thing, there is nothing that can hold you back.
I’m fortunate to work with a St Kate’s nursing friend—Barb Nickolay.
Patricia Bordenave Dykstra
Child Development Expert, Home
At this point in my life I have found myself at peace with who I am. I feel blessed that I was able to stay home and raise my children. Over the past five years I have been able to start up a new branch of the Cornerstone Scripture Study in our area. One of my passions in life has been to turn Catholics on to Bible study. This study was developed in St. Louis, Missouri, by Catholic women who had previously studied at Protestant churches and, like me, wanted a Catholic study. Over the past four years more than 250 people have participated.
Life in the campus apartments, the Smoker (Tabs and cigs—yuck!), being in the Katycombs watching “All My Children,” Little Sisters of TKE!
Enjoy this time of your life and use it wisely. Set goals, personal and professional, and as you awake each day pray the Lord will help you do your best to take positive steps toward your goal. Smile and treat everyone knowing God loves them as much as He loves you!
I’ve moved six times in the 21 years Michael and I have been married. We’ve had four children and two years ago adopted two Lhasa Apso puppies from a shelter. They have been a barrel of love/laughs. Our oldest, Jeffrey, started college last September. We enjoy boating and watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.
Ann L. Garvey
Augsburg College, Dean of Students
Grateful for health and family.
Powderpuff football.
Get involved on campus in something!
I’m a drum corps fan – and Star Trek fan.
Judith M. Geck
Mississippi River Visitor Center, Cooperating Association Manager and Store Supervisor
After 20 years of retail bookselling, I’m in the midst of a career change, pursuing my other dream of working as a park ranger. I’m considering going back to school nd I’m working in a partnership with the National Park Service. I’ve had some great Arctic travel experiences, which I hope to continue.
Studying late at night and early in the morning in the Derham parlors; skating at 5 a.m. on the Dew Drop with my sister – the security guard didn’t want to let us go but the ice was like glass.
Focus on becoming a model, be aware of your impact on others, consider how you express yourself, set an example you would like others to follow.
I’ve become a racer – running, triathlons and snocross. I’ve had some good races and been competitive, particularly in my age group. I never expected to like racing and I have learned a lot about self-discipline from training for a variety of sports.
Harriette Huettl Bach
Retired, Hennepin County Librarian
Enjoying retirement, grandchildren, and senior education classes.
Graduating with my daughter, Nancy Anne Bach Bussiere.
Enjoy your college years.
I just celebrated my 80th birthday.
Suzanne Irwin Schroeder
Smith Micro Technologies, Senior Account Manager
Winding down toward retirement. Births of three new grandchildren. Still working at 71.
The beauty of the campus and being one of the first four Weekend College graduates (Dec. ’80).
Work hard and appreciate opportunities available to CSC graduates.
Probably that I’m 71.
Barbara King Wasinger
Ellis County Abstract & Title Co., Inc., Owner
Recently elected to the Hays City Commission, Hays, KS.
Mary Gleason’s bed in the elevator all weekend long!
Never stop learning or growing.
Mary Jo Kowitz Lewis
3M Traffic Safety Systems, Technical (Laboratory) Manager
I have an imminent high school graduate of whom I am extremely proud. I also have a newly minted teenage son and another pre-teen. My goal is to turn them into fine young men as my daughter is a fine young woman. I finally traveled abroad this year—to Rome, where I was part of the Archdiocesan Pilgrimage Choir. We sang at the 150th anniversary of Immaculate Conception, one of Pope John Paul II’s last major public liturgies. Besides church music, I’ve also spent the last several years singing with a community show choir. My career at 3M has moved into technical management, where the balance between the business and the human needs must be carefully tended. I am also the co-chair of the 3M Women’s Advisory Committee, bringing womens’ perspective to 3M management. My husband and I celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary last fall.
Organic Chemistry (especially the labs) with Bill Gleason; camping out on the island in the Dew Drop; playing cards and drinking cocoa every evening during Interim (J-term).
Enjoy the lovely campus. Get out and explore the Twin Cities. Take a class in a subject you’re totally unfamiliar with. Get involved in an extracurricular activity. Make lasting friendships with fellow students and a special faculty member.
I read Jane Austen for fun; my home and office are cluttered (quite different from my tidy dorm room); my secret ambition is to become the next Erma Bombeck.
Michelle Marty Kelly
Secondary Education Licensure, Life Science, 1985, College of St. Catherine
Education Specialist, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources/Fish and Wildlife Division
Retired from Northwest Airlines with flight benefits forever! Now, at the Minnesota DNR, I’m teaching people how to fish and about our aquatic resources in the hope that we will all learn to live more sustainably on the planet.
Most important to me were the good friends and inspirational teachers. My most vivid “mental snapshots” are studying on the hill by the Dew Drop on warm spring days, and watching the first snow of the season from the windows of Mendel (Science Building).
Study well, get experience through internships and travel opportunities, listen to your heart, and remember that you and everything in the natural world, social world, and built world is interconnected and interdependent.
I went to Australia this spring to climb the Sydney Harbor Bridge and see fairy penguins on Kangaroo Island. When I got home, my yellow lab, Jagr, brought me my slippers and a soda from the fridge!
Charlotte McGinley Kokkinen
MBA, Finance, University of St. Thomas
Homemaker
The birth of my first son, Grant. The adoption of my second son, Troy, from Korea. Taking a leave from my job as a financial analyst with American Express Financial Advisors, to stay home with my children.
Buying candy at the bookstore, studying in St. Joseph Hall Smoker with the juke box going, playing on the M.S. director’s powder puff football team, running up and down the stairs at Caecilian Hall with my freshman floormates, and studying at St. Thomas Library with a can of Tab.
I regret not doing an internship. Take advantage of those opportunities. As a math tutor, few students used us: take advantage of the tutors. They are there for you.
When I was in grade school, my family moved from the Twin Cities to Oklahoma, then to Chicago, and back to the Twin Cities. When we moved back we were able to buy back our old house, live in our neighborhood, and enjoy our old friends.
Herta Nuzel Renelt
MD, University of Frankfurt, Germany
Medical Doctor Specializing in Psychiatry, Neurology, Psychotherapy
Births of children, Katharina, Nat, and Jonathan. Working part-time. Looking for a family dog right now. Spending time in France again.
Library, Dew Drop, bookstore, and French classes.
Colleen O'Brien-Berglund
RN
At this point in my life, I’m trying to figure it out. I’ve been spending my time staying home with my kids; our family has enjoyed camping at Glacier and Upper Peninsula. I’ve been active in ACS Relays for Life and advocacy, walked 60 miles for the Susan G Komen Breast Cancer three-day event in Sept 2004 in the Twin Cities. I’ve been active in the PTO and grass roots politics, a book group for 9 ˝ years and enjoy knitting and cycling and will probably think of lots of interesting things after I mail this in.
Fencing
Kathleen M. O'Brien
Senior Strategic Communications Manager, Delta Environmental Consultants, Inc.
I’m working at a great job for a great international company, and also furthering my writing and illustrating career through publishing books, in magazines and participating in art shows.
Being on the liturgical planning team, and choreographing and participating in liturgical dance.
Strive for balance—cultivate your mind through the vast learning opportunities, cherish your physical self through good judgment and choices, and nurture the spirituality within you.
My classmates would not know that one of my favorite words is grimalkin, and that I’m a huge fan of Buffy and Angel.
Barbara Olsen Rule
Homemaker, Volunteer
I had a very busy summer planning my wedding following graduation. My husband and I will be celebrating our 25th anniversary in September. Our calendar reflects the activities of our kids. Heather is 18 and Kyle is 15. They have enjoyed being at the same school again one last time, as Heather is finishing high school and Kyle is just starting. Heather will be attending the University of St. Thomas in the fall. I have been an at-home mom since Heather was born and continue to stay involved as a reliable school volunteer. We hosted a 50th anniversary celebration for my parents last spring. We have traveled to New Smyrna Beach, Florida, nearly every year since 1991, visiting my parents at their winter home. The exception was 2003, when we went to California. I would like to return to Hawaii before the next reunion.
Hawaii—Interim 1979. It was a wonderful trip and a great way to escape a cold month of a Minnesota winter! The title of the course was, “Cultural Crosscurrents in the Music and Crafts of Hawaii.” I actually remembered that. I believe we attended classes in the mornings (the learning part) and had the afternoons free. Activities included visiting the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial, attending the Hula Bowl, shopping at Ala Moana Center, and of course, the beach! We stayed in dorms at the University of Hawaii during the first half of the trip. That was my only “dorm” experience, since I was a commuter.
Believe in yourself, study hard, but don’t forget to have some fun along the way. Your college days will be over before you know it, so enjoy the moment.
I have returned to campus often for the monthly meetings of the Home and Family Connection (formerly the Alumnae Homemakers’ Group). I became part of this group when my daughter was a year old. We would hire St. Kate’s students to baby-sit when our kids were small. We always welcome new members. Thanks to the Alumnae Association for your continued support.
Barbara A. Olson
Manager, Ground Operations Safety, Northwest Airlines
Ellen Rafferty Renick
St. Mary’s Hospital – Milwaukee, Registered Nurse
I’m very proud to be starting my 25th year of employment with the Columbia/St. Mary’s Health Care System. I love my job in day surgery. Having three sons is a blast, with never a dull moment! Bob and I love watching them grow and they are a constant source of fun and entertainment for us. Joe (21) is an engineering student at St. Louis University. Andy (18) will be a freshman at the University of Milwaukee – WI. John (11) is a sixth grader and he adores his older brothers.
Unending joking and laughing with friends.
Nurture the friendships and relationships you make at CSC—they really will last a lifetime.
“Law & Order” junkie. “Team mom” for Marquette High School varsity soccer.
Catherine Starcevich Howe
MS, Human and Community Resources: Child & Family Studies, 1995, UW-Stevens Point, WI
Executive Director, Marathon County Child Development Agency, Inc.
My three children, Annie (age 21 – Sr. at University of Central Florida); Patrick (age 20 – Soph. at Purdue University) and Ben (age 18 – Sr. in High School) have certainly been the highlights of my last five years. We have taken family vacations by car to the four corners of the USA and many interesting highlights in between—Washington, D.C., Yellowstone Park, The Grand Canyon, Alcatraz, whale watching in the Puget Sound, Mt. Rushmore, and so much more of the jewels of our country. My daughter requested a spring break/graduation trip for a week in Paris with both myself and my mom this past March which was gladly granted and thoroughly enjoyed. Their college days have added a lot of nostalgia for me and excitement for them. My job as the executive director of a Head Start program continues to challenge me, as well as give me my outlet to make certain I am making a difference in the lives of others—especially that of young children. It has also afforded me wonderful travel/training opportunities—most recently a trip to Hawaii.
Winterim course my freshman year: The Art of Communication with "Peenie" Galucchi. I have never experienced anything else quite like this course and the impact has been lifelong.
Take advantage of all the opportunities available to you ... both in and out of the classroom. Know that you have chosen wisely in your decision to attend St. Kate’s.
I have been to all but two states in the USA—still need to visit Louisiana (Mardi Gras!!! here I come) and Alaska!
Margaret Wenzel Blissenbach
Staff Nurse in Hematology/Oncology, Abbott-Northwestern Hospital
John and I have four children—Heidi, 21, and a senior at Creighton University, Omaha; Mary, 18, soon to be a freshman at the College of St. Catherine (a dupliKate!); son Jim, 15, sophomore at Academy of Holy Angels, Richfield; and Lucy, 6, a first-grader. We are enjoying raising our kids and working on keeping things as simple as possible.
Winning College Bowl at CSC, then beating St. Thomas’ team too. “Grate Mines” Team consisted of myself, Mary (White) Cooley, Colleen Holm, and Lisa (Happe) Hatzung
Get involved, give it your best, dream big dreams, call your mother, say your prayers.
That I can bench press my own weight! (For a 47-year-old lady, that is a big deal!).
Paula West Haus
Rice Lake School District, School Nurse
My husband of 20 years passed away in September of 2000, so the past five years have been a journey of healing. My three grown children have moved out of my home. I have learned to embrace life as a confident, independent woman. Outdoor adventures and a wonderful partner have made me feel happy and whole again.
Being rousted from sleep on my birthday and riding the city bus in our pajamas to Poppin’ Fresh Pies (Bakers’ Square) for breakfast.
Know when to take a break and let the less serious side of you come through.
Katherine A. Young
JD, California Western School of Law, 1984
I enjoy practicing law and I am very glad to share it with my husband. We both are having fun with our son, three-year-old Jon, who tightens our hearts.
Floor parties at Whitby—particularly learning to line dance when “Saturday Night Fever” was the album of the moment.
If you find work that is meaningful to you, you will be building a solid foundation for your life. Also, it is not easy to balance a family and some careers, so try to cut yourself some slack with the nonessestials, like an imaginary “perfectly-kept” house.
I am planning to open a wedding chapel and reception facility here in Knoxville, Tennessee, in spring 2006.
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COLLEGE OF ST. CATHERINE
Class of 1985
Mary Brown Camber
MA, Theology, College of St. Catherine, 2002
Church Volunteer and Religion Teacher
My husband, Jim, and I have two children—Elizabeth, 12, and Christopher, 10. In December 2002 I completed a master’s degree in theology at CSC and received a Pastoral Ministry Certificate in 2003. I have also completed two units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) and am working towards chaplain certification. I continue to volunteer in various capacities at church and also taught fifth and sixth-grade religion in Fridley, MN, this past school year.
Going to the 7-11 in our pajamas; first floor St. Mary’s; eating popcorn or pizza after a long day of school and studying; being on a Freshman “corruption” program with the sophomores’ help. Conversations and studying with Diane in the library.
Be content with who you are—don’t compare yourself to others. Do what you love! Take every opportunity to learn what you can.
Susan L. Budig
Writer, the World
My low point came in early May 2003, when my sister, Jaci Budig Hartle ’82 died. Cancer took her at age 43. This event served as a catalyst for me to pursue my dreams without reservation. I seek to honor her and all who leave this earth too soon by writing. Currently, I am freelancing as a music journalist. Greater writing lies in front of me and one day it will be achieved. My four children both inspire me and sidetrack me from my vocational goal. Happily, I am an adherent to Romans 8:28 and believe that this will all work out to our best, in the end.
Two memories, both involving spirituality. Lynne Sward and I sat together during a theology class nearly constantly writing notes to one another in the margins of our class notes. Primary topic: the validity of Rene Pascal’s work, “Pensees”, which we studied extensively in class. Our instructor (bless him but I can’t remember his name) challenged our beliefs every day. That quality, in my opinion, is what makes an excellent teacher. The other memory is having a Bible study in my room on fourth floor Caecilian with my roomie, Sharon Behrends, and our spiritual mentor, LuAnn Swenson ’84. When we’d pray together at the end of our weekly study, we all felt as if we were linked in a whirlwind of angels.
The opportunities you have for making fiends will be unlike any other for the rest of your life. Don’t squander friendship time on your libido. Also, keep a journal.
They probably have no idea how often and fondly I think of them all.
Heidi Cross Helgeson
RN, St. John’s Special Care Nursery
I have worked part-time as an RN the past 20 years while raising my children. I have been involved in other areas of interest during this time such as political office, environmental issues, music, and mission trips. My latest goals are to continue to pursue theses areas, in addition to women’s issues, and alternative health.
I really appreciate the quality education I received at St. Kate’s and the emphasis on empowering women to view themselves as leaders in whatever field they study.
“If you love what you do, you will never work another day in your life.” My advice to students would be to look to what gives you energy, what you are passionate about, as a guide for vocational choices.
My daughter and I took the trip of a lifetime to Egypt in January 2004.
Joan Delaney O'Connell
Retired/Tour Manager as a Hobby – Delaney, Joyce, O’Dell Travel
Have been continuing my folks’ tradition of love—planning and escorting my custom deluxe tours of Ireland each August for the past 28 years (and occasionally other countries). It is very fulfilling, and second only to my husband and three terrific children and their families! (One daughter, Pegeen, is a CSC grad)
Creative writing class, except for the part where over half the class contracted mono (including me at age 47—it is not “kissing disease.” Also, “History of the English Language,” where Sr. Alberta Huber assigned a term paper to be written on the history of the English language, but agreed to let me write “History of the Irish Language as a Parallel to English.” Then last year, she joined my tour group to share beautiful Ireland with us! What a treat!!
Make each moment count on this beautiful and prestigious campus. College creates a sturdy base and a kick start for the rest of your life. CSC is known to produce many leaders—be one! And don’t forget to enjoy …
I have just been selected as “Distinguished Irish Woman of 2005” by the St. Patrick’s Association. I’m enjoying the added notoriety this year with participation in parades, nursing homes, (the) cancer home, etc. Past honorees have included women doctors, judges, nuns, etc. so I’m in good company. Bio is at www.stpatsassoc.org, then click on “Who’s Who.”
Jill Eilers Waytashek
Owner, Vice President, St. Cloud Engraving, Inc.
At this point in our lives, life pretty much revolves around our two daughters, ages 16 and 13. We enjoy being involved with their many interests and activities.
Late night study and popcorn sessions in the dorm hallways!
Study hard, but remember to also have fun and enjoy those friends—you are making friendships that will last a lifetime!
I am a procrastinator (ha ha—all my Katie friends know this!) Thankfully, I work well under pressure!
Elizabeth (Betsy) Norell Schneider
Sr. Director, Marketing Services and PR; Business Incentives
This fall, I will have two freshmen—my son, Zak, will be attending college and my daughter, Danni, will be entering the ninth grade. My husband and I are celebrating 20 years of marriage this year. With 17 years at BI, I have been fortunate to have earned travel awards to great destinations such as Rome, Spain, Ireland, London, and Hawaii. We also enjoy visiting family across the US. Time flies!
As a part of student government, I was responsible for the social programming frompig roasts to concerts. There were tales around setting up, the activity itself, and cleaning up involved many fraternity boys (Sigma Epsilon). Many of them are my good friends today! (and one of them is my husband).
Take advantage of the campus consortium and take as many different kinds of classes as you can. Participate in clubs and activities. My college volunteering was very much applicable to my work life.
I have lived in Minnesota all these years, but have moved all over—St. Louis Park, Brooklyn Park, Chanhassen, Woodbury, St Peter, and now, Mound.
Karla-Jean Ross Kaegi
Metlife, Nurse Consultant
I was married in 1999 to my husband, Martin. My husband is from Switzerland. We travel to Switzerland often. We have a daughter, Isabel, born March 2002, and a daughter, Sophie, born March 2005. I enjoy being a mom, spending time with my family, staying young, and working as a nurse consultant.
Tamara Timlin Provart
MEd, 2005
Teacher, Osseo Area Schools
Sara E. Wagner
MEd., University of Minnesota
Currently at Home
All is well with me. I am enjoying my family: husband, 11-year old son, 5-year old daughter. My activities keep me close to the education world and I plan to substitute teach next year.
Working in campus ministry.
Enjoy the incredible CSC environment. It is a wonderful place to learn and grow
Take advantage of all of the fabulous opportunities that St. Kate’s offers its students.
I am a Sunday school teacher in a Lutheran church.
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COLLEGE OF ST. CATHERINE
Class of 1990
Patricia Bauer Carlen
MBA, George Mason University, 1996
I’m at home taking care of our three young boys and enjoying it very much. We also spend a lot of time at our cabin near the North Shore and Boundary Waters—I love the unique outdoor experience each season provides there.
There are many, but two stand out: (1) A wine and cheese party we had in the apartments where we ended up with an over abundance of inexpensive cheese (what most college students could afford) and (2) The protest in support of Mills College remaining a women’s college—it was pretty exciting and I’ll never forget Beth Goudy shaving the back of her head!
Savor your time at St. Kate’s and spend time developing good friendships.
Patricia Bethke Oehlenschlager
Soft Brands, Inc., Manufacturing Support Consultant
I married a wonderful man and have a 3-1/2-year-old son. I am thankful to have my health and family and a job that allows me to telecommute.
Geography class and the friends I made. Julie May, where are you??
You can do anything you set your mind to. Our only obstacles to what we achieve are the limits that we put on ourselves.
I have always wanted to have a strawberry farm.
Debra Biese Gagnon
Sales, Discovery Toys.
Peter and I got married about two yrs after college. We have three children, ages eight, five and 14 months. I balance my stay-at-home life with my job selling Discovery Toys. Our family vacation this summer is a two week boat trip through Lake Michigan, the Sault Ste. Marie locks and Lake Superior.
Lori Braun Campagnola
Stay at Home Mom
After extreme amounts of travel, I am thankful to be able to stay home. My goal is to nurture the family and grow in faith. One day I would like to restore and old, rundown house.
I worked on the grounds crew one summer with by best friend, Barb. We had lots of good talks, toiling away in the gardens. I really love the St Catherine’s landscape now.
Study abroad if you can. I doubt anyone would regret it.
I avoid throwing a ball at all costs. I am so bad it is embarrassing.
Kristin Bremer Seitz
Graduate Certificate of Management, University of Sydney, Australia, 1999
Organizing Consultant, Self-Employed
I’m reentering the work world after being a stay-at-home mom for eight years.
Living on campus—St. Mary’s Whitby, Alberta apartments—and making life-long friends.
If at all possible, study abroad. You learn lessons about yourself and the world that could never be taught in a classroom.
My husband gave me the gift of Lasik eye surgery two years ago—quite possible the best present I ever received!
Molly A. Davis
Graphic Designer, Self-Employed
I started my own freelance design business so I could be home with Matthew, six, and Claire, four.
Dew Drop Bop
I married a man I went to kindergarten with.
Nancy J. Emerson
MAS, 1991, NIU; Master’s of Divinity, 2000, Princeton Theological Seminary
Pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Moorhead, Minnesota
Studying at Princeton, meeting extraordinary people in extraordinary places, living in South Carolina, and now living once again in my home country of the Upper Midwest. Go Twins!
Spring! Studying and playing with friends on the Quad and by the lagoon.
Enjoy the journey! Study hard when you study, play hard when you play, and know when to do both.
I am now a minister in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and am amazed at where God had led me thus far in this journey of life and faith.
Julia Giardina Shawhan
MA, Art History, 1991, University of Chicago
At Home Mom, Home!
In 2002, Stephanie Peterson and I traveled to Italy together. We know lots of good places to stay! We have a goal to go back to Italy sometime in the next five years. (Forgot to get earrings to match the necklace I got in Venice!). Our son, Will got a little sister, Mary Elizabeth, in 2003. We four took a road trip to Yosemite in 2004. Our goal for the future is to try to find an affordable house in Pasadena (hah!)
Going to work in the art building slide library, taking classes in Whitby Hall—it smelled like knowledge! Goofing off with Teri, using the telephone feature on the computer system to interrupt friends working on their papers.
Try to take some classes just for the fun of learning—like Russian. That's what a liberal arts education is all about!
I’ve started making wall quilts. I am working on my third one—a garden-themed quilt for my son, Will.
Kristina M. Hash
MSW, West Virginia University. PhD, Virginia Commonwealth University, 2001.
Assistant Professor, West Virginia University, Division of Social Work.
New parent—Alyssa Michelle 10/21/2004. Received PhD in Social Work in 2001. I took an Assistant Professor position at West Virginia University
Dew Drop Bops. Tennis matches.
Make the most of your studies and friendships during your time at CSC.
I now teach college (believe it or not!)
Jeanne Johnson Scott
MD, University of Minnesota, 1994
General Surgeon, Gundersen Clinic, La Crosse, WI
I am developing my busy surgical practice and am the exhausted mother of three children under the age of five.
Stealing “Clara” and taking her out on the town.
Enjoy your freedom; explore all avenues open to you. Travel and study abroad if possible. Find some time to relax and have fun.
Kathleen M. Kehm
St. Luke’s Medical Center, Occupational Therapist
Working in London, England, as an OT. Volunteering/traveling around the world.
Friends, friends, friends.
Enjoy every day, take advantage of all that you can, don’t take things too seriously, trust that you are laying the foundation for the journey ahead.
Elizabeth Lauer Prado
Napa Valley Unified School District, Occupational Therapist
Married to a great guy. Three children, Diego, 4, Olivia, 6, and Jesusito, 8.
Living in St. Mary’s Hall, third floor. I met some very good friends my freshman year at St Kate’s. Hi Patrice, Dede, Pam, and Jeanne.
Enjoy the college years, travel to other countries, learn about other cultures.
Jeannette Lundak Peterson
I had time in my youth to focus on me, then my career and education. Now my focus is my family.
Living in the campus apartments with Jennifer, Merrisue, and Chris.
Enjoy this time of your life. Many of the friendships you are building now will last a lifetime.
Stephanie Jo Peterson
Technical Support, West Group
I am active in my church, leading small groups and working with youth. I use my degree there (although not in my real job!) doing the bulletin and newsletter! I have a great life, two fantastic nephews, and have been on a couple of mission trips to Mexico, which I highly recommend. It gives you real perspective on your own life, and the many blessings God provides. Nearly two years ago, I traveled with Julia (Giardina) Shawhan to Italy! We definitely plan to return, the sooner and more frequently the better. I still dream of having my own family, and being a mom. Know any nice guys?
There are so many! Most have nothing to do with education or classes, oddly enough! Some of my favorites include meeting Maya Angelou and Toni Morrison, and keeping them company as part of my workstudy! But the best memories are related to my friendships, being silly and squirrelly. Oh, and that reminds me of feeding Fester, the squirrel, stolen Goldfish crackers outside St. Joe’s. And reenacting "Days of Our Lives" with silverware during dinner.
If you're not a morning person, avoid an 8:00 a.m. class with a Sister who takes attendance before she prays! Seriously, these four years will be the best of your lives: treasure the time you spend here, treasure your friendships, and have some fun! Life will never be the same after college. It will be good, but it'll never be like it was while you were discovering who you are, and who you can be.
Two years ago, I became a United Methodist! I'd been active at my parish and felt God leading me to the church my sister-in-law had just started attending, CROSSROADS in Lakeville, MN. It's been a tremendous boon to my faith, leading me to experiences and relationships that have changed my life.
Jody Pietan Minner
Option Strategist, RBC Dain Rauscher
My goals and dreams in life all come down to living a balanced life. Having time to enjoy my family and still have time to work on my own personal goals, which are always being updated. I feel, most days, that I’ve been able to achieve this. As far as traveling. I'd love to do more in the future as our children get older.
There are so many great memories it’s too hard to pick just one! What comes to mind is the time hanging out with friends in the dorms and all the great memories from the swim team.
My advice would be to get involved! There are so many ways to get involved at St. Kate’s and I feel that the more you get involved with St. Kate’s the more you'll take away from your time here.
I've become a pretty good cook and I enjoy it! In college I could barely boil water. There was a solid month, in my junior year, in which I lived on rice.
Susan M. Rehkamp Herbert
Master’s, Nurse Anesthesia, Mayo School of Health Related Sciences
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, Fairview Medical Center—Riverside
Two children, Joseph, three-and-a-half, and Thomas, one year.
Goofing off in the dorms
Gayleen Scheetz Touhey
Retired Chaplain/Spiritual Director
We have retired up north—built a beautiful retirement home with the help of three sons and daughter—just a dream come true. Being a spiritual director.
My internship while attending classes with Ed Sellner. The warm welcome and personal care of staff—respect of an older adult returning to the classroom and acceptance of all students and staff.
“Stay with it”—ups and downs are part of life—ask for help and you’ll never regret your experiences.
I am a clown—“Rozy Red”—my name came about after Sister Rose Tillmans, CSJ – justice advocate for the weak, weary and wanderers in the forgotten city of the rich and wealthy.
Theresa Strouth Gaul
MA, 1991; PhD, 1998, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Associate Professor of English, Texas Christian University
I just received tenure at Texas Christian University and published a book: To Marry an Indian: The Marriage of Harriett Gold and Elias Boudinot in Letters, 1823-1839 (University of North Carolina Press, 2005). Two children: Simon, seven-years-old, and Sadie, three.
Victoria Thompson Engebretson
Business Owner, Worldofgoodtextiles.com
I’m currently changing careers … have started a small Internet boutique that sells luxury goods such as Nottingham lace scarves and French quilts. In the process I’ve learned to wear many hats, some fitting better than others. One fun thing I’ve learned from creating my website is that I love to write advertising copy. Previously I worked in newspaper and magazine publishing as both a writer and an editor. My husband and I have a 14-year-old son, Elliot, who actually graduated from St. Kate’s too (I was eight months pregnant).
One favorite memory is Art 101, with all those gorgeous slides of famous art. I’d rush into class at 8:00 a.m. with my café au lait and muffin from Napoleon’s (anyone else remember this wonderful bakery?) and just sit back and absorb all that beauty and history. I loved the poinsettias in St. Joe’s at Christmas, the decorative vegetables along the sidewalks in the summer, and easing my typewriter-induced (yes, typewriter!) muscle spasms swimming in the wonderful art deco pool at Fontbonne.
Professors and staff are willing to meet you more than halfway when you need help. Don’t be afraid to call them at home, it’s OK. Get tutoring for the tough stuff. After graduating from St. Kate’s, you will have a reoccurring dream: Your phone rings and the caller tells you there’s been a mistake … you’re actually short a class or two and didn’t really graduate. Just wake up.
I was a police reporter—a perfect job for a snoop like me. I knew all the dirt!
Lonnie Vermie Myklebust
MSM, 1999, Friends University.
Nonprofit Executive Officer, SER Corporation.
My husband (John), and son (Nicholas—six years) and I are currently living in Wichita, Kansas ... the hub of aviation design and testing (my husband’s career field). I work at a nonprofit managing federal workforce contracts in Kansas. My family travels fairly extensively and we enjoy new cultures ... especially testing new foods! I will miss the class reunion because we will be at our house on the west coast of Norway ... where we will be looking for any reason not to return to Kansas. Our dream, which is a few years away, will be to permanently relocate to Europe.
Getting kicked out of St. Mary’s Hall with seven other women ... all who ended up being campus and corporate leaders. We have laughed about the experience for 15 years!
Color outside the lines. Don’t let anyone else define what your limitations should be ... because dreams have no limitations.
My classmates probably never knew that I am really a brunette ... at least I think I am.
Peggy Walker McRoberts
Director of Rehab Services, Iroquois Memorial Hospital and Resident Home
We are tripling our clinic space when we relocate to a new building this year. We plan to include many more health promotion and living well opportunities in the new location. My family is planning a trip to Germany in 2007. I’m happy working with the great patients and community members here. I encourage every person who likes working with people and has a creative mind to pursue an occupational therapy career. It is the best choice I ever made. Thank you St. Kate’s and the OT department staff of 1990!
Providing the missing link for Lolly’s pediatric test. I gave her a hula hoop at graduation. Meeting a CSC alum—Judy Purtell—who designed the wheel crest class ring.
Enjoy, explore, and challenge!
I am hopeless at doing a cartwheel, which has created much laughter for my family!
Terry Winscot Coyle
Right now I’m starting over: My husband of 20 years left; my cancer is gone; I’ve moved; and I’m thriving. I can reinvent my life with new goals, piano, college again, new friends, and possibly moving back to Omaha.
Study, study, and more study. That’s all we did. Cram for Spanish tests. Broken windows in the bathrooms. Free parking! I miss it all!
Learn, grow, and participate as much as possible. It will be invaluable in your life. Keep in touch with your friends. Make a difference in the world! God’s greatest gift is a life well lived.
How fun it really was to be bold for a year. You can really make a difference in the world. When you have the chance—go for it!
Colleen Wurm King
RD, 1994, University of Minnesota. MS, 1996, University of Minnesota
Registered Dietitian/MS RD LD. Self employed.
My daughter Jenna was born July 12, 2002, and my son, Matthew, March 10, 2004. I traveled to London, England, with Jennifer Jensen, a fellow CSC classmate in March 2002. In Oct 2003 my sister and I took my oldest daughter, Patricia, to visit Jennifer Jensen in NJ. We attended the Crayola crayon 100th birthday celebration, toured the new home of the Liberty Bell in Philly, and spent a night in NYC. I have tried to keep up with my running and completed the Twin Cities 10 mile race in 2000, 2002, and 2004, the Grandma’s Marathon in 2000 and 2003, and the Twin Cities marathon in 2001 and 2003. I hope to find time to continue running more races and travel with my family.
Some of my favorite memories are staying up late studying in St. Joe’s, celebrating the end of the school year at the Dew Drop Bop and making lifelong friends with the women who lived in Crandall Hall.
Be open-minded to trying a variety of classes and leadership opportunities to help develop yourself and the individual you want to become. Living in the dorms is a wonderful way to create lifelong friendships. Take time to see the beauty of the campus throughout the seasons, it can refresh your spirit and mind.
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College of St. Catherine
Class of 1995
Michelle Blaser Colombo
Homemaker
Finally settling down—after living a year in Seattle, three years in Germany, and then Lincoln, NE. We are finally going to be settled in Kansas City, MO, with our 2 ˝ year old son and newborn twins.
Michelle Cameron Mitchell
I worked as a professional meeting planner at RBC Dain Rauscher for 7 ˝ years. After being let go, I have fully embarked on being a mother, who stays at home, for our daughter who turned one in April.
Feeling comfortable. I loved my experience at St Kate’s and not just one memory stands out as my favorite.
Take advantage of the faculty’s “open-door” mentality. They, too, are very proud of the College and want to help you. They can be a great resource.
Danelle Katherine-Irene Chase
Masters, Marriage and Family Therapy, MSU, 2005
Outpatient Family Therapist Specialist
I have just completed my master’s degree in marriage and family therapy and am currently working toward licensure to do private practice. I love my job working with children and families. I am happily engaged to my best friend of eight years. Another highlight was moving to the Gulf Coast of Florida and buying a house. Have done domestic and international travel.
Many memories in St. Mary’s Hall—tons of fun—late night music sessions in the Chapel, good friends (who I wished I had stayed in contact with), and Campus Ministry activities. There is a plethora of memories! I feel so blessed to have experienced the unique personal and professional enrichment at St. Kate’s.
Tenacity, follow your dreams, force yourself to take risks and be open for growth and change. Stay true to yourself and always believe in your abilities to achieve your goals. Your experience at St. Kate’s can’t be duplicated; take advantage of each opportunity and never take it for granted.
I am engaged to a former Marine Corps captain who is now a therapist at a children’s shelter.
Ann T. Deiman
MA, English, 2002, University of St. Thomas. Assistant Professor of English, Brown College.
I am currently living in Minneapolis. After spending many years in jobs I didn't like, I am now doing something that I absolutely love. I have fulfilled my lifelong dream of teaching English at the college level. In terms of the future, I hope to continue my education, by completing my doctoral degree and by possibly pursuing law school down the road. I also hope to become a mother one day.
I feel extremely blessed to have been given the opportunity to attend a college that would ultimately make such a profound impact on me. All of my memories are fond, happy ones...
Always set extremely high goals for yourself. With the education and experience you receive at St. Kate’s, anything is possible!
I am not particularly fond of aging, but I am trying to cope with it! I can’t believe it has been 10 years since we have graduated!
Karen Donovan Lamm
The year 2000 ended with the birth of our second child, Emily Nicole. Emily, her three-year-old sister, Elizabeth, and I couldn't bear being apart after I returned to work for the Core Curriculum at the College of St. Catherine, so I decided to resign. Since then, we have been a host family for foreign students from Korea, Japan, Panama, and Bosnia. I am currently a student in the Master of Library and Information Science program at St. Kate's, and we are busy building a new home in Andover.
A summer study abroad experience in Toledo, Spain.
I have three pieces of advice: Meet with your adviser on a regular basis; use the services offered by the O'Neill Center and Career Development; and study abroad for at least a semester!
I love to tango!
Stephanie Drew-Anderson
Business Owner, self-employed.
I am married to a career Army man. Since graduating, I have lived in five different states—Minnesota, Tennessee, Kentucky, Alaska, and Georgia. My career plans have been put on hold now while I support my husband’s career and raise my children.
Dew Drop Bops and graduation. I studied abroad my junior year. That, by far, was one of the greatest experiences of my life.
Enjoy these four years. They go by fast.
I’m not as shy anymore as I was in college. I’m much more outgoing.
Laura Herbster Brown
Finance Manager, Northwest Airlines
I worked for a CPA firm for five years after graduation, then started at Northwest Airlines in 1999. Darren Brown and I were married in November 2002. Lindsey was born in September 2003 and our second child is due in August 2005. Darren and I did quite a bit of traveling around the country before Lindsey was born and still sneak in a few trips each year.
Sledding down the hill by Dew Drop on cafeteria trays and going to the Dew Drop Bop each year when it was held outside on the Quad.
Get involved in campus events. Get to know your classmates and the women in your dorms. My friends from CSC are my best friends in the world now and I know they will be lifelong friends.
I spent two long weekends in Europe in 2000 and 2001—in London and Paris.
Elizabeth Anne Huntley
JD, William Mitchell College of Law, 2004
Minnesota Board of Medical Practice
Jill Marie Kuyava
MS, Physical Therapy, 1995, St. Mary’s Campus
Clinic Director, Millennium Therapy and Health Club
I have taken a new job as clinic director of a physical therapy clinic with attached health club (five minutes from home). I also work as a contract physical therapist at a very close TBI rehab unit. I love both jobs. My husband, daughter, and I also have moved to a beautiful acreage with our three paint horses.
Our pre-graduation banquet with everyone having fun together.
Work hard, hang in there, and keep the end result in mind.
My daughter and I are proud to show the paint horses we have raised and trained ourselves. We took all around amateur and novice amateur honors in 2004!
Nicole Lynch Oertel
MS, Education Specialist, School Psychology, University of Wisconsin, River Falls, 2001
School Psychologist, North Branch Schools
I have one daughter, Megan, born January 10, 2003. She is such an angel! I traveled to Okinawa, Japan, in March 2002 and to Tokyo in October 2004 to visit my brother—what an incredible experience!
Dew Drop Bops and spending time with people who have become life-long friends.
Enjoy your time on the college campus—it is a beautiful place to get your education and make lasting friendships. I look back at my time at St. Kate’s as one of the best times in my life.
I love scrapbooking!
Shelagh Maher Bushlack
Stay-at-Home Mom
Angela Mitchell Cole
Aegis Therapies, Occupational Therapist
I will be on my honeymoon during the Reunion. “Hi” to everyone. I lived near the West Coast for almost seven years after graduation, did a lot of traveling along the West Coast, mountain climbing, etc. Now I’m ready to settle down and start a family.
Just living on campus and making friends; meeting interesting people.
Michelle Roers DiNapoli
MA, Social Work, Fordham University, 1996
Social Worker/Prosecutor’s Agent, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, NJ
After graduating from St. Kate’s, I got married and quickly went off to New York and New Jersey. I attended Fordham University in New York City where I obtained a master’s degree in social work. I worked at the Legal Aid Society-Juvenile Rights Division as a forensic social worker for approximately three years—working with children who have been abused and neglected. After moving to Morris County, New Jersey, I accepted a job as the coordinator of the county’s multi-disciplinary team at which I worked with coordinating services and legal intervention for victims of child abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence. My next position was with Jersey Battered Women’s Service—the county’s domestic violence services agency. Here, I was the coordinator of the Legal Advocacy Program (LAP). I supervised staff who assisted women through the legal system—particularly in reference to restraining orders. In 2003, I rejoined the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office as a prosecutor’s agent. In this capacity, I oversaw our county’s Sexual Assault Response Team and Victim/Witness Advocacy Program, as well as provide education to professionals and community members. During the course of my career, I have also supervised several bachelor’s and master’s level students. Over the past few years, travels have taken me to Greece, Germany, Austria, Italy, and the Caribbean (as well as trips across the USA). St. Kate’s is the foundation of my career!
Camping out and protesting in front of the governor’s mansion as part of a social work project to raise awareness regarding welfare. “Wake up to the stirring facts about welfare.” We made the news.
Take advantage of the study abroad opportunities (I went to Kenya). It really enhances your college experience! Consider the social work program—it’s the best!
Jamie M. Ryan
MAOL 2000
Executive Director, the O’Shaughnessy Auditorium, College of St. Catherine
Feeling pretty good about life. In the last five years I’ve been to Rome, London, and Dublin. Would like to do some more traveling.
David Emerson’s analogy of chocolate chip cookies being dollar bills.
Your life is constantly changing … and that’s a good thing.
My fridge is covered in pictures of dogs I know and love.
Ellen Sander Doran
RN, Public Health Nurse in Assisted Living, Volunteers of America, Lyndale Manor Assisted Living
Birth of son, Nathan Doran, 6/29/00. Going to homecare and then assisted living nursing and loving it (work strictly with geriatrics and love it!!). Celebrating 15 years of marriage. Successfully cooking gluten/casein free!
Graduation Day and getting into Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society.
Do your best but don’t overly focus on “grades.” A great professional is more than GPAs or grades. They need to be personable too!
I don’t care for reunions! Bit shy then.
Christina Smieja Pennell
MA - Education, Expected Graduation 2006.
Mom/Student.
The last five years have been exciting, busy and a dream come true. I met my husband, got married, started graduate school and recently had a baby girl, Madeline.
The Dew Drop Bop! Every year was fun, but senior year was a great time and I’ll never forget the friends that I shared that time with.
Enjoy every moment and do a better job at keeping in touch with your friends than I did.
Lisa Warner Chevalier
Realtor, Self-Employed Agent with Coldwell Banker Burnet
The three biggest highlights in my life over the past five years have been getting married, becoming self-employed, and having my wonderful daughter, Molly
Friendships I made.
Whatever you do, finish college.
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College of St. Catherine
Class of 2000
Jill Marie Dorenbush
Providence Home Health, Occupational Therapist
I’ve been an OT for five years and love it! I work in a home health agency, but plan to open my own business in two years as a life coach and private contractor. I am currently dating a great man, and enjoy outdoors in beautiful Washington.
Creating lasting friendships with dorm mates. The Dew Drop Bop every year. The influential professors in the OT program and English department that I still admire today.
For those of you who study all the time—take a moment to relax and have fun! Everyone: Use every obstacle and challenge as a stepping stone to creating your inner strength. Discover what motivates you and use that to meet your goals. Do not rack up credit card debt—you’ll pay for it later.
I’m still known for my laugh everywhere I go.
Jennifer Lynn Flood
General Mills, Account Operations Specialist III
I currently live in Plymouth and enjoy my many home improvement projects. I am about halfway though the MAOL program at St Kate’s and love being back!
I fondly remember the last night of freshman orientation—leaving the Chapel and being welcomed to St Kate’s with a candle lit path to Dew Drop. I also remember holding one of those welcoming candles as a senior.
My one piece of advice for current students is to follow your heart. Follow what you feel is truly right for you. Live your own happiness and dreams.
I have dressed up as the Green Giant’s friend, Sprout, and the Trix Bunny. I am also a Tupperware lady.
Rebecca Olsen Petersen
Kindergarten Special Education Teacher, South St. Paul Schools
The last five years have been very busy. I got married, bought a house (we’re now moving on to our second house), and had a baby girl. I’m now moving to the next stage as an at-home mom.
I always loved opening Convocation. Everyone was so filled with hope for the new year and it was great to catch up with old friends.
Treasure your time at St. Kate’s! It is a wonderful place and you should take advantage of all it has to offer. Meet lots of people, get involved, study abroad, and do as much as you can to make this a rich experience.
I met my husband, Aaron, while in Cuernavaca, Mexico, with our “Global Search for Justice” class (which was the first year GSJ was done abroad).
Diane Schnichels Keil
Thomson-West, Software Test Engineer
My oldest son, in the Air Force, married an Italian national and I have been able to travel throughout Italy and learn about the country. I was blessed with my first grandson Ian Matteo on 12/31/04. Both of my children, Ryan and Brandon and their families are the pride and joy of my life.
The wonderful people, both staff and students, I met.
Stay strong, keep your faith, family, and friends alive in your life.
I was an Aviation Explorer Advisor for 18 young adults ages 13-18 and from recent knowledge, three of those young adults chose aviation as a career field.
Sheryl Stehn-Klouda
Office Specialist/Executive Administrator to Sr. VP of Advanced, Technology, Seagate Technology
I won the 2002 Sharing Diversity Leadership Award in recognition of my outstanding contribution and dedication to assisting the Minnesota Cultural Diversity Center and for my personal commitment to diversity in my organization. We built our dream home in 2001 on a nine-acre lot. It’s a cedar timber-frame post and beam home.
After graduating, I treated myself to a three-week graduation trip to New Zealand (December 2000). I visited my best friend and her family and took a vintage DC-3 airplane tour of both the North and South Islands of New Zealand, seeing most of the country.
I’ve been to all the provinces and territories in Canada by train, RV, or car. I’ve been to multiple countries during three separate European vacations. I’ve traveled to Mexico three times, the Caribbean, all the U.S. states, including Alaska and Hawaii, and plan on seeing the Antarctic within the next few years.
Meeting for a business class during summer session at the instructor’s home instead of the College. It was fun, intimate, we had great refreshments, and it was a great way to learn in a small group setting.
Open yourself up to meeting people from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, lifestyles, religions, ages, etc. Learning about diversity issues and experiencing diversity is so important and enriching. Volunteer and attend a variety of events to build your networking list and broaden your scope of how you see and experience the world. Travel as much as you can and learn about other cultures. Stand up for your beliefs!
I adore Old English sheepdogs and have owned five of them. Field, my 11-year-old dog is still my “child.” I collect anything related to Old English sheepdogs. I love hockey, also, and have season tickets to the University of Minnesota Gophers men’s hockey team.
Siobhann Wrage Paulman
I got married in 2002, moved to Eugene, Oregon, and spent a year and a half teaching music lessons, taking day trips to the ocean, road-tripping to San Francisco and Portland, and seeing my husband through grad school. Last year we moved to Spokane and now it’s my turn to go to back to school—I’m currently working on my master’s degree in music composition at Eastern Washington University.
Sitting on the Chapel steps with friends at night, playing music and talking. Also working in the archives and looking at old photographs from St. Kate’s history.
Stay focused on what it is you want to do, work hard, and make deep connections with professors and students. Also, get outside of the gates! Go out and meet different people, stay out late and party a little.
I have a secret passion for science and math.
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