DU Magazine Fall 2021

FALL 2021

SCIENTIFIC
METHOD

PROPELLING STEM STUDENTS TO SUCCESS

DRAWN TO MISSION STEM SUCCESS MEMORY AND
Introducing President Preparing students for
Glena Temple success in the sciences FORGETTING
and beyond Using sea slugs to unlock
central experiences of life

The Magazine of Dominican University
FALL 2021

PRESIDENT

Glena G. Temple

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FOR
EXTERNAL ENGAGEMENT

Leslie B. Rodriguez

MANAGING EDITOR

Jessica Mackinnon

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Timothy Bannon
Barbara Brotman
Martin Carlino
Margaret Currie
Tina Weinheimer

PROJECT MANAGER

Pam Morin

MAJOR PHOTOGRAPHY

Ryan Pagelow

DESIGN

Jim Bernard Design

Dominican University
7900 W. Division Street
River Forest, Illinois 60305

dom.edu
[email protected]

Dominican Magazine is published twice
yearly by Dominican University for its
alumnae/i and friends. Reproduction in
whole or part without written permission is
prohibited.

© 2021 Dominican University

Cover: Undergraduate research is a Dominican
trademark. Students work side-by-side with
scientists whose top priority is quality teaching.
Through a wide-ranging curriculum that
embraces biology, chemistry, environmental
science, geology and physics, students gain a
big-picture perspective on science and the world.

This page: Dominican’s new president, Glena
Temple, helps students move in to their residence
halls during Welcome Weekend.

table of contents

President Glena Temple is excited about DU news
advancing Dominican’s record on student
success and social mobility, as well as our 4
commitment to diversity. Award-winning Guatemalan-
American filmmaker is this
Drawn to the Dominican Mission year’s Lund-Gill Chair

10

5
Student-led
Center for Cultural
Liberation is rooted
in social justice

13 5
Dominican receives
STEM Success the Dominican Way inaugural Diversity in
Business Award
An NSF-funded program is ensuring that students receive the
support they need to succeed in introductory STEM classes— 6
and in college in general. The ¡El Futuro is Here!
virtual conference
17 explores culturally
responsive ministries
Getting to the
Bottom of Memory
and Forgetting

Robert and Irina Calin-Jageman
and their Slug Squad of student
researchers are using sea slugs to
explore the mysteries of memory.

20 PROFESSIONAL WRESTLING
STUDIES ASSOCIATION
Pro-Wrestling:
An Academic Perspective

CarrieLynn Reinhard welcomes the
changing stereotype of pro-wrestling fans.

departments 32 8
The McGreal Center is
21 In Sympathy recording significant
architectural sites
Class News threatened by closure or
demolition

Dominican Magazine FALL 2021 1

Welcome
Welcome, President Temple, to our treasured On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I am thrilled
Dominican University. to say “welcome, Glena!”

Please let me extend a warm A presidential transition is a
welcome on behalf of the Dominican significant milestone in the life of
Sisters of Sinsinawa, who are proud every university, and finding the
to sponsor Dominican University, right fit is of the utmost importance.
to Glena Temple as she steps into Dominican University’s national
a leadership role on a path formed search for a new president in the
over 120 years by courageous, risk- fall of 2020 attracted a diverse pool
taking women leaders committed to of highly qualified candidates. From
Caritas et Veritas. that stellar group of applicants,
Glena Temple’s leadership qualities,
The seeds of Dominican academic credentials, character
University can be traced to an innovative academy for young and commitment to Catholic higher education made her our
women established by Father Samuel Mazzuchelli, OP and our unanimous choice as President of Dominican University.
earliest Sisters in Benton, Wisconsin, in 1852. Recognizing the For her part, Glena was drawn to Dominican by our
opportunities possible at Sinsinawa Mound, our Sisters risked reputation for academic excellence and dedication to supporting
relocating St. Clara Academy to Sinsinawa in 1867, and, in students in their journey to discover who they are and who
1901, dared to carve out a program of higher education from the they can be. A first-generation college student, like so many
Academy—and St. Clara College was born. After 21 years, in at DU, Glena earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from
1922, our Sisters embraced a new venture and transplanted the Allegheny College and a Ph.D. in botany and plant sciences
College to River Forest, Illinois, where it became Rosary College. from the University of California at Riverside. She also holds a
After decades of educating women, Rosary risked a significant master’s degree in educational policy and administration from
move from tradition and became coeducational in 1974. Again, the University of Minnesota. Over the course of her career,
recognizing the challenge of a changing environment, Rosary’s she has held faculty and administrative positions at colleges
leaders had the audacity to reshape the College as Dominican and universities in Minnesota, California and Wisconsin, and
University in 1997. served as president of Viterbo University, a Catholic Franciscan
institution in La Crosse, Wisconsin for the past four years.
During the past 25 years, Dominican University has Getting to know Glena has been a pleasure. It is evident
earned a reputation as one of the best small universities in the that she has embraced our mission and Sinsinawa Dominican
Midwest. DU has increased its number of academically talented traditions, is a champion for our vibrant liberal arts and sciences
students as well as the school’s graduation rate. Importantly, the programs, and shares our deep commitment to student success
university’s long-term support of Hispanic and undocumented and fostering a community of equity and inclusion. On behalf of
students has been widely recognized. We celebrate DU’s the Board of Trustees, I extend her the warmest of welcomes to
support of minority students, first-generation college students, Dominican University and know that you will too.
and students in economic need.
In Caritas & Veritas,
Our Sinsinawa Constitution reminds us that “at the heart
of ministry is relationship.” We enthusiastically look forward to Anne Kohler ’81, Chair, Board of Trustees
building and deepening our relationship with President Temple.
Just as her predecessors embraced the risks that their times
required, a future with many unknowns likewise beckons Glena.
We assure you that our continuing support for her leadership will
be sustained by the bonds of Caritas et Veritas, love and truth.

On Behalf of the Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa,

Toni Harris OP, Prioress

2 Dominican Magazine FALL 2021

from the president

BIG NEWS! Friends of Dominican,
2022
It is truly a privilege to be part of this wonderful community and to have an oppor-
U.S. News & World Report Rankings tunity to build on the outstanding legacy of Dominican University. A special thanks
to President Emerita Donna Carroll for her assistance in the transition, and to the
#1 facilities team that worked very hard to create a new o ce space on campus and
to get the Donahugh House ready for me to live in. e thoughtfulness and
BEST VALUE IN ILLINOIS welcoming environment created by the entire community has been remarkable.

#1 As I write this, I have been in this role for less than two months, so my priority
has been meeting students, sta , alumni, benefactors, board members and commu-
FOR SOCIAL MOBILITY IN nity leaders to fully understand our strengths and opportunities for growth. e
THE CHICAGO AREA COVID-19 surge this summer and fall has made meetings and events to introduce
myself more challenging. We’re cautiously connecting through small gatherings,
#10 outdoor dinners, Zoom visits and phone calls, and I look forward to engaging with
more of you in the year ahead.
IN THE MIDWEST (OUT OF NEARLY 160)
e faculty and sta have worked tirelessly to welcome students back to campus
#6 and in-person learning in a safe and e ective manner. Overall, most students are
very happy to have a higher proportion of on-campus classes, events and student
BEST UNDERGRADUATE TEACHING IN life activities after the long 16 months that preceded this semester. Our vaccine and
THE MIDWEST mask mandates are making it possible for us to provide these opportunities and
experiences for students. While our on-campus cases of COVID-19 are very low, we
are cognizant of the fatigue of our employees, the continued nancial challenges for
our students, and the mental health of our entire community.

I’m pleased to report Dominican continues to be recognized for its outstanding
academics as well as its success in closing gaps in degree attainment. In the 2022
U.S. News & World Report rankings, we solidi ed our place among the top 10
regional universities in the Midwest, a category that includes nearly 160 institutions.
We were the #1 Best Value School in Illinois, and we were highly ranked in social
mobility, innovation and undergraduate teaching. is speaks to the commitment
of Dominican’s faculty and sta to excellence in education for all.

We recently received noti cation of three major grants to help achieve our
mission. I’ll highlight the U.S. Department of Education Title III Hispanic-Serving
Institution grant of $5M over ve years titled “Improve STEM Services, Strengthen
Teaching and Learning and Fill Program Gaps.” Dominican has a growing grant
culture that is assisting us in enhancing student support and outreach opportunities.

ank you for all of the ways you support Dominican University. I look forward
to meeting you.

Glena Temple

Dominican Magazine FALL 2021 3

Short takes on a season at Dominican

!El Futuro is Here! Alumna lands McGreal Center
celebrates Latinx engineering position project preserves
stories. in aerospace industry significant
architectural sites
PAGE 6 PAGE 7
PAGE 8

Lund-Gill Chair KDarOenManIdNPIeCteAr MNoraLvAa,UcoN-oCwnHersES
Luis Argueta
Tells Immigrant NEW PROGRAMSof Careful Peach in Oak Park.
Stories Through Film TO MEET NEW NEEDS

Luis Argueta, an award-winning Guatemalan-American filmmaker, explores themes In response to student interest in several
of immigration, social activism, identity, and personal transformation in documen- emerging and growing fields, Dominican
taries, short films, episodic television, and feature films. As Dominican’s 2021-2022 has created a number of new academic
Lund-Gill Chair, Argueta is teaching a class this fall titled “Identity and Storytelling programs and specialties to meet market
Through Documentary Film.” On November 18, he will deliver the Lund-Gill Lecture, demand.
“In Pursuit of an Authentic Life,” during which he will examine his conscious decision
to break the silence about social injustice—in his birth country of Guatemala and his The College of Applied Social Studies
adopted country of the United States.
has expanded its Bachelor of Professional
Argueta will receive a lifetime achievement award during the Guadalajara Interna- Studies programs to include criminal justice
tional Film Festival in October. His 1994 film, “The Silence of Neto,” which was the administration, disability advocacy, labor
first Guatemalan film to be submitted to the Academy Awards in the Best Foreign relations, public administration, sustainability
Language film category, will be screened during the festival. studies, and training and development. A new
online master’s degree program in trauma-
In 2009, the esteemed British newspaper, The Guardian, named Argueta one of informed leadership prepares students to gain
Guatemala’s “National Living Lions.” He is the first and only filmmaker to be awarded an understanding of the impact of trauma and
Guatemala’s highest honor, the Order of the Quetzal. He also is the recipient of the how to build a safe and supportive workplace.
National Peace Corps Association’s 2019 Harris Wofford Global Citizen Award. In addition, the College launched this fall a
cybersecurity governance certificate within
Argueta’s series of immigration films, “The U Turn,” “Abrazos,” and “abUSed: The the master’s degree in library and information
Postville Raid,” bring into sharp focus the resilience of immigrants, their struggles to science/master’s degree in information man-
succeed against great odds, and their contributions to American society. His film, agement programs.
“The Silence of Neto,” is the coming-of-age story of a 12-year-old boy in 1954 Cold
War Guatemala. The Rosary College of Arts and
Sciences added a timely major in data
The Lund-Gill Chair is named for former Dominican University President Candida
Lund, OP, and former English Professor Cyrille Gill, OP. science to provide students with the skills to
build software programs capable of process-
4 Dominican Magazine FALL 2021 ing large amounts of data and to interpret that
data in ways that inform strategic decision-
making.

The Brennan School of Business

expanded its offerings to include a master’s
degree in healthcare management, combining
a strong foundation in business acumen with
specialized training in healthcare-specific
topics, and a bachelor’s degree major in
entrepreneurship.

Dominican is committed to preparing students
for exciting new careers and changes in the
marketplace.

CENTER FOR CULTURAL LIBERATION Faith in the
IS GRASSROOTS EFFORT Vaccine Program

While Dominican has received widespread rec- Hispanic-serving, as well as Hispanic-enroll- IN PARTNERSHIP WITH the Interfaith Youth
ognition for its commitment to social justice, ing. Students advocated for a multicultural Core, Dominican fielded a team of 12 student
we understand that we need to do more to center and, equally importantly, for dedicated, ambassadors who fanned out across the
serve as a welcoming environment for histori- full-time staff who could provide culturally
cally marginalized students. relevant support. In March 2020, Jacky Chicago area this summer, encouraging
Neri-Arias, the former associate director of hesitant individuals to get vaccinated for
In that vein, last year the university Kenyon College’s Office of Diversity, Equity COVID-19 and countering misconcep-
launched its Center for Cultural Liberation (CCL) and Inclusion, was appointed director. tions about the shots.
to provide a designated space for Latine, Black Gabby Nicholas was hired as assistant
and other underrepresented students. This director in March 2021, after serving with The “Faith in the Vaccine” initiative
summer, the center was repainted in vibrant the Pat Tillman Foundation and Bottom Line. focused on neighborhoods and suburbs hit
colors, decorated with inspiring artwork, and hard by the pandemic. The students met
furnished with comfortable seating. Now fully staffed and fully operational, the with residents in churches, youth centers,
CCL advises the university’s “The Village” and food pantries and, in collaboration
A student-led initiative, the CCL is rooted mentoring program for Black and African with local medical centers and the Cook
in social justice, prompted by student activists American students; the Pillars scholarship County Public Health Department, helped
involved in campus organizations addressing program for Black and African American stu- organize free vaccine clinics at partner sites.
racial equity as well as Latine students interest- dents interested in becoming global leaders; “So many of our students are essential
ed in ensuring that Dominican is intentionally workers and their family members are essen-
and the Dream.US and tial workers or they are undocumented and
the Pritzker scholarship anxious about signing up for vaccines,” said
programs for immi- Tara Segal, a university minister and director
grant students. The of the Faith in the Vaccine program. “Many
center has developed of the areas that have been most impacted
curricula for these by COVID are the same neighborhoods in
programs in an effort to which our student ambassadors live, so they
boost student retention were especially invested in getting people
and graduation rates. vaccinated.”
In addition, the CCL Vaccine ambassa-
develops multicultural dors also reached out
programming to build to their fellow students
community engagement to encourage them to
and consults with other adhere to the universi-
departments interested ty’s vaccine mandate by
in becoming more submitting their records
inclusive. to the Wellness Center.
Nathaly Valdivia
Dominican Receives Diversity in Business Award Oberto-Besso, a biol-
ogy/chemistry major,
Dominican is a recipient of the Daily Herald Business Ledger’s inaugural Diversity in wants to pursue a master’s degree in public
Business Awards. The awards recognize businesses that have shown exceptional com- health and epidemiology and found her
mitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. experience as a vaccine ambassador personally
rewarding.
“Dominican has a long history of committing to diversity, equity, and inclusion—on “I want to be a science detective, trying
campus, in our surrounding community, and in the larger world. We are honored to have to figure out how diseases work and how to
our work recognized. We continue to strive toward social justice, to amplify underserved prevent them. I’ve had so many people in my
voices in our community, and to create a more equitable world,” said Precious Porras, family impacted by COVID. It was important
chief diversity o cer and vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion.. to me to talk with people in my community to
help them understand how to stay healthy,”
Oberto-Besso said.

Dominican Magazine FALL 2021 5

“¡El Futuro is Here!”

celebrates rich traditions,
diversity of Latinx
students and communities

Three-day event focuses on
culturally responsive ministries

Representatives from more than 50 Latinx life, as each of the prayers told the A presentation on the final day by Cecilia
Catholic, Hispanic-Serving Institutions story of Latinos in those places. González-Andrieu, professor of theology at
across the country joined Dominican Loyola Marymount University, reflected on the
University’s “¡El Futuro is Here!” virtual An advisory team of Latinx ministers and art of the late John August Swanson, whose
conference on August 3–5. The virtual theologians from around the country helped vibrant work focuses on Biblical stories and
gathering, which built on the momentum of shape the thematic focus of each day of the urban scenes. The conference wrapped up
the inaugural conference in 2018, explored conference, with an emphasis on the theol- with small-group conversations and a Mass
ways for collegiate campus ministries to ogies, spirituality, and ministerial practices offered by Rev. Dr. Eddie de León of Catholic
serve the diverse cultures of a growing of Latinx student leaders, ministers, and Theological University and livestreamed from
number of Latinx students. theologians. Rosary Chapel.

“Overall, the conference was a great The conference’s first day was built Along with its focus on enhancing culturally
success,” said John DeCostanza, assistant around the theme of family. Jeanette Rodrí- responsive ministry practices, the goal of the
vice president for mission and ministry. guez, director of Seattle University’s Institute conference was to strengthen relationships.
“For a virtual space, it was a really dynamic for Catholic Thought and Culture and one of
and community-centered environment. It felt the foremost Latinx theologians in the country, “Just as we’re asking questions togeth-
warm and engaging.” opened with a keynote presentation focusing er, it’s through our relationships that we are
on the importance of storytelling. In addition, going to continue to do transformative work
Although the approximately 300 Robert Chao Romero, professor of Chicana/o together,” DeCostanza said. “One of really
attendees couldn’t gather in-person at Studies and Asian American Studies at UCLA, fantastic things about the conference is
Dominican, the virtual nature of this year’s read his poem, “Brown Church.” that it allows us to continue to foster these
conference allowed for several innovations relationships and collaborations between our
that weren’t possible previously. The second day focused on the rich and partners and other Catholic universities.”
varied stories that make up Latinx life in the
“We were able to invite colleagues from U.S. Taking advantage of the conference’s The themes explored throughout the
around the country to present,” DeCos- virtual format, participants were offered the conference mirror Dominican’s mission and
tanza said. Organizers led regional prayers opportunity to enjoy a “closing the distance advance the university’s commitment to equi-
from Minneapolis, Los Angeles, and San dinner” that allowed them to eat together ty, diversity, and inclusion.
Antonio, which highlighted the diversity in while being physically separated.
“If we’re living into love and truth in pow-
Nkuzi Nnam Receives erful and transformative ways, we are always
Davlin Diversity Award seeking the best ways to serve our students
and to allow them to be the people God has
Nkuzi Nnam, professor of philosophy, called them to be,” DeCostanza said. “They
received the Sr. Mary Clemente Davlin are people with a culture, and a history and a
Diversity Leadership Award during spirituality and a theology—and that
Academic Convocation on September 21. theology comes from their communities.
An integral part of Dominican for more than When they come to college, they shouldn’t
30 years, Nnam founded the Black World have to check that at the door. It’s part of
Studies major and has taken students on who they are, and it belongs in the university
study abroad trips to Ghana and South space.”
Africa for many years.
Organizers are eager to continue this
relationship-building at a third “¡El Futuro is
Here!” planned for the summer of 2023.

6 Dominican Magazine FALL 2021

The Sky’s The Limit

for Anusha Mody

When Anusha Mody ’21 an assistant with the Transitions Program, on a prototype Mars lander. At the conclusion of
decided on an impulse to accept and off-campus research positions, and as a the internship, they presented their design to a
Dominican University’s invita- tennis instructor. She also participated in a study team of NASA engineers.
tion to join the class of 2021, abroad trip to Haiti in 2018, which she says was
she didn’t set out to be a rocket the most impactful experience of her life. This past June, just after graduation, Mody
scientist. In fact, she didn’t plan to started as a systems engineer associate at
go to college, since she didn’t find high “Anusha is so impressive,” says Marion Lockheed Martin designing simulations for the
school challenging. Yet, that acceptance email Weedermann, professor of mathematics and F35 program.
set Mody on an incredible career trajectory in director of the joint engineering program. “She
aerospace engineering that includes a coveted is goal-oriented, self-motivated, and proactive in “The aerospace industry is very demanding,
summer position with a NASA program, and a reaching milestones. She really listened to and and quite often morals and ethics leave the
position with Lockheed Martin in Ft. Worth, TX. acted on her professors’ advice, and while she conversation,” she says. “From my education
“At the time, I had this feeling like I don’t was a very strong student from the beginning, at Dominican, I understand that whatever I am
even belong in college,” Mody recalls. “Then, she became even stronger as she progressed.” doing, I can do it from a moral foundation.
as I was flipping through the course catalog, I
thought I should choose something challeng- This focus and determination led to Mody “My purpose is to serve people and my
ing, and one of the first majors listed is aero- being offered a highly competitive position personal goal is to be a better person and take
space engineering.” And with that, she decided with NASA L’Space Academy in the summer care of the people and relationships in my life,”
to purse dual degrees in aerospace engineer- of 2020. For three months, she served as her she reflects. “I have the chance to find balance,
ing and mathematics as part of Dominican’s team’s project manager while they designed do well for the people around me, and move in
five-year, joint program with Illinois Institute of a positive direction.”
Technology (IIT). “FROM MY EDUCATION AT
With Dominican as her home base, Mody DOMINICAN, I UNDERSTAND
commuted between Dominican and IIT for the THAT WHATEVER I AM DOING,
next three years. I CAN DO IT FROM A MORAL
“I am thankful I had the experience of two FOUNDATION.”
colleges with very different focuses,” Mody
says. “Balancing courses and schedules for Anusha Mody ‘21 followed an internship
both was really confusing and the IIT environ- as a project manager for a Mars lander
ment is very difficult and competitive.” Being prototype with a job in the aerospace
one of the few women in a predominantly male industry.
field created additional pressures.
“Dominican was my home and connection
to friends,” she says. “Though it was really
intense, my favorite memories are of all the en-
gineering and math students crammed around
a small table filled with snacks in the Tech
Center, and all of us working through the night
preparing for exams with ridiculous formulas on
a whiteboard. It felt very empowering because
we were all together struggling and supporting
each other.”
In addition to her difficult course load, Mody
maintained a jam-packed, year-round schedule
that included work as a student ambassador,
as a tutor in the Academic Enrichment Center,

Dominican Magazine FALL 2021 7

HMceGareratl CoefnStear PcrreesedrviSngptahcees

Using a drone and The McGreal Center for Dominican Historical Studies is partnering
360-degree camera, with Yale University’s Center for the Study of Material and Visual Cultures of Religion to
the McGreal Center is launch an exciting new project dedicated to preserving and digitally archiving significant
recording significant architectural spaces of the Dominican order as well as in the greater Chicago area. The
religious buildings slated “Sacred Spaces” project uses an innovative approach to historic preservation by creating interac-
for closure or demolition. tive panoramas and videos, using a 360-degree camera and drone photography, of the exteriors and
interiors of important religious buildings, particularly those threatened by closure or demolition.
8 Dominican Magazine FALL 2021 “For centuries, churches have been architects’ playgrounds,” said Christopher Allison, director
of the McGreal Center. “They have deep spiritual meaning for those who have worshipped in
them. This preservation project will let the heart of these amazing buildings continue even if their
physical structures do not.”
Of particular interest is documenting Dominican-sponsored structures. Allison, with School of
Information Studies graduate interns Mary Beth Cave and Kate Kuchler, is working on a pilot pro-
gram focusing on the two chapels at the Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters’ motherhouse in Wisconsin.
“Dominicans have historically embraced the theological convergence of preaching, teaching,
truth, and beauty, with truth and beauty considered as aspects of God. This is manifested in their
buildings. When Rosary College was established in River Forest, Mother Samuel Coughlin
insisted that the campus be a beautiful, contemplative space for learning. This is consistent of
Dominican spaces across the country,” said Allison.
Allison’s team also has documented the 120-year-old Corpus Christi Church in Chicago’s
Bronzeville neighborhood. The church is one of four Black Catholic parishes that closed at the
end of June as part of the Archdiocese of Chicago’s Renew Our Church program.
“We had the privilege of attending the church’s final Mass. It is a magnificent building. It has
beautiful stained glass windows designed by F. X. Zettler, considered as the European equivalent
of Louis Tiffany, and a spectacular coffered ceiling. I’m sure its closing is very difficult for its con-
gregation. We’re hoping we can create a visual testament to its beauty and impact,” Allison said.
Once they have collected enough images, Allison and his graduate assistants use a software
program to create interactive digital tours with commentary about the history, life, and meaning
of the structures. The tours will be viewable on the McGreal Center’s website, as well as Yale
University’s website. By spring, Allison hopes to add video tours of Dominican’s Rosary Chapel,
the Priory Chapel, and Trinity High School’s chapel. He also is talking with representatives of
Oak Park’s Unity Temple, the only Frank Lloyd Wright-designed church in the country.
To help fund the project, Allison is pursuing a number of grant opportunities, including with the
National Endowment for the Humanities. Dominican’s Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence
and the School of Information Studies have provided support for the project. He welcomes the oppor-
tunity to use the McGreal Center’s equipment to document additional buildings for a nominal fee.
“We are excited about using our platform to let communities tell their own stories,” Allison said.

Diamonie McKinney scores fulfilling summer
internship at Argonne National Laboratory

Stars’ senior guard finds success on and o the basketball court

Diamonie McKinney’s summer started with an transferred to Dominican to pursue her interest “I want to be more
unexpected turn, but the Dominican University in both academics and athletics. of a part of the
senior ended up crafting the perfect game plan Dominican family
for her future. In the classroom, she instantly connected and able to inspire
with her coursework, finding real-world learning others”
As a business economics major, McKinney experiences.
hoped to spend the time before her final year at
Dominican at an internship rooted in econom- “My first semester at Dominican,
ics. But an opportunity, made possible through I just connected really well with my
the Brennan School of Business, offered economics courses,” she said.
McKinney an experience she never imagined. “They helped me relate to the
outside world and see that this is what
McKinney interned with the U.S. Depart- it is really about, whether it’s the markets,
ment of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory, supply and demand, or learning how we
working in the laboratory’s communications and spend our money.”
public affairs department. She helped guide a
variety of efforts devoted to the celebration of McKinney not only advanced her
Argonne’s 75th anniversary, while simultane- academic career at Dominican, she also
ously contributing to research projects and the continued to fulfill one of her greatest
development of training documents for staff. passions—the game of basketball.

She also helped Argonne’s events and The 21-year-old Chicago native was a
protocol team conduct meetings, conferences, contributor throughout the 2021 season,
and public lectures, and participated in a forum which culminated in the program’s third-
for early-career employees with David Turk, the straight appearance in the NACC Conference
Department of Energy’s Deputy Secretary. Tournament.

McKinney used her experiences throughout Head Coach Antonio Rivas saw firsthand
the summer to bolster her skills in a variety of how McKinney’s relentless ambition and tireless
ways, and received positive feedback from work ethic were key assets for her as a student
Argonne’s staff. and as an athlete.

“I witnessed growth in her ability to manage “I am very proud of the opportunity Diamonie
tasks, building in timelines, gathering and earned with this internship experience,” he said.
integrating feedback, and meeting deadlines,” “She is a great person, student, and profes-
said Holly Shearer, the head of events and pro- sional, aside from being a great player in our
tocol at Argonne, who served as McKinney’s program. I am hopeful that this is one of many
supervisor. amazing opportunities she will have while being
a Dominican student-athlete.”
“Her professional writing skills have greatly
improved—providing context, clear calls to In her second year at Dominican, McKinney
action, and formatting to enhance messages. hopes to take on even more new adventures.
I have been thrilled with her growth and look
forward to seeing her excel in the future.” “I plan to join some clubs and get more en-
gaged, because I don’t want to be here and just
McKinney said the internship helped her do basketball and school. I want to be more of a
learn how to communicate better and write part of the Dominican family and able to inspire
more professionally, adding that it was “abso- others,” she said.
lutely a valuable experience.”
Following graduation in the spring, McKinney
After completing her first two years at plans to take the next step in her academic jour-
Chicago’s Kennedy-King College, McKinney ney and pursue a master’s degree in business
administration.

DRAWN TO THE “Being president of Dominican
University is a dream job. Every day

DOMINICAN MISSION I kind of pinch myself and say, ‘wow,
am I really here’?”

10  Dominican Magazine FALL 2021

PROMOTING DOMINICAN'S DYNAMIC FUTURE

is quickly acclimating to her new A botanist by training and an avid gardener in her spare time, Glena enjoys working with stu-
home at Dominican, since becom- dents in Dominican's greenhouse.
ing the university’s 11th president in
early August. Prior to her arrival, she ing athletics, service, and research, that helped Glena passionately believes that wrap-
served as president of Viterbo Uni- build her self-con dence and nd her career around support systems are essential for
versity in La Crosse, Wisconsin for four years; path—which took a sharp detour to biology student success. She is adamant that students
she held several positions with the university from medicine when she discovered that she should not have to ask for help.
for 20 years. was squeamish at the sight of blood.
She is intentionally meeting with as “We have to o er undergraduates resourc-
many people across campus as she can in an Track and cross-country became lifelines, es that take away some of that transition anx-
e ort to absorb Dominican’s unique culture. with her team serving as an important source iety,” she said. “We need to make the hurdle
Signi cantly, she helped new students move of support. She developed leadership and seamless and convince students that achieving
into their residence halls at the end of August team-building skills, strengthened her work their goals is doable.”
—to instill con dence with parents and calm ethic, and improved her grades, especially
students’ nerves. when she was in-season. She also learned Glena continued her education at the doc-
In her short time on campus, Glena has about resilience and picking herself up after toral level, attaining her doctorate in botany
already developed a reputation for extending a failing. and plant sciences from the University of Cal-
warm and enthusiastic greeting to any student ifornia-Riverside. She pursued a career as an
who crosses her path. And students are “Being an athlete helped clarify that, as academic in the sciences, primarily at Viterbo,
responding in kind. part of a team, you are only as strong as your including as a biology professor, chair of the
As a rst-generation college student, Glena weakest link. You can have personal glory but biology department, and coordinator of the
understands the challenges so many Do- you can’t succeed without your team. at has natural science division. She also published a
minican students face. She recounts how she stuck with me throughout my career,” she said. number of scholarly articles in peer-reviewed
struggled during her freshman year at Allegh- science journals.
eny College in New York, particularly with She also bene tted from the opportuni-
a calculus class that almost derailed her goal ty to do a research project that included a “I was motivated to break through the
of completing college. e experience was service component teaching science at a local ceilings and barriers that impacted my
humbling, and she oundered, not knowing elementary school. mother,” she remembers. “She was earning a
where to turn or how to ask for help. technical degree in lab sciences at a two-year
“When I got to Allegheny, I realized that “I found that I really liked explaining school when a professor told her not to both-
many students clearly knew how to navigate science and the energy that comes from being er applying for a four-year program because
higher education on a level that I did not. I around people,” she said. “I learned that sci- he would never pass a woman. After she n-
remember sitting in class and thinking, ‘It ence isn’t just about memorizing but it’s about ished her two-year degree, she had challenges
seems like they all have had calculus in high discovery. ese experiences were critical in with companies not wanting to hire a woman
school and I’m the only one who doesn’t have helping me successfully navigate college.”
a clue.’ I felt like I was failing my parents,
who had sacri ced so much for me to go to
college,” she said.
Fortunately, she had mentors who steered
her toward high-impact experiences, includ-

Dominican Magazine FALL 2021 11

PROMOTING DOMINICAN'S DYNAMIC FUTURE

in the sciences. I was determined not to let I think one of my “I am moved by the mission of the
that happen to me,” she said. top priorities is to Dominican order and the story of the Sinsinawa
help alumni and sisters,” she said. “ eir commitment to edu-
Glena also discovered that she enjoyed benefactors see cation, historically educating the immigrant
higher education administration. She went Dominican’s dynamic population, and meeting the educational needs
back to school for a master’s degree in future...” of the regions they served, is inspiring.”
educational policy and administration at the
University of Minnesota and took on roles She indicates that sisters have always
as dean of the School of Letters and Sciences served as role models. “ ey pushed bound-
and associate vice president for academic aries by getting higher education degrees and
a airs at Viterbo. She was appointed vice changing their communities. ey taught me
president for academic a airs before being that you can embrace faith and truth in your
named president-elect and, ultimately, presi- discipline, and that they can complement
dent in 2017. each other.”

As co-director of Viterbo’s honors program, Glena is excited about being a part of
she led trips with students to Yellowstone Dominican and says she was drawn to the
university’s record of advancing student suc-
In her short time on campus, Glena has developed a reputation for extending a warm and cess and social mobility, and its commitment
enthusiastic greeting to any student who crosses her path. to diversity, equity and inclusion.

National Park, New York, Washington D.C., with students, and I think it is an important “ ere are few jobs that would have pulled
and Chicago, where students had an opportu- part of the president’s job. It also gave me me away from Viterbo, and I think that’s a
nity to explore the city’s neighborhoods. another opportunity to connect with faculty real testament to Dominican. It has many of
and understand what they are experiencing.” the characteristics that I loved about Viterbo
“We made sure the trips were accessible —a sense of community, of family, and of
in terms of cost and time commitment. We Additionally, Glena was involved in several working toward a common goal. You know
exposed students to new cultures and spaces service activities in La Crosse and was an students by name. You know colleagues by
— and we learned alongside them. As I look a liate of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual name—and you know them as people.”
back on my career, those were very rewarding Adoration, Viterbo’s sponsoring order. She is
moments.” hoping to become involved with the Sinsi- Glena believes that being engaged with
nawa Dominican Sisters, especially given the students makes her a better leader. She looks
While president, she continued to teach, reverence the Dominican community feels forward to sharing meals with them in the
including a mission seminar for freshmen. “It for them. dining hall and at her home, the Donahugh
is personally rewarding for me to work directly House adjacent to campus, as well as attend-
ing athletic games, theater productions, and
research presentations.

She also looks forward to meeting with
alumni and donors. “One of my top prior-
ities is to help alumni and benefactors see
Dominican’s dynamic future and how they
can be part of that with their time, talent, and
treasures, whether by mentoring a student,
referring potential students to Dominican, or
by providing internship opportunities. One
of the best parts of the job of president is
working with these passionate and generous
people,” she said.

12 Dominican Magazine FALL 2021

STEM SUCCESS

THE DOMINICAN WAY

A National Science Foundation-funded program is ensuring that
today’s students receive the comprehensive support they need to thrive

in introductory STEM classes—and college in general.

Since the school’s inception “ THERE IS NO WAITING until a rough Critical Transitions” is the product
in 1848 as St. Clara Academy, student struggles before we provide support,” of a highly collaborative and engaged team of
Dominican University has a rich explains Tina Taylor-Ritzler, department chair university faculty and sta , including Principal
history in the sciences. Founder and professor of psychology. “We are check- Investigator Chris Anderson, associate profes-
Father Samuel Mazzuchelli ing students’ understanding and knowledge sor of biology; and Co-Principal Investigators
used the latest lab instruments throughout the semester, everyone participates, Barrington Price, vice president of student
to teach science to young and everyone gets help. Without a doubt, the success and engagement; Chad Rohman, dean
women, which was considered project is a shining light of community and of the Rosary College of Arts and Sciences; and
a revolutionary act at the time. support during what has been a very di cult Taylor-Ritzler.
With the opening in 2007 of and challenging time for everyone.”
Reports indicate that the U.S. has fallen
the state-of-the-art e project Taylor-Ritzler is referencing is a behind other industrialized countries in
Parmer Hall, Dominican ve-year, $1.5 million National Science Foun- STEM education, which has prompted the
continues to provide dation (NSF) STEM Success Project aimed at NSF to focus on improving undergraduate
students with cutting- improving undergraduate outcomes and en- outcomes and increasing the number of STEM
edge experiences hancing STEM education at Hispanic Serving graduates. “ e primary goal of Dominican’s
in a broad range of Institutions (HSI). Launched in January 2019, STEM Success Project is to increase retention
“Building Capacity: e Dominican Universi- and graduation rates of underrepresented
sciences. ty STEM Success Model to Support Students students in the STEM elds by supporting

Dominican Magazine FALL 2021 13

“THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE TEACHERS
AND STUDENTS HERE WILL MAKE IT POSSIBLE
FOR ME TO THRIVE ACADEMICALLY AND SOCIALLY.”

Samuel Barrera, Class of 2025

them through critical transitions,” Chris An- Dominican’s $1.5 million National Science “Incoming students often express interest
derson explains. “In addition, we’re targeting Foundation STEM Success Project is in STEM fields, but they’re not sure they
faculty and tutor capacity to support students’ the product of a collaborative team of can do it,” says Kate Powers, STEM learning
success, and facilitating student access to both faculty and staff including (clockwise specialist in the Division of Student Success
academic and nonacademic supports.” Now at and Engagement and a key member of the
the midpoint of the five-year project, the rates from top left) Principal Investigator Chris project team. “Our goal for the S3 is to give
for student participation and faculty involve- Anderson, associate professor of biology; students the chance to create connections with
ment have already far exceeded the initial and Co-Principal Investigators Barrington future classmates and upperclassmen mentors,
projections. Price, vice president of student success get them excited and prepared for learning at
the university level, help them understand their
To accomplish these ambitious goals, the and engagement; Tina Taylor-Ritzler, role in the university setting, and introduce
project team initially solicited input from department chair and professor of them to the tools they need to be successful in
faculty to determine what was needed for and out of the classroom as they tackle difficult
improving student outcomes. Together, they psychology; and Chad Rohman, dean, STEM subjects.”
reached consensus on the project model, which Rosary College of Arts and Sciences.
includes two primary components: the STEM During the online component of the S3,
Summer Science Institute and the STEM (left) During the on-campus, in-person students explored how the brain works, con-
Gateway Course Program. portion of S3, incoming freshman had ducted experiments, participated in interactive
the opportunity to participate in lab and discussions, and learned to develop effective
STEM Summer Science tools and successful study strategies. During
Institute (S3) field research projects. the on-campus, in-person component, the
(right) The students presented their research students worked on hands-on lab experiments
While originally planned as a two-week resi- alongside Dominican faculty and learned how
dential program during the summer of 2020, findings with poster presentations. to conduct academic research. The students
due to the COVID pandemic the STEM concluded this component with poster presen-
Summer Science Institute (S3) was deferred to tations of their research results.
summer 2021 and reformatted to a four-week,
non-residential, hybrid online/on-campus Freshman Jashui Zárate Torres says that
program. This summer, 24 incoming freshmen she was encouraged to ask questions about her
with an expressed interest in STEM curric- educational goals and felt empowered to open
ulum got an invaluable introduction to the up and share her concerns with others during
college learning experience. the S3. Like many Dominican students, she is
the first in her family to go to college, though

14 Dominican Magazine FALL 2021

her family always promoted higher education. (left) "Chemistry is hard. If I can create them,” Powers says. “They are charged with
With extended family members in the medical positive interactions with students, they creating a warm, welcoming environment, and
field, science always has been of interest to her. they often play a key role in connecting incom-
won’t fear the subject as much," says ing students to non-academic supports.”
Through her work as a community orga- Rahel Bokretsion, chemistry lecturer.
nizer with the Southwest Suburban Immi- For Evelyn Ruiz, the tutors embedded in
gration Project, Zárate Torres has witnessed (right) During S3, students had the her freshman biology class were so helpful that
firsthand the mental health and wellness opportunity to conduct academic research. she decided to become a peer tutor herself.
challenges many immigrants face, and chose Now a junior majoring in neuroscience, with
to enroll at Dominican so she can pursue a Professor Chris Anderson led students in plans to pursue physician assistant studies after
medical degree, with the goal of becoming an conducting field biology experiments. graduation, Ruiz appreciates the opportunity
immigration psychiatrist. The opportunity to be a resource for students and making new
to experience the microbiology lab and data STEM Gateway Course connections with other peer tutors.
reasoning lab during the on-campus session Program
helped her understand the importance of “New students are confused, especially in
working together in groups so that everyone To improve student achievement in the the fall semester, and it’s important to create
can help each other succeed. STEM fields, as well as to support their an environment where they feel they can reach
critical transition from first year to second out and ask questions,” Ruiz says. “I talk to
“The experience has given me a sense of year, the project team introduced specific cur- them about my experience and I offer resourc-
confidence in continuing my education,” she ricular enhancements and supports in selected es. It’s cool when students reach out to me
says. “Data reasoning is similar to the type of gateway or introductory mathematics, biology, for help and when I can talk with the faculty
work I currently do as a community health chemistry, and neuroscience courses for first- about students’ concerns.”
worker, so it really resonated with me.” year students. These supports include Peer-Led
Team Learning (PLTL), Inclusive Pedagogy, and The experience has other rewards as well.
Samuel Barrera says that his experience Student Success Case Management. “Being a part of the class reinforces my un-
during the S3 confirmed that he made the derstanding and learning, and helps me build
right decision in choosing Dominican, and his Peer-Led Team Learning my skills for higher level courses,” she says.
experience in the chemistry and forensic DNA This year, Ruiz was able to forego the full-
labs helped him figure out the right major to PLTL embeds two or three peer tutors within time, off-campus job she held during her first
pursue—biochemistry. the gateway courses. This year, 28 tutors are two years, thanks to the stipend she receives
committing 10 hours each week supporting as a tutor and the Schmitt Scholarship that
“I plan to attend pharmacy school and it in-class student learning; leading small-group, supports her community-based learning and
was fun being on campus and doing hands- student-centered study sessions; and providing leadership activities. “Because of this financial
on experiments in the lab,” he says. “My high individual tutoring. The tutors, all of whom support, I am having a completely different
school chemistry teacher opened my eyes to have demonstrated high academic achievement experience on campus and am able to get more
science, and I think the relationship between the in their STEM coursework and received 25 involved.”
teachers and students here will make it possible hours of training, also serve as a bridge between
for me to thrive academically and socially.” the students and the professor.

“It is a high level of commitment for the
tutors and it is a significant point of pride for

Dominican Magazine FALL 2021  15 

“I REALLY BELIEVEMaryann Dreas-Shaikha ’10
THIS IS THE FUTURE FOR
HIGHER EDUCATION.”

Chris Anderson, associate professor of biology

“Without a doubt, the peer tutor experi- Rahel Bokretsion, a chemistry lecturer who Student Success
ence makes a real di erence in students’ career signed on at the beginning of the project. “We Case Management
trajectories and their campus experience,” all want our students to be successful, and I
Anderson says. know chemistry is hard. If I can create positive Because student success in STEM extends
interactions with students, they won’t fear the beyond academics and the classroom, the nal
Inclusive Pedagogy subject as much.” Since joining the project, component of the NSF STEM Success Project
Bokretsion reports fewer withdrawals and more addresses student needs beyond academic sup-
Faculty engagement and commitment are students seeking help before they fall behind. port. As part of the university’s Academic Support
integral to the STEM Success Project and it is Team, a STEM-dedicated case manager helps
no surprise that participation has far exceeded Sara Quinn, associate professor of mathe- with non-academic concerns such as nancial
expectations. e positive experiences that matics, concurs. “It is important to normalize challenges or physical and mental health issues
early faculty participants had with their peer for students that seeking help is something you that can impact a student’s academic progress.
tutors led to increased interest, so additional do because you are a good student,” she says.
courses and sections were added. e height- “It is really exciting for me to see students who “Wraparound supports are built into the
ened interest also led to supplemental NSF took a class with peer leaders go on to become system, and the peer tutors and faculty can
funding for additional tutors. peer leaders themselves. And, now that we are alert the case manager and the project team to
back to in-person classes, we will be able to use make sure students get access to the support
To date, 13 faculty members have chosen our peer tutors in new ways.” and resources they need,” Taylor-Ritzler says.
to have a tutor in their classroom and to partic-
ipate in the project’s “community of practice” According to Kate Powers, STEM learning While Taylor-Ritzler and her team of
model, which includes biweekly meetings to specialist, incoming students often express research assistants collect mountains of data for
discuss topics including classroom experience; annual reports to the NSF, their preliminary
pedagogy; diversity, equity, and inclusion interest in STEM fields, but they are not results show the project is far ahead of schedule
issues; and the socio-emotional development of sure they can do it. During S3, STEM- related to the number of participating students,
students. ey also participate in professional interested students got the chance to faculty and classes.
development workshops presented by experts
in inclusive pedagogy. create connections with future classmates “STEM faculty have bought into the
and understand the tools they need to be holistic model and become champions of the
“Some students are reluctant to join in class successful both in and out of the classroom. project,” Taylor-Ritzler says.
discussions, and this experience has helped me
develop skills for helping my students,” o ers (right) Students drop cell phones from “An entire team, representing di erent
a balcony to test the strength of the roles, is providing instrumental support for the
next generation of college students,” Anderson
protective cases they created. concludes. “I really believe this is the future for
higher education.”

16 Dominican Magazine FALL 2021

ADVENTURES IN NEUROSCIENCE

Getting to the Bottom of
Memory and Forgetting—
With Sea Slugs

What, exactly, is a memory? Calin-Jageman (“Dr. CJ”) specializes in RNA biology, studying the process
and impact of genes being turned o and on. Together, they are well-
Does it exist physically? How is a positioned to study the genetic basis of behavior.
memory made? How is it forgotten?
Is it truly forgotten, or can it be And they have another important research resource: Dominican students.
recalled? “Students are everything in this research,” said Bob Calin-Jageman.
He and Irina recruit and train students to work as researchers in the lab,
Robert Calin-Jageman, professor of psychology, and doing everything from feeding the slugs to performing the experiments
Irina Calin-Jageman, professor of biological studies, and analyzing the data. Their nickname: the Slug Squad.
have been working for more than a decade to
unravel the mysteries of memory. In a neuroscience “It was just an amazing experience,” said Monica Duron '21, who
lab in Parmer Hall, they are seeking to understand the worked on the Slug Squad during the summer of 2019. “Honestly,
biological processes behind one of the most central going into college I never would have imagined doing a research proj-
experiences of life. There is no shortage of questions. ect as in-depth as this, where we’re tracing from animal-level behavior
down to molecular RNA changes.
“We know that memories are being stored in
the nervous system—but how?” asked Robert “And it was so much fun. We were in the lab pretty much all day,
Calin-Jageman, director of Dominican’s Monday through Friday. We all became really close friends.”
neuroscience program.
“I loved it,” said Tania Rosiles ‘20. “I learned so much about
“What are the mechanisms? How research in general, what it requires, and how much attention
does this actually work?” asked
Irina Calin-Jageman. to detail and hard work it takes.”
The students’ contributions are so important that
The two scientists, who are spouses as well
as research partners, conduct their studies on a number of them were listed as coauthors of the
sea slugs. These plump, shiny invertebrates are Calin-Jagemans’ most recent paper, which was pub-
uniquely suited to neuroscience research. Each lished in 2020 in the journal eNeuro.
slug has only 8,000 neurons, compared to 86
billion in humans. Their bodies are neurologically “Oh my goodness, it was really cool,” Rosiles said. “One
divided in half, allowing researchers to conduct an of the first things I did was show my mom and my part-
experiment on one side of a slug and use the
untouched other side as a control. And a number ner. I’m a first-generation college graduate. I never
of the genes they turn o or on as they learn and thought I would be able to do something like that.”
remember are the same in humans.
She was also invited to present the findings at the
Known as “Dr. Bob” to his students, Robert national conference of the Society for Neuroscience
Calin-Jageman’s expertise is in behavior. Irina held in Chicago. When several attendees asked where
she was planning to do her postdoctoral studies, they
were surprised to hear she was an undergraduate.

Working in the lab gives students unmatched
insight into the excitement—and the frustrations—of

Dominican Magazine FALL 2021 17

(left) Dr. Robert Calin-Jageman
holds one of the lab’s Aplysia cal-
ifornica slugs, found in the Pacific
Ocean off the coast of California.
Its typical reddish/pinkish coloring
is due to a diet of red algae. (right)
Undergraduate students work
alongside the Calin-Jagemans in
their ground-breaking research,
a special opportunity offered at
Dominican.

To hear Drs. Bob and Irina
Calin-Jageman discuss their
research on memory and forgetting,
listen to the podcast episode Why
Do We Forget? at dom.edu/
arts-minds-podcast-0

science, says Irina Calin-Jageman. They found massive changes. Hundreds more sensitive, their gene expression did
According to Bob Calin-Jageman, of genes were being more expressed, not change, which they would have had
troubleshooting the inevitable problems producing more of the proteins they were to do in order to rebuild a memory lost by
builds confidence—a skill that will serve encoded to create. And hundreds more decay. The memory had never been lost.
the students well in whatever field they were being less expressed. They had simply retrieved it.
choose.
Seven days later they examined The winning theory of forgetting is
Many choose science. Rosiles is another group’s brain tissue to see what retrieval failure—in sea slugs, at least.
studying for her master of science degree had happened to those gene expres-
at Rush College of Nursing. Duron is in a sion changes. They had all disappeared, What does the research mean for
medical assistant training program and having accomplished their brain-rewir- humans and our concerns about forget-
hopes to go on to medical school. ing task—except for, intriguingly, seven fulness and the devastating memory thief,
genes that were still being expressed Alzheimer’s disease?
The paper they co-authored addressed differently.
a central question in memory research: “We don’t know if this would apply to
How is a memory forgotten? So far, this work repeated their previous the types of complex autobiographical
studies. But now the researchers turned to memories that humans can form,” Bob
There are two competing theories. One the competing theories of forgetting. How, Calin-Jageman said. “Nevertheless, this is
holds that memories physically fade away exactly, does forgetting happen? an important step forward in understand-
as the connections in the brain that helped ing what forgetting is, and hopefully also
store them dissolve. The other, known as They gave the sea slugs strong shocks a step towards being able to figure out
the retrieval-failure theory, is that mem- and then waited seven days, a period why it happens.”
ories remain in the brain, but become long enough for the slugs to forget the
inaccessible—lost or hard to find. experience. They then gave the slugs a The research points the way forward.
gentle reminder shock to the tail. The Of the seven genes that remained activat-
The Calin-Jagemans designed an slugs remembered the first shocks and ed after the slugs laid down a memory,
experiment to see which one was right. defensively pulled in their siphons (their five have equivalents in humans.
water intake valves) for twice as long as
They gave the sea slugs a “long-term slugs normally do. “I would like to manipulate some of
sensitization memory,” or a painful expe- those genes,” Irina Calin-Jageman said,
rience that would cause them to be more This was physical evidence that the “to see whether this would slow down, or
sensitive and cautious afterward. animal was more sensitive because it speed up, forgetting.”
remembered the painful experience a
They administered four strong electric week before. The Calin-Jagemans are eager to
shocks to one side of the slugs’ bodies. obtain more sea slugs to resume their
The shocks caused no damage, but were And they had remembered without research, which was temporarily halted
painful enough to make the slugs ink and activating genes. When the Calin-Jage- by COVID-19. With students back on
“gallop”—the odd word for the way a slug mans and the Slug Squad examined their campus, there should be a new source of
crawls, inchworm-style, to escape a threat. brain tissue, they found that the slugs’ Slug Squad members - and plenty more
gene expression looked the same as if questions to answer.
The next day, they examined brain they had never been shocked at all. While
tissue from one group of slugs to study their behavior changed and they were “We have a lot of work ahead of us,”
what genes they had turned off or on to Irina Calin-Jageman said.
rewire their brains to make that memory.

18  Dominican Magazine FALL 2021

faculty focus

Dominican faculty help build Patrick Homan, associate professor of political Richard Walstra, assistant professor of account-
awareness and boost the reputation science, co-wrote two chapters that were ing, offered two presentations at national events
of the university. We’re pleased published in Congress and U.S. Foreign Policy: of the American Accounting Association (AAA).
to highlight some of their recent Activism, Assertiveness, and Acquiescence in The first was titled “Getting Started with Alteryx”
accomplishments. For more a Polarized Era titled, “Shifting Constellations of and the second was “Applying Metacognitive
information about faculty and Congressional Foreign Policy during the Trump Learning Theories in the Accounting Curriculum.”
their achievements, visit Era” and “The ‘Mischiefs of Faction?’: The He also is the co-chair of the AAA's annual Con-
dom.edu/faculty-focus. Freedom Caucus, Progressives, and U.S. Foreign ference on Teaching and Learning in Accounting
Policy.” for the next two years.
Rosary College of Arts and Sciences
Clinton Nichols, College of Applied Social Sciences
Chavella T. Pittman, professor of sociology, assistant professor of
published three, peer-reviewed articles about criminology, received The Susan McDonough,
teaching, including “10 In-the-Moment Respons- HistoryMakers’ Faculty senior lecturer, School of
es for Addressing Micro and Macroaggressions Innovation in Pedagogy Education, co-wrote the
in the Classroom” in The Scholarly Teacher, and Teaching Fellowship. article “SOEs with SFE:
“Colleges Must Change to Retain BIPOC Women The $7,500 fellowship, Forwarding the Work of
Faculty” in Inside Higher Ed, and “The Overlooked awarded to seven the Liberal Arts in Dem-
Minefield” in Inside Higher Ed. outstanding scholars, ocratic Community” in
is designed to give faculty the opportunity to Educational Studies.
Jeff Carlson, professor of theology and uni- creatively incorporate The HistoryMakers’ Digital
versity provost, served as institute faculty and Archive into their teaching. Melissa Murphy Thompson, clinical assistant
mentor at the Institute on Teaching and Learning professor, School of Social Work, presented
for Campuswide Interfaith Excellence held in Brennan School of Business “Mental Health for Young Musicians” for the Chi-
conjunction with the Institute for Integrative Learn- cago Youth Symphony Orchestra.
ing and Signature Work and co-sponsored by the David Aron, professor of marketing, co-wrote the
Association of American Colleges and Universi- article “Are You Doing the SWOT Analysis Back- Daniel Rainey, adjunct professor, School of
ties and the Interfaith Youth Core. He presented wards?” in the Harvard Business Review. He also Professional and Continuing Studies, co-wrote
“Embedding Interfaith Learning into General Edu- presented “Venn Push Comes to Shove: Toward “Standards, Qualificações e Capacitação para
cation” and “Integrating Interfaith Cooperation into Understanding Dysfunctional Consumer Behavior” Mediadores On-Line,” in Temas de Mediação
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Commitments.” at the 2021 Marketing Management Association E Arbitragem IV, Lex Produtos Jurídicos, Sao
Spring Educators' Virtual Conference. Paulo. He also co-wrote “Bits, Bytes, and Apps,
Oh My! Scary Things in the ODR Forest” in the
Lisa M. Amoroso, International Journal of Online Dispute Resolution.
professor of management, He also edited and co-wrote “Online Dispute
co-wrote the article “Ad- Resolution Theory and Practice: A Treatise on
vancing Diversity Training” Technology and Dispute Resolution,” Eleven
in the Summer 2021 Rut- International Publishers, The Hague.
gers Business Review.
Karen Snow, professor in the School of Informa-
Brent Friesen, professor of chemistry, co-au- Susanne Schmitz, professor of economics, and tion Studies, wrote “A practical guide to Library of
thored the article “Auto-hydrolysis of Red Clover Dominica Bartnik ’18, co-authored the paper Congress Subject Headings.”
as ‘Green’ Approach to (Iso)Flavonoid Enriched “The Impact of Occupational Feminization on
Products” published in Fitoterapia. He also co-au- Borra College of Health Sciences
thored the article “Isolation and Pharmacological the Gender Wage Gap and Estimates of Wage
Characterization of Six Opioidergic Picralima nit- Michelle Allen, associate professor of nursing,
ida Alkaloids” in the Journal of Natural Products. Discrimination” in Applied Economics Letters. The wrote the article “Skills and dosage calculation
He presented “Highlighting the voices of chemists concept for this paper began as Bartnik’s honor’s pilot study: Maybe not in another dimension?” in
from underrepresented groups in sophomore Teaching and Learning in Nursing. She also pre-
organic chemistry” and “Fractionation design of project. sented “Skills and Dosage Calculations: Maybe
hemp (Cannabis) products for analysis and bio- Not in Other Dimensions?" at the Ohio League for
assay” at the ACS Great Lakes Regional Meeting Nursing Education Summit.
2021: Elevating the Importance of Diversity and
Inclusion in Chemistry.

Dominican Magazine FALL 2021  19 

faculty focus

Using Muons to Explore PRO WRESTLING: AN ACADEMIC PERSPECTIVE
Impenetrable Structures
CarrieLynn Reinhard knows there are skeptics. But for anyone willing to give professional
Students working with Joseph Sagerer, senior wrestling a chance, she offers this advice: “Soak it in… Have an open mind and embrace the
lecturer in physics, are preparing to explore the environment.” Reinhard is professor and department chair of communication arts and sciences.
She is also director of Dominican’s social media minor and film studies minor. But, perhaps
hidden interior of El Castillo, the largest most unexpectedly, she is president of the Professional Wrestling Studies Association (PWSA).
pyramid in Chichen Itza, an ancient
Mayan city and revered archeological A lifelong Packers fan who grew up in northern Wisconsin, Reinhard did not start
site in Yucatan, Mexico. Renowned watching wrestling until 2014, after her partner enticed her. She studied the characters, the
for its twice annual equinox displays, storylines. She admired the athleticism. “I started seeing it in a different way,” she said. In
when the alignment of the Sun creates particular, she started seeing it from an academic perspective.
the illusion of a serpent slithering down the
mathematically precise steps of the pyramid, El And she was introduced to “kayfabe” (pronounced kay-fayb), where performers maintain
Castillo draws thousands of tourists from around that their scripted melodramas are real and fans, who also know it is fake, react as if it is
the world. real. “It’s this concept from cultural studies called hyper-reality,” she explained. “The blurring
As part of a four-year program funded by the
National Science Foundation, Sagerer’s students
are collaborating with students from Chicago
State University (CSU) and the National Autono-
mous University of Mexico, as well as scientists
affiliated with Fermi National Accelerator Labo-
ratory, to use muons—particles that originate in
outer space—to study the otherwise impenetrable
interior of the pyramid.
The Non-invasive Archaeometry Using Muons
(NAUM) Project uses naturally occurring muons—

Victor Roman ‘19 works with Joseph Sagerer on testing CarrieLynn D. Reinhard (center) and her partner, Christopher J. Olson (right of center), meet the
a muon detector in preparation for research on El Castillo stars of All Elite Wrestling at the 2020 Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo: Nick Jackson (far left),
in Mexico. Cody Rhodes (left), and Matt Jackson (far right).

created in Earth’s atmosphere when cosmic rays between reality and fiction.” There was no academic field devoted to studying pro wrestling,
collide with oxygen and nitrogen atoms—to probe so Reinhard and others galvanized to create the PWSA in 2017. This year will be her last as
the interiors of pyramids, volcanoes and nuclear PWSA president and her goal is to complete a study of the fans. “There is the old stereotype
reactor canisters, somewhat like x-rays used in that pro wrestling fans are uneducated white men,” she said. “But that is changing.”
medical imaging.
No one can deny pro wrestling’s success. The World Wrestling Entertainment enter-
Currently, students are working on running prise alone is worth roughly $4 billion—and there are TV wrestling shows almost every night.
simulations, developing software, and assembling Reinhard argues that alone does not make it worthy of scholarly examination. Most relevant
and testing a muon detector. Sagerer hopes that, is what is happening in American politics, particularly around Donald Trump, a WWE Hall of
after receiving a permit from the Mexican gov- Famer. “Professional wrestling studies,” she said, “can help us engage with this postmodern
ernment, the group will be able to use the muon struggle we’re having over what is real, what is truth, what is authentic.”
detector in Mexico this spring or summer.

20 Dominican Magazine FALL 2021

class news

You Always Belong to Dominican Mary Conrad Berling is now de- country. Gloria Neises was part of
ceased from Parkinson’s. Her life this group but died in her 40’s.
Class News items are submitted by alumnae/i and was full of raising seven children
do not represent positions, policies, or opinions of in Covington, KY. She majored in Margery Swint, a physician, is in
Dominican University. Items have been edited for dietetics. the east side of Washington near a
length and content. Class News published in this issue nuclear power plant that keeps her
was collected before July 13, 2021; news submitted Lois MacDonald Simms majored cool in the summer and warm in
after that date will appear in the Spring 2022 issue. If in Spanish and secured a job of the winter.
you have news or questions, please contact the O ce translation for an airline. When
of Alumnae/i Relations at [email protected] or friends were home with toddlers, Sister Therese Maher, OP went to
(708) 524-6286. For up-to-date information about she sent exotic postcards. Until Rosary for 2 years and secured a
alumnae/i, go to dom.edu/alumni. she retired, she was working at bachelor’s degree in Home Eco-
the Pentagon. She worked for two nomics at University of Nebraska
Thank you for sharing your news! years in South Korea. in 1951. Most high schools did
not have home economics so she
Undergraduate Alumnae/i she converted to Catholicism and Margaret Carteaux Yuska was an taught science and religion. She
Class News became a sister in the Dominican English major. Her first job was re- received a Master’s in Counseling.
order. She was a medical techni- searching information at the Chi-
1951 cian at Champaign-Urbana. She cago tribune. Her husband took Margaret McGivern Joynt
then left that order and returned over her father’s business and majored in Philosophy and is
Margaret McGivern Joynt, to her Greek Orthodox faith and is they raised 10 children. No one grateful to Sister Jocelyn Gary, OP
Margery Swint a Deaconess. at the age of 92 has more energy ’30 who supervised her work. She
Class Agents than Margaret. She still mows her went to the University of Iowa and
Joan Schaefer Mendenhall lives lawn with a riding mower. studied history and came back to
The Class of 1951 all remember in Greenwich, CT. Her husband Rosary in 1957. She married
the day we stood on the campus is living, but unfortunately ill. He Irene Pawlowski Park married Robert Joynt. They raised two boys
with diploma clutched in cap and was a lawyer and his practice took Dr. Rose on June 22nd, 1951. She and 4 girls. Bob died in 2012. She
gown. Do you ever have dreams them to several cities. She said has 3 grandchildren. She was a took the Iowa bar exam in 1953
of those halls going to an exam she enjoyed each town in which Sociology major, got an MSW, and and the NY bar exam in 1973.
when you haven’t even gone to they lived. She is from Sioux City, taught at University of Science
one class? IA and has six children. and the Arts. She earned a PhD in Frances Ho man Brunkan:
Sociology and taught until 1992. Margaret talked to Sr. Jean
Rosemary Ekstrom Hamilton had Jean Cinelli Harmon majored After 14 years of widowhood, McSweeney, who was Fran’s
six children, and with her chem- in Library Science, and started she married Mr. Park. Her father roommate. She talked with Fran
istry degree was in research and working a week after graduation. thought she should go to secre- and she sounded well. She and her
development—and became the At Loyola, she met her husband- tarial school and her mother said husband adopted two children.
head of development at the TONI to-be. They raised four boys and “Oh No! She is going to college.” Sister Jean has visited throughout
Company. she decided to get a Master’s in the years.
Library Science. Her interest after Dolores Noviski Krajewski met
Kay Karmazin Nebel had two family was hiking. She deserves Jack Krajewski, on a blind date Sr. Jean McSweeney entered the
girls. Sister Albertus Magnus was our award for hiking the most set up by, Joan Cain. They had 1 Dominican Order after her major in
head of the science department. miles as she has hiked in Africa daughter and 3 sons. Her room- Chemistry. Sister Alberic was her
She was very influential. In her and Europe and Nepal. mate was Rita Roach and had the major professor. She taught in high
work as a high school science same size room, as Peggy Stoeck- schools. She got a PhD in Chem-
teacher of Juniors and Seniors, Peggy Stoeckinger Tieman en- inger Tieman and I, in the back istry and taught at Dominican for
Kay eventually became a super- joys swimming and painting. She of Power. The room was the width 20 years.
intendent. and her husband raised 6 children of the bunkbeds. We laugh about
and eleven grandchildren. She it now. We didn’t then. She kept Elizabeth “Biz” Driscoll Greene
Bette Maniatis grew up in the worked as a dietician in hospitals. up with Ellie Schwahn Franzen, majored in Macro Economics with
Greek Orthodox faith. At Rosary, She feels blessed with many good Mary Wenzel Hanegraaf, and Rita Sister Thomasine Cusack ’28. She
years. Roach. applied to the Foreign Service and
was stationed in Iceland. She mar-
Margery Swint; Peggy Stoeck- ried Michael Greene, a writer. She
said “I am the only one living who
inger Tieman; Mary Conrad Ber- knows the di culties involved in
launching the National Catholic
ling; Margaret Carteaux Yuska; Reporter.” They moved to Kansas
City and lived with 4 children in
Margaret McGivern Joynt; Lois
MacDonald Simms: After our chil-
dren had been raised, we decided
to meet for reunions all across the

Dominican Magazine FALL 2021 21

class news “As a young adult, I realized that the more knowledge I can get, the more powerful I
can be. It’s very rewarding to engage our people in theoretical instruction alongside

their hands-on work. Once you set the hook, they become lifelong learners.”

Patrick Osborne ’94, MAT ’08

Photo courtesy of the Technology & Manufacturing Association 1957 case you didn’t know, Joan
Coleman Blank passed away from
Lifelong Learning Ellen Bendry lung cancer.
Class Agent
When Patrick Osborne ’94, MAT ’08 finished high school, the Judy McCracken Svenson lives in
economy in his native Ireland was grim and the unemployment Ellen Bendry: “My sisters and I Naples, FL and has been a docent
rate was in double digits. So he packed his bags and boarded a celebrated my birthday at Gibsons at the Baker Museum in Pelican
plane to the United States, where he leveraged his training as a in Chicago. We had a wonderful Bay for 12 years.
tool and die maker to get an apprenticeship at the Tooling & time, they were here for six days.
Manufacturing Association in Schaumburg. I look forward to visiting campus. Nancy Sheridan Burke reminded
I hope everyone had a pleasant me that at my request, she was our
More than 25 years later, he’s been named the president of summer.” first Class Agent until she went for
the association, now known as the Technology & Manufacturing her Masters. We chaired our 25th
Association (TMA). Audre Coia-Kurowski: “We reunion together.
recently celebrated my b-day
Along the way, he worked at a variety of other jobs and earned early due to Karen’s out-of-state Maureen McGarrity Kuhn is wid-
two degrees from Dominican, where he fell in love with learning. employment. We had dinner owed with six children and nine
Nine years ago, he rejoined TMA to put that passion to work. As aboard a yacht o Navy Pier, with grandchildren. She is a Spiritual
director of education for TMA, he developed training and appren- an after-dark fireworks show.” Director and helps give Ignatian
ticeship programs before gradually working his way up to the retreats. She is a Reiki Master and
presidency. 1958 teacher.

“As a young adult, I realized that the more knowledge I can get, Marilyn Bongiorno Doherty Nancy Enright Beaudry said
the more powerful I can be,” Osborne said. “It’s very rewarding to Class Agent Rosary shaped her more than
engage our people in theoretical instruction alongside their hands- she realized. Dominican values
on work. Once you set the hook, they become lifelong learners.” Joy Ann Barth MBA ’82 passed have become more important
away in CA where she lived out her than the academic knowledge she
the Bob Hoyt’s attic. Biz was a health. Before the pandemic, retirement. She was proud of the received, although she loves to
career counselor at the Jesuit Adele would often see Ginny education she received at Rosary learn.
College and is a certified Spanish Stuart Goldkamp and Jean Cinelli which included a BA in Classic
teacher. Harmon. Ginny would like to hear Languages and an MBA. Rita Burns Olk said while she is
from old Rosary College friends; thinking of something to share,
Adele Hanna Martz mothered 5 Ginny is the mother of 9 children. Sister Doris Rauenhorst, OP was a surviving is her priority.
children; she worked in mental student with us, and is in retire-
ment. She regrets not having had Jean Johnson Grothaus has 4
the opportunity to know us all bet- children, 14 grandchildren, and
ter, but prays for her classmates. 7 great grandchildren. She can’t
believe that our reunion this year
Angela Pierri Thennisch taught, would be our 63rd!!!
got married, had 5 children, got
a Masters in Primary Education, As for myself, Chuck and I are
and enjoyed the little ones for 20 enjoying retirement. I said, when
years. Her husband passed away we moved, I would never cook
and she has since traveled with her again, and I haven’t. I started a
sister-in-law. club at my country club, and it has
become a big success. That, and
Judy Bruss Weaver has been in being class agent is enough for my
Wisconsin since 1966 with four older brain.
children, and a divorce in 1972.
She remarried a local man, and 1962
they had a wonderful time raising
the kids, traveling, a stint in the Mary Beth Vander Vennet Tallon,
Peace Corps. She has been busy Gloria Adams Mills, Carolyn
with community organizations, Sweeney Judd, Elizabeth
after retiring. She added that in Freidheim, Kay Pielsticker
Coleman, Corrine Carnivele
Hanley
Class Agents

Donna Allendorf Wahlert: “Bob
and I celebrated our 60th wedding

22 Dominican Magazine FALL 2021

anniversary. Our five children sur- Testament in 20 minutes. Our next Barb Tucker Philipps: “We had Without Borders) and his wife
prised us for the celebration. Bob major show will be Godspell.” a trip to Wisconsin to visit Joe’s worked in West Africa. Peter is
and I will be going on a small ship sister and do genealogical re- wonderful. So are the kids and
cruise along the Columbia river.” Mary Ellen Akers is a lector for search. Busy’s show, “Girls 5eva” grands.”
her parish. She attended the premiered on NBC. My daughters
Corrine Carnivele Hanley: “I work national convention for shells and surprised me with the best Moth- Maria Tsinonis Stavrakos noted:
towards improving the treatment collectors. She designed the logo er’s Day. Leigh Ann and I were at “Not only is the gray on my head
of racehorses, and I’m happy for that convention which is a nice our favorite breakfast place when a mousey color, my hair had been
to see state and federal policy reminder that she is an art major. Biz and the girls walked in.” thinning. I have seen a lot of
changes. I join others in express- improvement due to natural thera-
ing gratitude to Donna Carroll in Caritas et Veritas, Frances Murphy Fleckenstein: pies, but the color—horrid.”
her retirement.” Susan “Just returning from in CA to
PA. Spent a night in Dallas with Dot Macina Grimm: “Gary and I
Mary Beth Vander Vennet Tallon: 1965 friends. John and I are both well moved into a senior living facility.
“My news is sad: our son, Andrew, and enjoying life, golf, walks, It was hectic downsizing, but we
whose architectural scans are Mary Poelking Sclawy reading, and especially time with don’t regret it. My 98-year-old
being used to rebuild Notre Dame, Class Agent friends.” mother-in-law died which moved
has died of brain cancer, leaving us up to the oldest generation in
his wife and four sons. Andy and ln a query regarding Cyndi Bane, Maria Tsinonis Stavrakos: “Spent our family. It’s taken a bit of effort
I will be moving to St. Paul to be Nancy Kuhn Malling sent out a time with our son, John and his to accept favors. I’ll be on oxygen
with our daughter, Clare, and her notice of her death. Cyndi led a family. The little boys are now 3 for the rest of my life. Being vac-
family. Are there any classmates fascinating life. Nancy observed, and 6,. Together with our daugh- cinated, I can take walks and visit
who live in the Twin Cities?” “Long ago I wrote a newspaper ter, Evonne and her husband, Tim, people. Yay!”
column. Everyone said that they I am starting to meet with archi-
1963 ‘didn’t have a story,’ and they did. tects to enlarge this house to allow Maureen McMahon Hibbott:
And a 1,500-word piece proved it each of us our own quarters.” “Richard and I have escaped the
Susan Flynn every week.” virus and been vaccinated. We
Class Agent Ginny Daleiden Persha: “My were able to see our families who
Some of us managed to visit via husband and I stayed well. Our live in Tokyo and Boston. Our
Helen McCauslin intrigued our Zoom. If you’d like to join, please son and wife, along with their daughter Alice and her boys in
email group with a photo of her let Kim Regan or me know. Kim 7-year-old twins live nearby. One London were packing their car
new “ride”. Scooter does not fully added, “I have enjoyed cooking, daughter and her fiancé live in when their neighborhood was
describe it. quilting, reading, and walking. DC. Our other daughter and her locked down. Helen and grand-
We hope to see our children and husband started a business online. children constructed a ‘hug suit’
Kathy Markley Scruggs says she grandchildren.” They chose to hunker down in which could be worn. Recently
and Max “relish watching Spiral Spain. Marilyn Colby and Pat we had four from Richard’s family
and Setka.” Kathy is a reader and Diane Farr Knittle: “We visited Schaefer Fiorini are well. How staying, and I found myself
loved Just Mercy: A story of Jus- with family members and no many of you who were dyeing your exhausted. My entertaining skills
tice and Redemption and Trevor hugs. As we near 80, hugs are so hair decided to let it grow out? I vaporized.”
Noah’s autobiography, Born important. Covid year brought our did and am happy.”
a Crime. “My main work is for family a baby, Miles W. Knittle and Dianne Hanau-Strain: “This year
affordable housing. The pandemic a puppy.” Marilyn Colby: “I am still living in has slowed down every aspect
showed us that students have no a suburb of Montreal. I’m retired, of my life, without any spiritual
access to internet. I’m trying to Mary Fransioli Gilliland: “‘Adapt- Zooming, and staying in. I have awakening. I survived by learning
get our county to enable public ing to life with Covid in retirement restarted Spanish classes.” to play the ukulele.”
internet.” in the semi-rural South has been
blessed. No major milestones; Ellen Rooney Kelly: “Ginny’s As for the Sclawys, our cruise
Kathleen Coffee is in a theater progress on surrendering all to the question about hair prompted around Northern Ireland was
group. She writes “I’ve been on the Lord front—Thank You, Lord!” me to respond that the pandemic moved to 2022. Steve has started
Board, and have been VP & sec- turned my hair white. I did get up with physical therapy. I have
retary. We’ve worked up a stage Chris Camacho Santoyo: “I left healthier, enjoyed my garden one client, volunteer at the Family
reading of Dorothy Sayers’ Man Mexico City to Indiana with my and pent up hugs with family and Law Assistance Project, and spent
Born to be King. We’re working daughter Veronica. I started friends.”
on scenes from the Tom Long writing an autobiography because
play, Complete History of the Old there is NOTHING to do. I re- Sheila Durkin Dierks: “Our hair
turned to Mexico City, but I hope is beautiful, so well-earned. My
to visit with my son and his wife.” garden is also well-earned. I went
back to school—Theology at the
Seminary. Our son Brian (Docs

Dominican Magazine FALL 2021  23 

class news “A lot of the work I do at the bookstore is similar to the type of work I did at the library—
hosting events, bringing people together to talk about books. The support from the
community has been amazing. Everyone is so happy to see us open again.”

Stephanie Kitchen MLIS ’05

much of the spring digging wild- Alice Kuehne Finn and her her and her family. We won’t go 50. We have been well except for
flowers. The dogs grow old. We husband John were able to visit to New York yet to see Lisa. And normal old people ailments.”
know the feeling. their son in Maryland. Alice is one Doug and his family are in Lake
of the long-haulers experiencing Tahoe.” John and I drove to Florida to help
1966 COVID symptoms. They did a mini my brother and his wife move to
field trip for her birthday. “John Celina Tannura Zalas MBA ’89 a condo. We stopped in Sarasota
Judy Purvin Scully suggested a visit to the Baha’i reported: “We are having our and had lunch with Sandy Kern
Class Agent Temple, a beautiful building sur- children and their families over Cyr and Kathy Pudik Rey. My
rounded by gardens.” celebrating Mother’s and Father’s birthday celebration included
According to Pat Carey, “There is Day and one daughter who turned lots of hugs. We attended our
no doubt that Rosary shaped my Lu DiSalvo Hartman said she
outlook on life. Now, if only they and her husband, Larry, are fine, A Passion for Books
could show me how to get along but it’s been chaotic moving 2
with old age!” doors over. They were in Illinois Stephanie Kitchen MLIS ’05 always wanted to own a bookstore.
and were able to visit with family A lifelong book lover, she spent 13 years sharing her passion for
Sue Jerman Adams reported she and friends. Lu has attended every reading as a librarian at Chicago Public Library’s Harold Washington
“stays busy chairing the resi- reunion and registered for this one, Library Center.
dents’ association. She is about to knowing she’d have to participate
embark on an endeavor with the via her iPhone because they’d be on Then her local bookstore closed because of the COVID-19 pan-
Greater Cleveland Food Bank. Son the road. She fell asleep in the car. demic. Kitchen seized the moment and made an o er on the store,
Allyn lives about 15 minutes away City Lit Books in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood.
and daughter Katherine resides Linda Lindsay-Scott reported:
in Palatine. Six grandchildren, 4 “I finished the semester teaching “Buying the store felt like a now-or-never opportunity,” Kitchen
grown and living in Cleveland, 2 ESL via Zoom. I’m signed up for said. “All the pieces fell into place, and here I am.”
beloved young ones in Palatine.” Fall semester.” She reminisced
about “our little group there in the Since reopening on June 26, City Lit has emerged as a center of
Jan Ciastko Lane spent 3 days old dorm: you and Sandy Kern the community. “A lot of the work I do at the bookstore is similar to
on a birding trip in Minnesota, Cyr, me and Julie West Co ey, the type of work I did at the library—hosting events, bringing people
noting, “It was a success. Three of Barbara Benson Perroud and together to talk about books,” Kitchen said. “The support from the
us friends saw 36 species of birds, Bunny in the triple.” community has been amazing. Everyone is so happy to see us open
including the great grey owl at a again.”
reserve called Sax Zim Bog.” Ann Schwarz Frontier and her
husband Mike are looking forward
Terry Wilkinson Pawlik and her to their vacation in Door County.
husband, Ray, headed to Arizona Their daughter, Katherine, is a
for their granddaughter’s gradu- speech pathologist. Their son,
ation. They spent Memorial Day Tony, is professor at Cardinal
weekend with their 3 kids at Ft. Stritch University in education.
Tuthill near Flagsta . Terry said Tony’s daughter is studying for
she chats with Kerry Hubata and the LSAT. Their younger son,
Suzy Wills Kessler. Joe, is a high school photography
teacher. He is the track coach and
Mary Jane Schmidt Hacker has his own podcast on shotput
wrote: “We were fortunate to find and discus. He went to Oregon
ourselves in the same ‘bubble’ as because athletes he coached were
our son and his family. While he participating in the Olympic trials,
and his wife worked from home, one of whom made the team. Joe’s
Amelia and Elliott spent mornings wife is a high school teacher and
with us.” they have 2 children, 7 and 5.

Jack and Suzy Wills Kessler Marcia Millrood Connelly wrote:
took a trip following Route 66. A “We finally saw Kristin and her
thought someone shared during family in CT. It was amazing to
the trip struck as relevant to hug them!!! Karen lives here so
Rosary and our friendships. “Prayer we were able to get together with
is about relationship. It is about the
relationship with God as well as
with those important to us.”

24 Dominican Magazine FALL 2021

“A passion for servanthood is part of my DNA. I was honored to be
recognized, and I’m grateful because this is going to open up more

opportunities for the organizations that I’m a part of.”

Dominique Bryant ’07

great-nephews’ graduations via 1967 Photo courtesy of David Dickerson Photography and Design
zoom, but I scored a ticket for our
granddaughter Emma’s gradu- Elizabeth McGrath Volunteer of the Year
ation. Hugs and gatherings will Class Agent
never be taken for granted! As a student at Dominican, Dominique Bryant ’07 got involved in
Roxanne Calibraro: “I have been campus ministry, co-chaired alternative spring break and started
Thanks to the reunion planning busy with my latest Guide Dog, a gospel choir. Her commitment to serving the community was
committee: Mitzi Battista Witch- Nifty. I am lucky to have trained so strong that Dominican honored her with the Caritas Award and
with him in 2019. I had to make the Outstanding Service Leadership Award.
ger, Judy Schleitwiler Wolicki, innumerable decisions regarding
my 99-year-old mother. I had to Now she’s won another honor for her service work. Blue
Bev Doherty, Mary Therese relocate her to a nursing facility. Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL), where she works as a
I do find time for other activities Financial Operations Project Specialist, named Bryant the 2020
Connolly Kinder, Maddie and participate in several organi- Volunteer of the Year in recognition of the nearly 285 hours she
McGrath Gallagher, and Ann zations. It will be a whole lot better contributed to service in 2020. In addition to her volunteer and
Wright Hambrook for their e orts. when we can see each other in board service work for organizations such as Four Point Play and
24 participated in our virtual 55th person.” Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago, Bryant is the
reunion: Susan Jerman Adams, founder of the Dream Academy Foundation, a nonprofit focused
Mary Boyle Callow: “I tried on youth mentoring.
Barbara Barry, Ann Canale, baking, exercising, re-connecting
with friends, online shopping, “A passion for servanthood is part of my DNA,” Bryant said. “I
Maureen O’Rourke Cannon, Pat swimming, and working as an was honored to be recognized, and I’m grateful because this is
Election Judge; some tasks were going to open up more opportunities for the organizations that I’m
Carey, Julie West Co ey, Marcia more successful than others. I a part of.”
was on the Search Team for a
Millrood Connelly, Sandy Kern Dominican University President. Mary Win Hesseling Ogg: “Max Dean. Max and I bravely ventured
We found a good one: Glena and I were able to get vaccinated to state parks. Michael’s family
Cyr, Bev Doherty, Mary Wing- Temple. After 28 years on the early! That meant we could join was over July 4 weekend. We are
Dominican Board of Trustees, I our son Michael & his family in FL. creeping up on our 51st anniver-
field Grace, Jeanne Heinen, Mary retired. Dominican is thriving, and It was great to see our grandsons sary! I have even more pictures
my grandson, Samuel, will be a (Charlie 10, George 8, and Henry out of boxes and on our walls.
Therese Connolly Kinder, Donna Junior. The winter was so dreadful 6+)! Our daughter Monica is mov- Found one that Lynne Yancey
in Chicago that I bought a small ing up as the Science Academic gave me in 1966!”
Freehill Land, Janice Ciastko Home in Tucson.”

Lane, Mariann Haberle Leahy, Jane Duggan: “I recently experi-
enced the worst flooding of my
Donna Kungis O’Donnell, Chris home. Nothing too valuable was
lost. I have been very busy in the
Campbell McCuen, Kathy Pudik fight to save the Postal Service.
I organized two 80 car caravans
Rey, Marcia Diaz Schultz, Judy and a number of rallies that
included politicians in support
Purvin Scully, Theresa Vertuno, of postal workers. I am looking
forward to traveling and seeing
Mitzi Battista Witchger, and friends and family.”
Judy Schleitwiler Wolicki. We
all agreed it was an amazing Barb Schaefer: “I did get together
experience! with Mary Lynne Yancey Crow-
ley. It was great to see Lynne
Julie West Co ey and Sandy again. The other news is that I’ll be
Kern Cyr, who are both from moving back to Michigan, in East
Kaukauna, WI, hadn’t seen each Lansing. The time we spent quar-
other in more than 50 years. Julie antined gave me time to get rid
is planning a zoom get-together of the stu I’ve accumulated over
with Linda Lindsay-Scott who the past 40+ years. The challenge
was not able to attend. was letting go of things.”

Barbara Barry touched base with

Jan Ciastko Lane, Donna Freehill
Land, Donna Kungis O’ Donnell,
and Mary Wingfield Grace. She
hopes to have lunch with Donna
Land. She had a phone visit with
Jan and Donna O’Donnell. Barbara
and Mary Grace had a mini-
reunion in Door County. A high-
light of their get together was a
trip through Peninsula State Park.

Bev Doherty: “It was so good
to hear from our classmates. I
was impressed with how much I
learned about others. Thanks to
all of the women who created a
memorable 55th reunion.”

Dominican Magazine FALL 2021 25

class news “It was gratifying that so many people were willing to talk candidly with us
about the realities of working in Hollywood. It is important for reporters to tell

these stories, because if we don’t, oftentimes nobody will.”

Elaine Low ’07

Elizabeth McGrath: “We’re just 18 yrs and is substitute teaching. daughter Jazmin is 18, just grad- 1968
now getting back into the world of Daughter Krystal works for a uated. She hopes to start college
family, friends, and life’s exhilarat- USAID contractor and heads up in Hawaii or Colorado. Grandson Suzanne Engle, Susan Bakel
ing moments. I’m planning a trip her copy-writing business and is a Valentino, 14, is delightful. I am
to Maryland. The family I visit has closet poet. She and both grand- totally looking forward to visiting Cohn
a special needs daughter who is children came on vacation from Costa Rica.” Class Agents
my cherished faux granddaugh- Costa Rica. My darling grand-
ter! Nick and I live on the Fox Thanks to all who attended our
River and donate River Cruises to Award-winning Journalism ‘68Stars zooms. Mary Duncan
charitable organizations’. We’re Gemkow hosted a presentation
accommodating the high-bid- As a senior TV business reporter for Variety, Elaine Low featuring our artist stars—Esther
ders from this and last summer ’07 wrote cover stories on everything from Netflix’s global
so we’re busy. I enjoy kayaking programming strategy to Mindy Kaling’s budding comedy Maresso Langlois, Kathy Gaspers
and rollerblading and Nick and I empire. But the one that had the most impact on her was her Szeszol, and Jeanne-Marie Smith
bicycle.” summer 2020 feature, “The Reckoning Over Representation.” MM ’70. Suzanne Cosimano
A sweeping examination of the entertainment industry’s racial Awalt hosted our zoom featuring
Carol Johnson: “Covid virus in reckoning in the wake of national Black Lives Matter protests, classmates involved in volun-
September. I have been an artist the article, co-written with Angelique Jackson, won a National teer activities—Sue Lizzadro
since I retired. I have been one Arts and Entertainment Journalism Award from the Los
of the “long haulers” and finally Angeles Press Club. Sullivan, Peggy May Schrage, Pat
have some days where the fatigue
doesn’t rule my day. I have 24 “It was gratifying that so many people were willing to talk Stephens Mitchell, Sharon Fleege
pieces hanging in a show, “Life candidly with us about the realities of working in Hollywood,” McNamara, and Joanne Moore
Perspectives of Two Women,”. Low said. “It is important for reporters to tell these stories, Kiewicz.
I have been doing workshops because if we don’t, oftentimes nobody will.”
teaching animal portraiture. Eleven Peggy May Schrage: “I was in
grandchildren and 3 greats live Today, Low is a senior entertainment business reporter Chicago visiting Marita Hoy Fen-
close and all doing well. They en- at Insider’s new Los Angeles bureau, where she covers the
joy fishing with my husband Papa evolution of Hollywood in the streaming age—and continues to ley. Jeanne-Marie Smith MM ’70
Ray and art lessons from me.” explore issues of equity and representation. came in from Denver. We had a
great time. Visited the Art Institute
Susan Ste aniak Farina: “Dick to view the Monet exhibit and met
and I moved to Virginia to be
closer to the grandkids. Found a Carol Anderson Kunze, Marilyn
place 5 doors down from Matt and
his family. We recognized a need Freehill Jancewicz, Suzanne
to switch to a single-level. We Engle MALS ’76, and Mary I
found the perfect house—a block O’Keefe Bateman for lunch.
from Rachel’s family. I had worked Marita and Jeanne-Marie came to
for thirty years at our DC parish St. Louis. We missed Suzanne Peter
school’s library and just switched Sullivan, who sadly passed away
to our new parish.” in 2020.”

Mary Lynne Yancey Crowley: Jeanne-Marie Smith MM ’70:
“Retired Physical Therapist. Loved “Marita Hoy Fenley, Peggy May
my job. Still love art and house Schrage, and I met in Chicago.
renovation. Getting to know my The last time we went to the
adult children and grandchildren, Art Institute, it shut down, so it
sibs, high school friends, and seemed fitting that we go back
myself better. Life is good.” a year later. We were joined by

Ellen Cusack Hartman: “I’m Suzanne Engle MALS ’76, Marilyn
retired but still taking a few clients
if they are interested in my style of Freehill Jancewicz, Carol Ander-
therapy. My daughter Seanna lives son Kunze, and Mary I O’Keefe
close by with her ‘boyfriend’ of Bateman. Another surprise—it
was Mary I’s birthday, so we cele-
brated in Rosary style.”

Suzanne Cosimano Awalt: “I was
quite surprised that the Indiana
University School of Social Work
Alumni Association selected
me as the 2021 Distinguished
Alumna. The presentation was on
Zoom by Dean Tamara Davis and
the Alumni Association President,

26 Dominican Magazine FALL 2021

and included an engraved crystal my brother and family, and saw Florida right after that to spend 10 was my boss and to keep him from
vase. The inscription reads: Jeanne Rogge Steele.” days with my son and his family.” “bossing me around”, I married
‘In recognition of outstanding him. We were supposed to be
abilities, accomplishments and Carol Anderson Kunze: “I am Lynne Wykowski Loresch: “I’m married October 1, but on Sep-
contributions to the profession of delighted to be writing literally from retired but still busy with commu- tember 20th, I informed Dale that
Social Work’. I received my Master Lake Michigan, where we are en nity work. Choral singing with local if we didn’t go to the courthouse,
of Social Work from Indiana Uni- route from Holland to Ludington. groups has taken me to places I I might change my mind. We
versity School of Social Work in We plan to travel as far north as never dreamed I would see.” gathered up my sister as a witness
Indianapolis in 1971 and Doctor of Hessel. Our 37-year-old African and off we went. We’ve had a lot of
Social Welfare from University of Gray parrot, Louie, is making Joyce Smith Colander MALS adventures together. I would do it
California Berkeley in 1982.” his first trip on the boat. We look ’69: “I stayed at Rosary to get all again. No gifts please.”
forward to a family rendezvous in my Master’s in Library Science.
Ann Wagner Ahmari: “I want to let person! One of the positives from When the Beverly Library opened Ruth Kessler Dallas, finding
everyone know that my husband, the pandemic has been seeing so in 1970 I was asked to go there, Nancy’s comments a hoot and
Reza, passed away. He had been ill many classmates on Zoom.” where I ended up working for glad that she found true love,
for a long time, so it was not a sur- many years. I was married, and awarded Nancy the Class of 1969
prise, but it was difficult. On the Kathy Toborg Wessels Cook was in 1975, I took a leave that lasted top “making us smile” post.
bright side, after I got vaccinated, honored for her work with Four 10 years with 6 children. In 1985,
it was fun to visit the Champaign Oaks agency upon their 20th I was offered to come back to Kim Smyth Roufs writes: “I am so
grandkids. I drove to Pittsburgh to anniversary. Kathy says Four Oaks Beverly. I was promoted to Branch grateful that I attended our 50th. I
visit Susanne and her family. Our was her proudest work experi- Head. My husband died in 2015. I have spent time with Chris Godsil
class zoom meetings were a real ence. It is the largest child welfare continued to work, which helped
bright spot for me.” and juvenile justice agency. Kathy me get through his passing. I Cooper, Terry Korbecki Daniello,
joined Four Oaks as Executive retired in 2020 to spend time with Kathy Doran Halfpenny, and
Michele Longino: “On Thursday, Director of the Four Oaks Founda- my 11 grandchildren. This summer Pat Rink. Annette Marrandino
July 1st, I retired and became a tion. She led fundraising efforts. I travelled to Arlington and Myrtle Carmany and I discovered we
professor emerita! It has been Beach to visit friends.” had mutual friends where I live. It
quite a year to go out on! When Pat Fitts Jacobson: “My son was a gift to connect with Cami
people ask me the inevitable invited me to go to North Topsail We are sad to report that Carolyn Jarasek McNamee and husband
question—what are your plans—I Beach with them. We ventured Misch died July 13, 2018. Jack and Mary Malone Janicki.
have been instructed by friends to out to restaurants and beaches. It Susan Kreuz McCoyd and I had
respond: “to party party party!” was truly liberating to drive that Keep up-to-date on our Facebook some good talks. The play was
far—11 hours! I stopped to recon- page “Rosary College Class of hilarious, with Kathy Perkins
Pat Rabchuk Nelson: “I’m doing nect with my cousins in Chapel 1968”. Share your news by email- and Terri Cahill Mehl. I’m retired
all the things I enjoy—gardening, Hill; I stayed with close friends in ing [email protected]. from the University of Minnesota,
reading, painting, and spending NC. After I got back, I flew to San Duluth, but work for the Higher
time with my five grandchildren Diego to spend a week with my 1969 Learning Commission and am an
and my friends. The Chicago daughter and granddaughters. I editor for two journals. I knit and
Botanic Garden was the first place did both coasts within 8 days!!! I Susan Kreuz McCoyd binge-watch movies. My husband
I signed up to volunteer. Then I flew back to Ohio with my daugh- Class Agent Tim and I have three sons, eight
signed up t at my library, which ter and her 3 girls so they could grandchildren. We just took a road
was my way to repay for their help visit with me and grandpa.” Terri Cahill Mehl perhaps ex- trip. On the way, we had breakfast
while working on my Master’s. pressed it best: “News? If we can with Chris Godsil Cooper and her
Lunch with friends is a joy. Now Susan Bakel Cohn: “I have been share news, it’s that we are alive husband Ricky, and I had lunch
that my husband is retired, it’s working with Newman University, and kicking! My days are currently with Pat Rink.”
great to get in the car and dash to organize the Annual Board Re- filled with a garden, grandchil-
off.” treat, an Education for Life class, dren, a fella, and even grand Mary Malone Janicki and
and a Montessori Materials Work- pets!!” to which Christine Godsil husband Dennis traveled from
Lynn Troy: “Since moving from shop. I have accepted a position Cooper replied, “Alive with grand- CT to Chicago and visited the
Vermont to Maryland, I have had as Adjunct Professor of Education children are the best parts.” Art Institute with Susan Kreuz
visits from Maureen Conlan at Newman. I enjoyed spending McCoyd and her husband Kevin.
Reddy, and Pat Stephens Mitch- time with family and friends over Anne Wilson writes: “Just trying The four, and Mary’s sister Sue,
ell. Michele Longino came for the summer. Drove to Chicago, to stay cool, away from doctors, then enjoyed lunch at Miller’s Pub.
a visit. During Michele’s visit, stayed overnight with Suzie Engle away from Covid, and above Mary and Dennis traveled from
we met Kathy Foley Hickey. My MALS ’76 and her husband Steve ground.” CT to Bemidji, MN for the Malone
partner, our pooch, and I took off Nelson, then had lunch with the family reunion but the last reunion
in our camper to Minnesota to see Posse in Greektown. I flew to Nancy Schumacher Piedlow’s was three years ago giving an
good news: “My husband Dale and
I will be married for 50 years! He

Dominican Magazine FALL 2021  27 

class news

extra year to add descendants— union Committee. The reception We have 5 wonderful children and giving up the wheat growing. Her
sixty-eight and counting. at President Donna Carroll’s 6 grandchildren. The eldest boy house was full with family who had
home was lovely. It was 25 plus and girl live in Denver. I return to gathered to celebrate and “bring in
Terry Korbecki Daniello traveled one years ago when our class the States almost every year to the sheaves!” Their trip to France
to New Orleans—Bourbon Street, attended her first State of the Col- visit family, but circumstances will with her siblings is back on track.
Jazz, Pat Brian Hurricanes, and lege address. This was her final keep me in Germany with the rest
beignets at Café du Monde. address. Ann Stauffer exhibited of my family.” Mary Ann Campbell Swalling
that Rosary determination arriv- and her husband Chris, spent 7
Joanne Capito-Corwin wins first ing, aided by a medical escort, Taking time out from her position weeks at their Coachella Valley
prize for top travel destination: triumphant over her knee surgery. as Dean of Liberal Arts at Oakton condo. MA enjoyed painting while
South Africa: Zanzibar, Tanzanian The Luncheon was held in the Community College, Linda Gen- Chris golfed. They flew to South
Safari Yoga Retreat, and Serengeti Social Hall and as we arrived tile Korbel said that the ability to Carolina to celebrate her Mom’s
National Park. laughter and memories enveloped complete a BA and MA at Rosary 100th birthday! They celebrated
the room. While we have changed, had opened the door to the career their 49th anniversary. She was so
Janet Lynch Forde MALS ’72 our voices and laughter once that she is still enjoying. She glad that she was smart enough to
informed us of the death of Mara again spilled out onto the Cloister enjoyed 24 years of marriage to say “yes” when Chris proposed. A
Moroney McHugh. Sympathy Walk echoing a simpler time. The Al Korbel. She continued “I am recent trip took them to Mon-
and prayers are extended to her news in this Class letter depends blessed with amazing friends, tana for their oldest grandson’s
husband Kevin, her daughters and on YOU! We’d love to know what’s especially Gen Ramirez and Sue wedding. All 4 of their children,
her grandchildren. been happening. You can contact Koroski Bielawski. The past year 2 in-laws and five grandchildren
me at [email protected].” and a half have challenged all of made the trek.
The Class of 1969 extends a us, but the people in our lives are
“Welcome Aboard!” to President 1971 what sustain us.” Writing from Millennium Park,
Glena Temple. Vicki Woodward was listening to
Kathy Klem Large Nancy Sidote Salyers MA ’72 the Grant Park Orchestra’s Music
1970 Class Agent began “coming out of pandemic Festival. She and John spent the
mode takes energy” and continued 4th babysitting their grandchildren
Karen Ripley Stein It was a delight to see those by sharing her most enjoyable in D.C. It was a challenge and a
Class Agent able to participate in the ZOOM moments are spent with her 2 gift and she is so glad she “got her
Reunion. I am pleased to see news sons and 5 grandchildren. “I smile bum hip replaced!” She was able
Margaret Kall Navolio: “Was in from so many. So here goes… when I think of signing out the old to reconnect with Mary Farmer.
advertising in Chicago from 1970 station wagon, signing up for the Vicki and John spent 2 weeks in
until 2009. Then manager at a Kathy Riley Ketterhagen shuttle, or hiking up my slacks to Hawaii. Come August, they will
private women’s club in Chicago. wrote that she and her husband hide under my trench coat while have vacationed in Utah with their
Did studies in the Morton Arbo- celebrated their 50th wedding an- entering the gates.” children to introduce them to the
retum’s botanic artist’s program. niversary! They gathered their 3 Tuhaye community where they
Married to Steve Navolio and we sons, their wives, and 6 grandchil- Peggy Goldsmith Schultz plan to build a second home.
have 4 grandchildren. All are in dren to celebrate in CO. She con- said they are returning to their
the ‘burbs and under the age of tinued that they have spent most old selves. “Our children and Norah McCann King wrote that
5! Loving retirement as I hit the of their married life in FL. Two of grandchildren (3 girls and 3 boys, she is retired as a federal judge
gym, garden, golf, play piano, visit their sons live in North Carolina ages 7-16) are becoming part of in Ohio. She continues to work
with friends, and run after the and one in Wisconsin and they our lives again and I love it.” She on assignment for federal courts
grandkids.” enjoy visiting them. She is able has been involved with the U of around the country. Her husband,
to see Jane Heinen Schlotman I Extension and is back working an attorney, is unwilling to retire.
Nancy McGrath Simpson: “Just and her husband Larry in Florida. to install school gardens. It’s all They have 4 grandchildren and
want to say hello to loved ones!! Kathy has been fortunate to visit about connecting kids and nature! 6 grandchildren. Their son is a
Mark and I will celebrate our 50th with Colleen Colgan, Martha Peggy ended saying, “every day Franciscan priest assigned to
wedding anniversary. We have is a gift and nowhere is it more work in Jamaica; two daughters
been blessed with 3 children and Larkin, Cathy McGinn Kinsella, evident than when I am working in are married with children and the
6 Grandchildren and we see them Marty Kahler Van Ness and Jane. my garden.” youngest daughter is growing her
often.” “We are still making memories own consulting firm.
together and call ourselves ‘The Martha Yancey Hellar thought
Karen Ripley Stein: “A great Rosary Beads.’” of us during Reunion. They were
time was had at our class 50 + celebrating the last Hellar wheat
1 reunion. Thanks to the Re- Caren Rule Lezius wrote, “moved harvest. Don’s family has worked
to Germany in 1972 to teach that acreage for over 120 years.
French and English, where I met They are not leaving the farm, just
my German husband of 43 years.

28  Dominican Magazine FALL 2021

“The experiences I had at Dominican made me a better person. The least
I could do is dedicate a flag to a school that’s done so much for me.”

Conrad Sewinski ’12

you is to begin the “Big Purge”. If it Deb Wielgot Schmalholz wel-
doesn’t make you smile, get rid of comed grandchild #2, little brother
it. Keep those letters comin’ Parker John to 3-year-old Penny
Dee. Parents Deon and Matt are
Kathy Klem Large adjusting to having two kids. Deb
is heading into year 13 of teacher
1975 education for Northeastern Illinois
Mary Alice Griesinger University with an occasional gig
Class Agent for Illinois State University.

Nancy O’Connor Spartz: “Jim and I retired and am working hard on
I celebrated our 45th Wedding cleaning out my home in Skokie.
Anniversary. We have many I don’t know why all this stu is
memories of meeting at Rosary there, I only lived here over 50
and having our wedding reception years. I am planning a trip to
there! All my best to my treasured Portugal.
Friends.”
Mary Redmond ’66 MALS ’69, sis-
Karen Gallivan has news about ter of Colleen Redmond MBA ’86,
Dominican. Her nephew, Jacob, died May 30, 2021. The family had
was awarded a Presidential a Memorial service in the Noonan
Scholarship based on academic Reading Room. Mary had been a
achievement and will be joining librarian in Illinois and New York.
the Class of 2025! She had retired and moved closer
to her brother, Bill, in Texas.
Called to Serve Gera-Lind Kolarik is being
featured on Oxygen for her book Marie Matys Rakoczy and her
As a student at Dominican, Conrad Sewinski ’12 took a Greek Freed To Kill, on Chicago serial husband, Joe, are making the best
philosophy class that had a life-changing impact. “We read a killer Larry Eyler. She helped put of Covid by spending periods in
story about Socrates, who had the chance to escape a prison together a crime pattern involving Park Ridge and in Door County.
in Athens but refused to turn his back on the city that had done 25 victims. Her book resulted “I am enjoying photography. You
so much for him,” Sewinski recalled. in confessions released and the can see my work at MarieRakoc
naming of an accomplice. zyImages.smugmug.com. I enjoy
Inspired to give back, Sewinski enlisted in the Army National tennis—thanks to Mrs. Kellogg,
Guard and served as a paralegal specialist for an infantry unit in Kate Coulihan Ficke and her hus- my coach at Rosary.”
Champaign, Illinois. He then earned a law degree at the Univer- band, Jim, made a short trip to the
sity of Illinois and worked as an assistant prosecutor in Peoria Dominican Republic—they found 1976
for several years before signing up for active duty as a judge the resort to be just the right place
advocate candidate. Today, Sewinski is in Germany working in to relax and take it easy, Mary Gallagher Banaszak
client services for the military. Class Agent
Jillann Gabrielle presented her
Last year, while on deployment on a military base in Jordan, one-woman show on Jackie Ken- Mary Gallagher Banaszak:
Sewinski flew a US flag over the base and dedicated it to nedy Onassis. It was a small group “Greetings to all 1976 alumni!!
Dominican. “The experiences I had at Dominican made me a that gathered to see the perfor- Rosary College remains in my heart.
better person,” he said. “The least I could do is dedicate a flag to mance, friends, and neighbors Sister Mary Mulhern was instru-
a school that’s done so much for me.” along with a group from Domini- mental in providing guidance. Af-
can—Kate Coulihan Ficke, Judy ter graduation my husband, Ron-
Pat Harnett Farrell MALS ’81, Al and I returned from Asheville ald and I had our fourth child. Our
wrote “I cannot believe that 50 and Atlanta after helping our Hansel Keeley, Marianne Daniels move to CA allowed me to receive
years have not gone by, but that is son, Tom and his family, move Hansel, and me. my Master’s in Special Education
the sign of true friendship. Saint so that he could take a position at the University of the Pacific. Job
Catherine of Siena said, ‘When with Grady Hospital. He is excited Judy Hansel Keeley was excited opportunities opened, allowing me
you find what you are meant to about the new position as a trauma to share her news—brand-new to be a Certified Learning-
be, you will set the world on fire.’ surgeon and he will be teaching granddaughter—Hannah born Disabled teacher in California,
We must have been gifted with the the Emory Medical School resi- June 29, 2021. Judy’s daughter Alabama, and Chicago. I worked
Spirit of Catherine.” dents. My best advice to each of Shannon Keeley ’18 and her hus- at West Aurora High School as
band, Jacob are the proud parents. an Educational Diagnostician.

Dominican Magazine FALL 2021 29

class news “The award was a reminder of the possibility for impact that I have as a teacher.
And it’s lovely to think that I’ve made some sort of difference.”

Ashley McCall MAT ’14

A Golden Moment Retired, we left to Florida. Ronald to see the Van Gogh exhibit and
and I have 13 grandchildren. We tour the botanical gardens. “My
Ashley McCall MAT ’14 has a passion for teaching and have had travel opportunities in sister Kay lost her husband so Joe
cares deeply about educational access and equity. So when and outside of the US. Retirement and I traveled to Chicago to help
the third-grade teacher at Chicago’s Chavez Multicultural has allowed me to discover new her organize her house.” Their son
Academic Center learned that she’d won a 2021 Golden Apple talents, having produced plays for Rick Cortina ’06 MBA ’08 and his
Award for Excellence in Teaching, she saw it as validation of our theatrical group.” wife, are doing well.
everything she’s been working for.
1979 Sybil Leak Davis sent news. “My
“The award was a reminder of the possibility for impact that youngest daughter graduated
I have as a teacher,” McCall said. “And it’s lovely to think that I’ve Hilary Ward Schnadt from Syracuse University, with
made some sort of di erence.” Class Agent honors. So proud of her and
anticipating her next journey. Now
Beyond the classroom, McCall works tirelessly on educa- I am delighted to be able to con- I’m in my garden full time. This is
tional policy issues. A 2016 Teach Plus Illinois Teaching Policy gratulate so many classmates on my passion to grow and share with
Fellow, she’s a teacher representative on the board of Teach Plus their achievements. First let me of- my friends.”
and works to advance policies that promote equitable schools fer condolences to Robin Nystrom,
by knocking on doors, hosting meetings, co-authoring policy who lost her father, and to Lynette Margery Doss reported “I’m one
briefs and more. Cabell, who lost an aunt. of the retirees. COVID was enough
for me to call it a day. I started
“Teachers are natural organizers and policymakers,” McCall Karen Allegra Davy has a new my career in the days of AIDS &
said. “We are constantly working with networks of students and novel coming out: The Hawthorne watched colleagues & students
families and advocating for their needs.” School by Sylvie Perry. “The book succumb. I predict COVID will
is a psychological thriller, and follow a similar pattern. I’ve been
The Golden Apple Award honors outstanding teachers since it’s a new genre, my publish- participating in online training
who have lasting, positive e ects on students’ lives and school er asked me to choose a new pen (currently yoga teacher training)
communities. As an award recipient, McCall received a cash name.” & facilitating online development
award and a paid sabbatical to take classes at Northwestern for educators. I’m enjoying a life
University. Ann Van Hoomissen Bixby, of leisure—lunches with friends &
who handles production for the staying up late!”
Idaho Catholic Register, saw her
publication win five awards, and Sheliah Wright Drewienkowski
three honorable mentions from the sent “Greetings from Arizona. My
national Catholic Media Confer- husband and I moved to Arizona.
ence. “For the first time, one of Great to be away from the humid-
the first-place awards was for an ity and hurricanes in Florida. We
entire issue. Working during a are at 3450 feet elevation. Beauti-
pandemic makes these even more ful scenery and community.”
valuable!”
Bernadette Stepnowski
Barb Bowers has made a big Freeman continues to create her
transition. “After more than 40 fine art collages. Her work has
years working with the airlines, I been exhibited through several
accepted an awesome retirement group exhibitions. Learn more
from Delta. I am enjoying watching from her blog: http://
our two grandchildren, swimming www.deco-collage.com/blog
and gardening. My husband and I
have traveled extensively, so it was Nancy Greco will be onstage. She
very strange to be grounded. We’re is preparing a monologue called
so glad restrictions are lifting.” “15 Minutes,” from the play Talking
With. She expects to play a nun in
Bridget Wolter Cortina MBA Late Night Catechism and adds
’82 and Joe Cortina MBA ’82 “The interactive monologue show
are “retired and happy.” Joe takes is moving to the Greenhouse
great care of “a small commu- Theatre in Chicago.”
nity vegetable garden.” They are
looking forward to a trip to Miami

30 Dominican Magazine FALL 2021

Helen Hollerich retired a second is a sophomore at UNC Chapel Advising & First-Year Experience Graduate Alumnae/i
time from a Milwaukee school Hill and our son is a freshman at at Dominican University. Class News
where she had been working Roanoke College.”
in the business office. She is in Karolina Haas Siarka had a great School of
the process of relocating to the Darlene Ward has earned her time ringing in the New Year by Social Work
Chicagoland area. Academy of Health Information giving birth to Dylan Thor Haas.
Professionals (AHIP) certification Karolina and her family have pur- Ciara Ward ’14: “I am starting
Margi Sirovatka enjoys her from the Medical Library Associa- chased a home in Spring Grove, IL. my own private practice. I will be
retirement. “Reading Giono’s tion’s Credentialing Committee, an offering individual therapy, cou-
Le Hussard sur le Toit about organization for health information Jill Jepsen Panzica and her hus- ple’s counseling, career coaching,
the cholera epidemic in France. professionals. band Anthony Panzica ’04 recently anger management classes, par-
Studying chronic pain and the welcomed their newest child, Ro- enting classes, and CPR classes.
brain’s neuroplasticity. Long 2004 meo Reign Panzica, into the world. Here’s my website: www.caringcc.
hikes and bike rides!” Congrats! com”
Joe Bruno, Brandy Foster
Hugh Toner MBA ’87 Class Agents 2008 Luradean Morris Smith ’19 plans
MCR ’19 is bucking retirement. to begin classes in 2022 toward
“I’ve accepted the fact that I Susan Schwarting ’74 and Sarah Eileen Terrien, Catherine Calixto a Graduate Certificate in Trauma
probably will never retire, but I Schwarting ’09 are offering Class Agents and information studies.
seem to be working harder than courses through Social Work PRN
ever. I hope that everyone has that qualify for CEUs for Social Seth Fallik became Associate School of
weathered COVID and that I get Workers and Nurses. Susan and Professor with tenure and the Information Studies
to see everyone soon.” Sarah are co-owners of The Center Undergraduate Program Coordi-
for Serenity. nator for the Bachelor of Arts in Indiana University of Pennsyl-
I have taken on a couple of Criminal Justice at Florida Atlantic vania announced that Dr. Lara
projects. I’m producing the 2006 University. Seth also co-authored Luetkehans MALIS ’92, dean of
newsletter of the Illinois State Police-Community Relations in IUP’s College of Education and
Beekeepers Association. A retired Diane Schultz Meske, Annie Times of Crisis: Decay and Reform Communications, will serve as
professor recruited me to her Hughes Halsema in the Post-Ferguson Era. Interim Provost and Vice Presi-
project to address the underrep- Class Agent dent for Academic Affairs.
resentation of women in Wiki- Emily Pendse Zeno: “Celebrating
pedia, by helping to get 1,000 Derek Schriewer & his wife Amanda one year as Human Resources Eugene Giudice MLIS ’07 was
women in religion included. welcomed Roman Schriewer into Manager at Coffman Truck Sales/ awarded the Advocate of the Year
the world! Derek and his realty GMC in Aurora, IL. Celebrating one Award by the Private Law Librari-
Congratulations to all the 79ers team sold over $20M in property year in our new home as well!” ans and Information Professionals
“keepin’ on keeping on.” Please for the 5th straight year. Missouri Special Interest Section of the
stay in touch! REALTORS elected Derek to 2022 Angela Frys Murphey and her American Association of Law
Treasurer where he will progress husband welcomed their first baby, Libraries.
1989 to 2024 President of the state’s Sophia Eleni Murphey into the
largest trade association. world on May 27, 2021. Brennan School of
Garett Auriemma Business
Class Agent 2007 Kyle Stone: and his wife, Steph-
anie welcomed baby girl, Harley Kara Brown MBA ’17, Founder and
Bill Schmidt and Shauna Stephanie Adams Taylor, Mark Quinn Stone. Her siblings Kylanie Chief Executive Officer of Lead
Keilman Schmidt ’91 became Carbonara, Stephanie Lieberman (4) and Bentley (2) are loving their Coverage, has announced that
grandparents for the first time. Class Agents new baby sister. the Atlanta Business Chronicle
Jameson John Schmidt was born recognized Lead Coverage as a
on June 22, at 8.1 lbs. and 19.5 Mark Carbonara completed his Michol Smith Whitney: “I pub- “2021 Pacesetter.
inches. Doctorate of Education in Higher lished the children’s book series,
Education Administration through Nova 2020 which looks at the
1996 Northern Illinois University. Mark surreal events of the year 2020.
serves as the Director of Academic In each story, the main character
Jennifer Utterback Davis is being taught how to see hope in
Class Agent even the worst times.”

Nicole Flessor Tonn: “Josh Tonn
’95 and I celebrated our 25th
anniversary. And we are empty
nesters this year. Our daughter

Dominican Magazine FALL 2021  31 

THE LORD IS CLOSE TO THE BROKENHEARTED AND SAVES THOSE WHO ARE CRUSHED IN SPIRIT

PSALM 34:18

in sympathy

Alumnae/i Diane Noe Deering ’73 Grandparent of Spouse of
Dean Rockwood MALS ’75 David Capizzi MBA/JD ’03 Judy Vittitoe Ala MALS ’70
Marie Costigan Sunderland ’40 Eileen Schwerdtfeger Alsen Kimberly Capizzi MSA ’07 Barbara Besserer Bourjaily ’58
Doris Boughton Hullihan ’43 Ryan Wilder ’19 Maureen O’Rourke Cannon ’66
Catherine Culligan Driessen ’44 MALS ’76 Eleanor Durkin Casella ’44
Marie Patke Nickels ’44 Laura Tressler Rogers MALS ’76 Parent of Mary Wingfield Grace ’66
Mary Colnar Darovic ’48 Julienne Baron Monroe MALS ’77 Marie Lang Hatcher MALS ’71
Colleen Cleary Regele ’48 Julia Faust MALS ’78 Sara Miller Acosta * Karin Vagenius Kent ’74
Lois Gorin Cuttone ’49 Priscilla Wilder Andre MALS ’79 Beronica Avila MLIS ’20 * Mary Therese Connolly Kinder ’66
Audrey McKeever Hackett ’49 William Garrison MALS ’80 Sue Ann Capizzi MSA ’86 James Miller *
Sr. Mary Alice Neylon, OP ’49 Joyce Beall Lankton MALIS ’82 Roberto Curci * Patricia Quaid O’Shea ’66
Rosemary Murphy Kaenel ’50 Douglas Ritchey MALIS ’83 Pamela Dieschbourg ^ Mary Ann Nash Parolyn ’75
Norinne Barrett Shively ’50 Jane Jurgens MALIS ’85 Barbara Jean Balaskas Fox ’82 Margaret Melancon Patterson ’63
Joan Lawley Dunne ’51 Rosemary Grant Whitney MALIS ’87 Mark Gordon ’92 Mary Mill Phelan ’64
Mary Ellen Hayes ’51 Elin Alexanderson Frymoyer Grace Irizarry ’19 * Kathleen Gudel Rockwood MALS ’75
Holly Woodcock Kempner ’51 Gloria Gordon Kapsa ’95 Birgit Sweeney ^
Joanne Hipelius Raschke ’51 MALIS ’88 Mary Komparda ^
Alfia Giannasi Sassetti ’51 Michelle Mauro ’89 Jamie Kempner Konker University Friends
Lois MacDonald Simms ’51 (MHS) Barbara Maslanka Entler ’91 Virginia Cassin
Eileen Mallon Schiess ’52 Helja Ruotsalainen Herranen MFA/Schifanoia ’76 Richard Driehaus
Nancy Hartman Wilson ’52 Ann Hullihan Lee MALS ’77 John G. Eager
Olga Dettloff Brock ’53 MALIS ’91 Susan Kreuz McCoyd ’69 Sr. Maureen Fay, OP +
Joan Daley Lee ’53 Thomas Bobbitt ’92 Robin Nystrom ’79 James E. Harrington (MHS)
Sr. Philip Mary Reilly, OP ‘53 Vladimir Kernerman MLIS ’94 Claressa Padilla * Marjorie Joy
Sally Beaton Beckman ’54 James Kilburg MBA ’99 Juan Rosario * Beverley Kroll
Arlene Jecmen Fencl ’54 Pamela Redmond MSPED ’99 Claudia Roberts Ruoff MAEd ’14 Sr. Catriona MacLeod, OP +
Joan Kirges Hansen ’54 Jean Fengler MLIS ’04 Margaret Ryzewski ^ Michael Poehlman (MHS)
Charlene Bianchi Dowley ’55 Edward Maroney MAT ’08 Mary Alice Ryzner Stone ’81 Jim Sweeney
Roberta Metz ’56 Demirhan Tunc MBA ’17 * Charlie Stoops * Peter Wrenn +
Catherine Travaglini ’56 Mickey Sweeney *
Maureen Murray O’Bryan ’58 Family member of Diana Tual ’80, MBA ’83 + Former Trustee
Marie Francona Beger ’59 Joy Wilder * (T) Current Trustee
Jean Reardon Baumann ’61 Stephen Clark ’79, MBA ’85 Gary Wojciechowski MBA ’05 * Staff/Faculty member
Mary Mazur Berowski MALS ’61 Dianne Costanzo ^ ** Student
Marybeth Ryan Kirchner ’61 Sharon Begg Kilburg ’64 Sibling of ^ Friend
Sr. Elizabeth Toohey, OP ’61 Kevin McCoyd + Claire Daley Archibald ^ (FS) Founding Sister
Sr. Angela Donovan, OP ’62 Jean O’Shaughnessy Murray ’60 Michele Murray Eckert ’63 (MHS) Mazzuchelli Heritage Society
Sr. Dorothy Clare Zuleski, OSF, Paula Nickels ^ Kathleen Murray Gazzolo ’60 (NGA) Non-graduating Alumna
Alberto Padilla * Susan Koch ^
MALS ’64 Barbara Nash Pozzi ’72 Ann Reardon Murphy ’61
Katherine Kahler Matthews ’66 (MHS) Kristen Hansen Rodenbostel ’03 Lisa Petrov *
Mary Redmond ’66, MALS ’69 (MHS) Mary Jo Schuler + Jeanne Barrett Pridmore ’52
Sr. Joanne Andiorio, RSM, MALS ’67 Catharine Stewart- Roache ’61 Elizabeth Silk *
Marizetta Robinson Kenney ’67, Keli Allen Wojciechowski ’93, Martha Kahler Van Ness ’71

MALS ’68 MBA ’99
Elizabeth Waters Gallanis MALS ’69
Mara Moroney McHugh ’69
Marguerite Iskenderian MALS ’71
Mary Brady Meyer ’71
Carol Dunham Strauss MALS ’71
Frances Lee Penny Wade Marek ’72

32 Dominican Magazine FALL 2021

Announcing
DU NETWORK

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ADVANCE MENTOR
Your Career DU Students

Join now at Dominican Magazine FALL 2021 33
DUNetwork.org

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dom.edu

OUR MISSION PMJBEE10/2124M
As a Sinsinawa Dominican–sponsored institution, Dominican University
prepares students to pursue truth, to give compassionate service and
to participate in the creation of a more just and humane world.

For a full schedule, visit
events.dom.edu

Mazzuchelli Lecture Lund-Gill Lecture

Patrick B. Reyes Luis Argueta

Thursday, November 4, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, November 18, 7:00 p.m.
Presented Online Martin Recital Hall

Mamma Mia! President’s Holiday Concert Kate Bowler

Fri-Sun, November 12-14 A Carpenters Christmas Wednesday, March 2, 2022
Fri-Sun, November 19-21 Presented Online
Lund Auditorium Sunday, December 12, 7:30 p.m.
Lund Auditorium

Albertus Magnus Lecture Austin Channing Brown

Rev. Roger Haight, SJ, PhD Tuesday, February 9, 2022
Presented Online
Tuesday, November 16, 5:00 p.m.
Presented Online