S P R I N G
2 0 1 6
The Winona State University Magazine
The Scientific
EDGE
INSIDE
Education Village: Innovative Teacher Preparation
Photo by Mary Farrell. Used with permission.
Cover photo by Ka Vang ‘16
Contents: Spring 2016 Page 12
Reinventing the Way We Teach Education Village awaits $25.3 million Minnesota bonding bill to launch Phase II.
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The Scientific Edge MS student research team on path to success through experiential learning.
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A Story Well Told There is nothing quite as enjoyable as a story well told, and an anonymous philanthropist has put his money where the words are.
Current Headlines.........................................4 Warrior Highlights........................................7
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Warrior Spotlight..........................................9
True Grit
I Love WSU.................................................10 Class Notes ...............................................23
WSU Grad gets back behind the wheel after horrific accident.
In Memoriam .............................................27
The Winona State University Magazine
Editor: Mary Malloy Creative Design: Pat Malotka, Kristi Gudmundson Writers: Mary Malloy, Joel Badzinski Alumni Relations Director: Heather Kosik Assistant Director: Tracy Hale Assistant: Tanya Berzinski
Winona Currents is published by Winona State University’s Division of University Advancement and is distributed to more than 46,000 alumni and friends of Winona State University.
Currents is copyrighted material. Articles may be reprinted with permission. Comments on this publication should be directed to: WSU-University Advancement, PO Box 5838, Winona MN 55987-5838; by email: currents@winona.edu; online: alumni.winona.edu. Address changes and Class Notes should be directed to the Alumni Relations Office.
winona.edu/currents
POSTMASTER: If undeliverable as addressed, please send Form 3579 to Alumni Relations. PO Box 5838, Winona MN 55987-5838. Winona State University is an equal opportunity educator and employer. This document can be made available in an alternative format to individuals with disabilities by contacting the magazine staff at the address above.
@winonastateU
Current News Dr. Ron Dempsey Joins University Advancement President Scott R. Olson. “The most recent fiscal year represented WSU’s most successful fundraising year ever, thanks to our dedicated team in the University Advancement division and Gary Evans, who has served as Interim Vice President for Advancement since January 2015.” Dempsey most recently served as the Vice President for Advancement and University Development at Southern Polytechnic State University, Marietta, Georgia. Dempsey expressed his enthusiasm at joining the Winona State community of learners, “Winona State University has a national reputation as a top-tier comprehensive university and I am excited Dr. Ron Dempsey about becoming as part of such a wellrespected institution. I look forward to Winona State University announces the working with President Olson and the appointment of Ron Dempsey to the advancement staff as we continue to carry position of Vice President for Advancement our mission by developing relationships, and Executive Director of the WSU communicating the extraordinary value of Foundation in February. our academic program, and inviting others to support the university. “Dr. Dempsey brings with him nearly 30 years of experience in higher education Dempsey received his Bachelor of and a strong track record of reimagining Arts (Psychology) from Wake Forest and strengthening development University, North Carolina; his Master of programs,” said WSU
Arts (Sociology) from the University of Louisville, Kentucky; his Master of Science (History and Sociology of Science and Technology) from the Georgia Institute of Technology; his Doctorate of Philosophy (Sociology of Religion) from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky; and will complete his Doctorate of Philosophy (Sociology of Science and Technology) from Georgia Institute of Technology in 2016.
“I believe Dr. Dempsey’s leadership will build on this strength and bring Winona State to the next level.” — WSU President Scott R. Olson “As Vice President for University Advancement, one of my main roles is to make connections,” said Dempsey. “I look forward to working with our students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, community members, legislators and friends of Winona State University to help connect the needs of the institution with available external resources, to develop partnerships with industry and benefactors, and to learn about student needs and how WSU can better serve students.”
WSU Ranks 3rd on Niche’s List Winona State University is ranked third out of 10 on Niche’s Best Public Institutions in Minnesota list for 2016. Based on rankings by students, WSU received an overall grade of a B. WSU received an A- in campus quality, on-campus housing, technology, and transportation. The university also received a B or above grade in overall health and safety, athletics, parking, and local area. Niche Colleges aims to help people make decisions about neighborhoods, K-12 schools, colleges, and
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WSU Currents • currents.winonastateu.com
universities through reviews from everyday experts. The website was founded in 2002 by Carnegie Mellon University students, originally as CollegeProwler.com.
Meet WSU Development Directors
direct and immediate impact on our students and university,” Jokela said. “Every gift, no matter the size, truly does make a difference.” Debbie Block’s professional development experience spans 16 years, all at WSU, with the past four years as a director of development. Block finds it rewarding playing a role in connecting donors’ passions with meaningful ways to support students.
Jeff Bartholomew, Cindy Jokela, Debbie Block, Robert Christiano
Winona State University relies on the generosity of donors to support its mission, but it also relies on the tireless work of its development team to inspire generosity and connect passion with possibility. The advancement team recently added a new director of development, Jeff Bartholomew, to create a team of four directors dedicated to WSU’s philanthropy mission. Bartholomew graduated from WSU in 1987 with a Bachelor of Arts in sociology. He has spent most of his career in the nonprofit sector, specifically as the executive director for multiple YMCAs in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Before coming back to WSU, he was the Executive Director at the United Way in Winona. Bartholomew said for him a career in philanthropy is about personal happiness, professional challenges, and community impact. “I have been blessed by the success I have achieved in the field of development and more importantly matching donor’s interest with their capacity to give,”
Bartholomew said. “There is nothing like developing long-term relationships with those that share common vision and can dream.” Bartholomew said sharing in that vision with WSU will be important to him because of his alumni status. For the other members of the advancement team, helping WSU continue its vision through working with donors and supporters fuels them as professionals.
Block is inspired by alumni and friends who invest in students and the university. “For me, watching relationships develop between donors and students is special. There are so many heartwarming stories about the connections made and maintained over many years because of philanthropy,” Block said. “I can honestly say that every gift makes a difference. Private support funds a margin of excellence that differentiates WSU and our students. Each of us can positively impact the lives of others by sharing our time, talent, and treasure. It feels good to give back.” Robert Christiano is an alumnus of WSU with a bachelor’s degree in mass communication and a master’s degree in counselor education. Christiano served as the graduate assistant in the WSU communications office before becoming a director of development in October 2014.
Cindy Jokela has worked in university development for over 20 years, including the last nine at WSU. She has a bachelor’s degree in language and literature from Yale University.
Christiano said philanthropy is vital to the future of WSU. He thinks it is important to create an awareness and culture of giving in the WSU community.
For Jokela, it is a privilege to see the impact of philanthropy not only on the recipients who benefit directly, but also on those who give. There is joy and often great meaning for donors when they can help make a life-changing opportunity and education possible for WSU students. “Those who give to the WSU Foundation can feel confident that their gift has a
“Nothing makes me happier than seeing the direct impact a gift has on our students,” Christiano said. “Each day, I am energized by the generosity and selflessness of our donors. It is so rewarding to partner with them as they choose to support WSU’s mission. We are truly a community of learners who continue to improve our world.”
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Current News Students Reap Benefits of Waddle
Chris Cichosz appointed Director of Security A Winona native, Cichosz graduated from Cotter High School. He went on to receive an associate’s degree in Law Enforcement from Rochester Community and Technical College and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and sociology from the University of Wyoming. Cichosz also attended St. Cloud State University, where he received his master’s degree in public safety executive leadership.
Winona State University’s women’s track and field team was awarded more than $15,000 in scholarships through proceeds from the eighth annual Warrior Waddle 5K. Over the last eight years, the Warrior Waddle 5K has raised more than $100,000 for Women’s Track and Field Scholarships.
Prior to coming to WSU, Cichosz had worked for the Winona County Sheriff’s Office since 2001. Previous law enforcement appointments include: assistant detention deputy, patrol deputy, K-9 handler, narcotics/violent crimes investigator, chief deputy.
Sullivan Receives Friend Award The Friend Award is given to individuals who have served the Special Education Department. Former honorees include people who have helped with program approval, served on the advisory council, or taught as adjunct professors. The honoree is determined by a nomination from a faculty member and a vote by the department. Kathy Sullivan is a retired WSU librarian. She was the College of Education liaison and was helpful for graduate students working on their professional papers. She continues to support the department and has donated an entire bookcase of science fiction and fantasy books to an after-school program at the Winona lowincome housing authority.
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“Our sponsors, volunteers, participants and every individual who helps put
teams together help us create such a successful event,” said Kathy Hovell, one of the organizers of the Warrior Waddle. “We are so thankful for their help, contributions and dedication every year.” The ninth annual Warrior Waddle 5K is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 15. Registration will be available later this spring.
CLSC Accreditation Awarded Winona State University’s Clinical Laboratory Science Completion program (CLSC) was honored by the National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) with the NAACLS Accreditation Award. Inspectors from NAACLS spent three days on campus examining the curriculum, the laboratory and instrumentation, and conducting reviews with the students, advisory board, and faculty. The CLSC program was awarded with the maximum five-year award, which covers WSU through 2019.
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The CLSC program provides a focused program of study designed to provide associate level Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLTs) the opportunity to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree. The CLSC program is part-time with online components to meet the needs of the working MLT. With the online delivery, students can seek their degree from all over the state and nation. With this accreditation, WSU will increase the workforce pool from lower paying jobs at the two-year level in the lab to higher paying jobs at the four-year level.
Doctor of Nursing Practice Students Take Third Place
Doctor of Nursing Practice Students Kimberly Langer and David Steele received third place in the Doctoral Student Poster Exchange in March at the Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS) 40th Annual Research Conference in Milwaukee, Wis. Their poster was titled, “Applying the Evidence in Treatment of Acute Uncomplicated Bronchitis in Emergency Medicine." The significant findings within this project have changed the care approach for adults diagnosed with uncomplicated bronchitis in the project setting. MNRS is comprised of researchers within and outside the 13-state Midwest region and is a premiere research society that develops scholars, drives science, and leads innovation to improve the health of all people. All research presented at MNRS conferences have been chosen through peer review.
WSU Rated Best Value Winona State University has been identified by College Values Online as having one of the best value bachelor’s degrees in parks, recreation, and leisure studies in their 2016 ranking. Winona State University was ranked 13 out of a pool of nearly 150 schools. The ranking considered tuition, financial aid, return on investment, and the number of minors, concentrations, or areas of emphases offered. Winona State University offers students earning their bachelor’s degree in recreation concentrations in recreation and tourism, therapeutic recreation, and adventure tourism. Graduates of the program have taken advantage of career opportunities with the US Fish and Wildlife Services, USDA Forest Service, Minnesota Recreation and Park Association, National Alliance for Youth Sports, and the American Camp Association. For more information visit collegevaluesonline.com
Kosik Named Alumni Relations Director Heather Kosik is no stranger to WSU. Kosik received her BS Paralegal degree from WSU in 2008, and worked in the WSU Admissions Office as a Heather Kosik counselor while completing her MS in Counselor Education. She left WSU for a short stint as a Future Center Advisor at La Crosse Promise, a private sector organization that works to strengthen community and improve the quality of life through a strong commitment to education. Kosik returned to WSU in March 2012 as the Associate Director of Alumni Relations, and moved into the Interim Director role three years later. She was appointed Director last July. Kosik, who grew up in Wabasha, Minn., and her husband, Royce, have two boys, ages four and two, and live in Fountain City, Wis.
Winonan Brings Home Awards The Winona State University student newspaper, The Winonan, placed in four categories in the Best of Show competition at the annual Associated Collegiate Press - Best of the Midwest Conference in Minneapolis. The Winonan received seventh place in the category of a four-year weekly newspaper. WSU junior Elizabeth Pulanco received ninth place for feature story; WSU senior Sam Thiel received 10th place for sports story; and WSU junior Sara Tiradossi received seventh place for news story.
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Athletic News Ballard Named Coach of the Year
Winona State Women’s head basketball coach, Scott Ballard, was named the NSIC Coach of the Year, and also earned NCAA Division II Central Region Coach of the Year from the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association. Three of his players earned All-NSIC honors. Ballard earned his first NSIC Coach of the Year honor after guiding the Warriors to their best regular season in program history, compiling a 30-4 overall record with a 20-2 record in NSIC play, winning the program’s first NSIC regular season championship with a three-game cushion. The Warriors began the year by setting a program record with a 13-game winning streak and Ballard led seniors Connor Nagle and Alexis Foley to a total of four NSIC Player of the Week awards this season.
In his 12th season, Ballard earned his 200th victory at Winona State with a win at Bemidji State on January 29 and has a career record of 477-274 in 25 seasons of collegiate coaching. The honor marks WSU’s first NSIC Coach of the Year award in women’s basketball since Terri Sheridan earned the honor in the 1997-98 season. “It has been a wonderful journey throughout the season and this team has set the bar high for future teams in our program!” Ballard said.
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Eisner Scores Successful First Year The Winona State University men’s basketball team took positive steps forward in its first season under Coach Todd Eisner. WSU finished 16-13 overall and 13-9 in the NSIC South, advancing as far as the conference tournament semifinals. “I was very pleased with the way the players handled the transition to a new coach and a new system,” Eisner said. “I was very fortunate to inherit players that were willing to adjust to a different philosophy and work extremely hard on a daily basis to give our team the best chance to improve throughout the season.” Following the end of the regular season, junior forward Kyle Bauman was named All-NSIC Second Team. Bauman, who
is from Wells, Minn., led WSU with 14.2 points and 6.1 rebounds per game. He had three 25-point performances. Bauman will lead a strong returning group for the Warriors in 2016-17, along with juniors Riley Bambenek and Isaiah Gray.
Connor Flack made two late free throws. The Warriors’ season ended with a loss to Augustana in the semifinals.
Eisner, who previously coached at Midland (Neb.), Benedictine (Kan.) and Viterbo (Wis.), joined the WSU program in August 2015. WSU faced a tough early schedule, playing two nationally-ranked teams at a tournament in California in November, then went 4-1 in December. The Warriors won seven of their final nine games. The strong finish included a memorable overtime buzzer-beater by Riley Bambenek. In the NSIC Tournament, WSU defeated Northern State 70-68 when freshman
Todd Eisner “It was important to establish a foundation in Year One so that the players have an understanding of what the expectations are and the plan of action we will implement to move the program forward,” Eisner added. “Having an opportunity to compete for an NSIC championship takes great commitment, dedication, and work ethic from everyone in the program. With the solid core of veteran players returning, we are excited about next year and the opportunity to continue to make improvements in every aspect of our program.”
Long won her first championship in the weight throw as a freshman in 2015. Even more impressive is that she never attempted the weight throw—which is a 20-pound ball on a short chain—before coming to WSU.
WSU has won five individual national titles in women’s track and field. Long owns two, while Alissa Rauch (2015) and Mary Theisen (2011) both won titles in the discus, and Emily King won the weight throw in 2007.
The Not so LONG Road to Success Winona State University sophomore Kaitlyn Long has earned a spot among the top women’s track and field athletes in school history. Long, who competes in throwing events, already has two NCAA Division II national championships and a secure place in the WSU track and field record book. The Cottage Grove, Wis., native won her second national title in the weight throw March 11, 2016, at Pittsburg, Kan. Her winning throw was 74 feet, 5¾ inches, which broke both the school and national meet records and was the best among all divisions this past season. She was named NSIC Indoor Field Athlete of the Year for 2016 and USA Track & Field Minnesota Athlete of the Month for January.
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Athletic News
Black Katts add ACRA 7’s to Accolades The Winona State University Black Katts continued their run as one of the best women’s club rugby teams in Division II in 2015-16. WSU completed an undefeated regular season, then advanced to the national championship. The Black Katts have four runner-up finishes over the past five seasons, with a DII national title in 2013 and their first National DII Championship in 7’s this season. “Success breeds success,” WSU coach Josh Krzewinski ‘99 said. “Every season we try to add one more level to our game.
Our fitness training is a major factor. We strive to be the fittest team on the pitch week in and week out. Another factor is our recruiting and ability to reload with talented players. Because of our reputation, we are seeing more high school rugby players showing interest in playing and studying at Winona State.”
are not on athletic scholarships, practicing three days a week, following structured weight lifting programs, and traveling on the weekends to compete,” he said. “On top of that, most have a job and are great students. Last fall, we held 13 fundraisers to help us get the chance to travel to Colorado and South Carolina. Their dedication is incredible.”
Krzewinski praised the commitment of WSU’s rugby athletes. “These are girls who
Rugby Draws Top Player to WSU Katie Dries ’16 brought an unusual background to the Winona State University Black Katts women’s rugby club team when she joined as a freshman. Dries had actually played the sport growing up. The Black Katts program has been built around student-athletes who typically were high school athletes in other sports like soccer, but are new to rugby. The coaches and veteran players introduce them to the sport and help them develop. It’s a formula that works incredibly well, as WSU has appeared in the Division II final four for five consecutive seasons, with a national championship in 2013. But Dries, who is from Waukesha, Wis., is a rare exception. She converted from soccer
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to rugby as a freshman at Waukesha Catholic Memorial High School and played all four years. When she was looking at colleges, Winona State went to the top of her list because of two superb Katie Dries programs — nursing and club rugby.
two to three times a week and plays matches throughout the fall and winter, traveling around Minnesota and Wisconsin for regular-season matches and as far as Nebraska and Florida for championship rounds.
“Coming in as a freshman to WSU, I looked at the seniors and thought, ‘One day I really want to be like these girls,’” Katie said. “They’re really good role models and we’ve tried to uphold those expectations.”
Dries said the Black Katts focus on dedication and good conditioning. Dries had the opportunity to do her nursing clinical work on the Mayo ClinicRochester cardiac floor this spring and plans on being a nurse practitioner or nursing professor. Rugby has served as an outlet from the intense demands of her major.
Rugby is not a varsity athletic program at WSU, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t demanding. Dries said the team practices
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WSU finished with a 15-1 record and was national runner-up for the 2015 fall season.
Athletic News Rolbiecki Takes Top Honors Winona State University gymnastics coach Beckie Rolbiecki ’77 was named 2016 WIAC (Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference) Coach of the Year, in recognition of a superb season for the Warriors. WSU scored a team-record 191.65 points to place fourth at the NCGA National Championship meet on March 18 in Brockport, N.Y. The points total broke a 16-year-old school record. The Warriors also set new program records for team scores in the floor exercise and uneven bars. Rolbiecki also guided four individual gymnasts to All-American recognition at the national meet, including sophomore
Eboni Jackson, who won the national championship with a record-setting allaround performance that totaled 38.8 points. WSU’s other All-Americans were senior Brooke Hiestand (floor exercise), senior Olivia Cattelino (uneven bars), and
sophomore Katie Pipp (uneven bars). The Warriors placed third at the WIAC conference championships and second at the Best of Minnesota Meet in 2016.
Caught the BIG One The Winona State University team of Cade Laufenberg, a senior from La Crosse, Wis., majoring in Individualized Studies, and Wyatt Stout, a junior majoring in Biology from Winona, won the FLW College Fishing Central Conference Championship in Carlyle, Ill., held in October. The victory earned the club $4,000 and qualified the team for the 2016 FLW College Fishing National Championship.
WSU Currents • Spring 2016
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Reinventing the
Way We Teach
W
21st Century
Education Village Enters Phase II
inona State University College of Education Dean Tarrell Portman knows almost every square foot of the Wabasha HallWabasha Rec-Cathedral School complex a few blocks east of the main campus. She has walked through the buildings countless times, gaining an appreciation of their history while playing a key role in developing their future as the Education Village. “The most exciting thing about the project is being able to think outside the box when it comes to preparing educators,” Portman said. “It’s rare for a College of Education to be able to re-invent itself. This project allows us to maintain our tradition while looking into the future.” The Education Village will continue a legacy of innovative teacher preparation that began more than 150 years ago. Winona State Teachers College was founded in 1858 as the first “normal” school west of the Mississippi, with a mission to train teachers during the country’s expansion into the frontier. Following the sesquicentennial in 2008, WSU began to explore ideas for 21st century teacher preparation, which led to the idea of Education Village.
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in the
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WSU’s plan is to convert 82,000 square feet of the Wabasha-Cathedral buildings into state-of-the-art teaching and learning spaces. Labs, classrooms, and open area will be designed to be integrated and flexible, allowing WSU students to be fully prepared for their teaching environments. The Wabasha and Cathedral buildings have deep roots as educational centers in Winona, dating back to the 1920s, serving as the site of a parochial grade school and Cotter High School. “It is good stewardship to take these buildings and breathe life into them and what is really a wonderful educational history. We are honoring that history of education in Winona and Southeast Minnesota,” Portman said. Education majors make up 20 percent of the WSU student population, reflecting the university’s strong reputation and commitment to training outstanding teachers. Education Village will push WSU ahead even further. WSU received $5.9 million in 2014 for the initial planning and construction phases. Phase II funding of
$25.3 million was recommended in Governor Mark Dayton’s proposed bonding bill released in January 2016, recognition of the project’s importance to WSU and the State of Minnesota. On the timeline currently in place, renovations would begin in the summer of 2016 and the Education Village would be fully operational for the 2018-19 academic year. While the physical work is being done, the WSU College of Education will continue programs already in place, such as Teach21, which includes clinical placement in the student’s first year of study, while developing new, innovative programs designed to maximize the Education Village’s potential. Nicole Nicpon ’16, an elementary education-early childhood development major, has served as a student spokesperson for Education Village and had the opportunity to address Minnesota legislators during the bonding tour stop at WSU in October 2015. “I’m so excited to see the opportunities that will arise for WSU students from this project,” Nicpon said. “I look forward to what it will do for our program and our school. Winona State is already known for great teacher education, this is going to put us light-years ahead.” Portman, along with President Scott Olson, alumni, and current and former COE faculty, envision programming that will cover a broad range of content, including STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), communications, health, music, art, history, social studies, language, physical education, assisted/adaptive learning, and more, while using the new learning spaces and cutting-edge technology. Education Village will also serve as a center for pre-Kindergarten to 12th grade visiting students, workshops, professional development, educational events, and community programs.
“I’m so excited to see the opportunities that will arise for WSU students from this project.” — Nicole Nicpon
“It is the trail that was blazed in 1858,” Portman said. “We’re moving forward on that trail.”
WSU Currents • Spring 2016
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Gets Hansen on the Road Again Justin Hansen ’99 knew he had found his true calling from the moment he put on the uniform of a Wisconsin State Trooper.
J
ustin Hansen graduated from Winona State University, served in the Army, and worked for the Wisconsin Department of Corrections before joining the Wisconsin State Patrol in 2011. The career change came late in life, at age 33, but it was a perfect fit for the Brookfield, Wis., native, whose goals and values had always drawn him to law enforcement and community service. “Once I got out on the road, I felt at home. I was doing what I was supposed to be doing,” Hansen told his hometown newspaper, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Not even a horrific accident that crushed his right leg and nearly cost him his life could keep Hansen out of a patrol car, where he knew he belonged. The recovery was long and often excruciating, and gave him moments of doubt, but on Nov. 8, 2015, wearing a prosthetic leg below his right knee, Hansen returned to full active duty as a trooper. “I treat every day of my life as a blessing from God, because it is,” Hansen said. “I am not guaranteed tomorrow, so make the most out of today. I don’t know what the future holds for me, but I hope my children can always look to me for inspiration
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and guidance as they handle challenges and hardships throughout their lives.”
Discovering WSU Hansen grew up in Brookfield, Wis., and visited Winona State University at the urging of a close friend, Jason Michalak ’99. Hansen was immediately convinced it was where he wanted to spend the next four years. “I was excited to get far enough away from my hometown to start a new chapter of my life, but close enough that I could still come home on weekends if I wanted to,” Hansen said. “My time at WSU was an amazing and exciting experience and I always smile when I think of it.” Hansen, like so many WSU students, loved spending time hiking the bluffs, camping on the river, rollerblading around the lakes, playing softball and hanging out with friends. He took his studies as seriously as his social life, but it took a few tries to zero in on criminal justice as his major. “I didn’t have any idea of what I wanted to do with my career, I
Photo from Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Used with permission.
TRUE GRIT
just wanted to get an education,” he said. “I was going along with the flow my first year-and-a-half or so and I changed my major three times. I took an intro to criminal justice course and started to gain a lot of interest in it.” After graduating from WSU Hansen enlisted in the Army and served in the military police at Fort Hood. That led him to the Department of Corrections and a job as a probation and parole officer. He put in six years there before applying to the State Patrol. “I found the work fit my personality perfectly,” he said.
Tragedy strikes Hansen was patrolling Hwy. 41 near Menasha in northeastern Wisconsin during a snowstorm on Jan. 25, 2014, when he stopped to assist two cars that had spun out. Hansen opened the trunk of his patrol car for orange cones to warn other motorists when another vehicle, coming from behind, lost control and struck Hansen, pinning him between the two cars. “When I regained consciousness after the injury I had zero feeling below my waist,” Hansen recalled. “I was lying face down inside the trunk of my squad and felt someone holding a pressure dressing on my head and could feel blood covering my face. I thought I was paralyzed and would never walk again. As the shock wore off, the pain took over. It was a pain I could never describe.” Hansen said he realized then that he might die from his injuries. “I prayed like I had never prayed before. I swore I could be content never walking again if I could just see my children one more time.” Hansen, who had been assisted by sheriff’s deputies and a driver of one of the cars he’d stopped to help, was rushed to the hospital. Emergency-room doctors saved his life, but his right leg below the knee was lost, his left leg broken, and he had severe cuts and bruises over most of his body.
The long road to recovery The challenges were just beginning. Hansen spent a total of 19 days in the hospital and recalls never sleeping more than two hours a night. Despite being given 10 different types of medications, the pain was almost unbearable. “The recovery process was brutal,” Hansen said. “The hardest part was pretending that I wasn’t in a world of pain and that everything was OK, just to keep my boys from worrying any more than they already were. I stayed positive because of the strength of my family and friends. The outpouring of support from my local community and law enforcement community across the nation helped keep me motivated, too.”
Hansen’s first steps toward full recovery came in March 2014, two months after the accident, when he took his first steps on his prosthetic leg. He was awarded a Purple Heart and returned to work for the State Patrol later in the year on an accident recovery team, collecting and entering data, but was determined to get back on the road as a trooper. On March 24, 2015, Wisconsin State Trooper Trevor Casper was shot and killed in the line of duty during a bank robbery in Fond du Lac, Wis. Hansen had met Casper a few times and decided to “push myself to my limits to honor him.”
Returning to duty
Justin Hansen with his boys, Nicholas, 14, Jacob, 13, and Hunter, 16
The Wisconsin State Patrol has no restrictions on troopers with prosthetic limbs, as long as they are able to meet the fitness requirements. Hansen not only wanted to meet the requirements, but go well beyond. He recruited a fellow trooper to push him through self-defense drills, and made sure he was re-trained on firearms. Hansen said it was important to him to be fully ready to return to active duty. And in November 2015, he did, going solo after four training rides with another trooper. He drives a patrol car fitted to accommodate his left foot for the accelerator and is back working in northeastern Wisconsin, based in Appleton. Hansen’s story of recovery caught the attention of state and local media. He received words of encouragement from Governor Scott Walker and was invited to throw out the first pitch at a Milwaukee Brewers game. It was not about recognition for Hansen, just returning to the profession he feels called to and serving as a positive example to his three teenage sons. He credits his family, including parents James and Judith, his faith, the memory of Trooper Casper, and his fellow officers for guiding him through his incredibly difficult ordeal. “No matter how hard things are or whatever life throws at you, obstacles or challenges, you just have to maintain faith and know there is always someone you can reach out to. Don’t ever give up on yourself.”
WSU Currents • Spring 2016
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The Scientific
EDGE
to a
WSU Education STUDENT RESEARCHERS ON PATH TO SUCCESS
Photo by Ka Vang ‘16
Hunched over a new spinning disk confocal microscope, a cutting edge instrument to observe live specimens with high magnification, resolution, and clarity, Winona State Biology students manipulate in vivo (live) specimens of transparent Zebrafish embryos, in a search for answers to this devastating disease of the central nervous system. Under the uncompromising tutelage of Dr. Jake Hines, Assistant Professor of Biology, they might just succeed.
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4 1: A high-magnification view of a tiny region of the zebrafish spinal cord during the third day of development. The image shows myelinating oligodendrocyte cells (green circles) and their membranous process extensions (green spindly processes). This process is the formation of a myelin sheath. 2: Transparent zebrafish embryo 3,4: One axon that could become a suitable substrate to myelinate has been labeled white with a genetically encoded fluorescent protein.
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A
t first, the subtle blurred vision, inability to maintain concentration, and clumsiness doesn’t trigger any red flags. You chalk it up to fatigue, stress, and a very busy lifestyle. You experience some numbness in your limbs, and you detect a slight tremor in your hand. But all this comes and goes, so you really don’t pay it much mind. But gradually, things get worse and you seek the advice of a physician. After much testing, the diagnosis is a stunner: MS. Multiple Sclerosis. And there is no known cure.
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WSU’s reputation for impactful research draws students to the university’s science programs. And the opportunity for students to gain practical, handson research experience is expanding. Dr. Hines’ MS research takes its place alongside Dr. Osvaldo Martinez’s Ebola virus research, and Dr. Amy Runck’s work on “arrested development” in Eastern Tiger Salamanders, which carries implications on human aging and responses to changing environmental conditions. In order to discover a treatment or cure for any particular disease, you must first fully understand human biology and how cells function. Dr. Hines leads his students into the intricate workings of the human cell in order to successfully conduct the research.
In Search of a Cure MS is a chronic, quite unpredictable and often disabling disease of the central nervous system, which is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. Many experts maintain that MS is an immune-mediated disorder, in which the immune system incorrectly attacks healthy tissue in the central nervous system. Symptoms, like those described earlier, occur when inflammation in the central nervous system is produced by the incorrectly functioning immune system. In
Dr. Jake Hines assists Bailey Duxbury on the spinning disk confocal microscope
Photo by John McKeith
short, the inflammation attacks and damages the protective fatty insulation, known as myelin sheaths, surrounding nerve fibers. When the sheaths become damaged, scar tissue forms (sclerosis) and information from the brain to the nerve is disrupted, causing symptoms to occur. As the inflammation subsides, so too do the symptoms, until the next assault. Eventually, the scar tissue damage accumulates and the symptoms become permanent. Blindness, paralysis, and death are not uncommon outcomes. There are FDA-approved medications that help reduce the number of MS relapses a person experiences, and to delay progression of the disease, to some degree. Dr. Hines and his student research team are looking to develop a means to rebuild the damaged myelin sheaths and restore function. Regeneration of the myelin sheath is the primary goal. If they can generate a drug that robustly stimulates remyelination, it could be administered at any point to repair and restore the lost myelin, which they hope, would eliminate the functional loss felt by the patient. If you eliminate the loss of the myelin sheath, you eliminate the devastation of the disease. Dr. Hines, a first generation graduate from Ellsworth, Wis., completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse. “At first I was going into social studies, then switched to health care — either a doctor or chiropractor,” said Dr. Hines. “But I had two really inspirational professors and I became addicted to science.” Dr. Hines did his graduate work at Mayo Clinic, writing grants for spinal cord research and penning research papers, and completed his post-doctoral
research on nervous system development under Dr. Bruce Appel at the University of Colorado. When an opportunity to move back to the Driftless Region, his roots, surfaced in the WSU Biology Department, Dr. Hines didn’t hesitate. And he brought his love of research with him. “I loved the idea of coming back to a public institution with many first generation students — the first in their family to attend college. I want to make a difference for these students, some who are from my own hometown,” he said. “Some students might not have found their passion and I want to help them find their own internal drive and curiosity.”
The Measurable Benefits of Experiential Learning So how does all this research work, in layman’s terms? “Research projects like this are puzzle pieces,” explained Dr. Hines. “Prior research has been conducted and you build upon the discoveries — and lack thereof — of previous projects. There are hundreds of labs around the world working toward the same goal, but with different approaches. Each finding builds on the last. Up until last year, there were no FDA approved therapies to restore myelin sheaths. One therapy showing promise is in the clinical trial stage now at the University of California, San Francisco.”
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Scientific Edge: Continued from page 17 Dr. Hines’ research team is looking to restore function to already damaged cells. To understand when and how the human cell builds myelin sheath structures, one must look to the embryo where development begins. The students use specific genetically modified Zebrafish they grow and hatch in the WSU lab. Due to genetic engineering, subsets of neural cells glow different colors (green, red) under the microscope, and students can then watch the transparent embryo make myelin sheaths. To learn how the embryo makes myelin, the students inject DNA into the embryos. This DNA could show them something that they’ve never observed before, or could disrupt a particular aspect of the neural cells to learn what is necessary to build a sheath. Student researchers watch the effects of mutations through the specialized spinning disk confocal microscope and record their data.
The original research team of five students, affectionately dubbed “The Fab 5” by Dr. Hines, began the MS project at WSU in January 2015 and had the opportunity to present their research findings last August at the Society for Neuroscience (SfN) Conference in Chicago, with 30,000 professionals in attendance. Every year, SfN acknowledges some of the best research and achievements by neuroscientists around the globe. SfN honors the research of young and senior scientists that expands knowledge of the brain and its functions, outreach programs that educate the public on the importance of neuroscience, and mentoring efforts that cultivate achievement for the next generation of neuroscientists. It turned out to be an amazing experience for these young scientists. “Things kicked off with a two-day research boot-camp where the students learned techniques and discussed the concepts,” Dr. Hines explained. “This set them on a trajectory for success, which is clearly demonstrated by their tremendous progress in the past 14 months.”
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There are five separate projects running concurrently in Dr. Hines’ lab, allowing students of every stage in the education cycle to participate in the research, if they are so inclined. “Students experience the process of asking and answering questions from beginning to end,” Dr. Hines explained. “First
FAB FIVE Maddy Martell ’17
“It is exciting that we are completing novel research that no one else has completed,” said Martell, of Bonduel, Wis. “The uniqueness of the research gives it significance. Each time we learn something new, it’s a small step toward the big picture of developing therapies for MS.” Martell is a Cell and Molecular Biology major who strongly favors Pre-Med, but her research experience with Dr. Hines has offered many more options. She spent last summer interning in a Mayo research lab, a position Dr. Hines helped to arrange. She plans to remain in Winona this summer to continue her WSU research work. “Winona State was the right fit for me. Being involved with Dr. Hines’ research has really opened up doors for me.”
Allie Trudel ’17 Trudel hails from Granite Falls, Minn., and is a Cell and Molecular Biology major. She was in Rochester looking at college possibilities when she decided to swing over to Winona to see WSU, since it was so close. “The campus was beautiful!” Trudel recalled. “Being from a small town, I knew I could make it work here. It was a safe campus and close enough to home.” “Presenting at the SfN Conference was absolutely amazing,” commented Trudel. “It was an extremely beneficial experience for my public speaking and communications skills. It was such a crazy feeling to be in a room of experts in the field of neuroscience and have them interested in what we had to say.” Trudel is headed to medical school, and knows that her time spent at WSU is invaluable. “Being involved with Dr. Hines’ research has been incredible. I never would have realized the opportunities we have to make a real impact.”
Photos by Ka Vang ‘16
Meet the
Why Zebrafish? “You need the simplest model organisms that can satisfy the answers to the questions,” said Dr. Hines. “Zebrafish are ideal for the questions we are asking for several reasons, but perhaps most importantly because we can obtain results much more quickly than we could using mammals such as lab rats or mice. They also form myelin within their first three days when they are still optically transparent, enabling our students to look directly into the live animal to watch myelin sheaths form on nerve axons.”
they need to understand the fundamental question they are going to solve, and then they test it in the lab and hope they learn something new about their universe, and that biology is an approach to life.” Watching the students transform through the years as budding scientists is one of the most rewarding parts of Dr. Hines’ job. “The students have high potential, and for many, this experience in the lab may be their first thought of being a research scientist. Watching them over the course of two or three years, weighing their options, the pros and cons of a career path, is the fun part of my job. I see them transform into adults.”
gain experience in the lab in order to become and remain competitive in a super competitive field, and they must start early. This lab experience helps them to form decisions about their future early and makes them stand out among all those that apply for fellowships and med school.” Long, tedious hours spent in the WSU biology lab by Dr. Hines’ students have provided promising scientific results. It is relatively common to see his students collecting data on microscopes on Friday nights and weekends. “The students are developing a tremendous work ethic, which is a key predictor of success in their futures,” commented Dr. Hines. “And they have made some really important foundational discoveries.”
“Student research opportunities are a critical stepping stone for our students to secure professional internships and fellowships elsewhere,” Dr. Hines said. “Our students must
The benefits to students of such research opportunities are measurable — further indication that experiential learning is critical to WSU student success.
A.J. Treichel ’17 Treichel, who watched his veterinarian dad perform C-sections and helped pull calves, knew at a young age he wanted to study science and either be a PhD or MD, or both. He has set his sights on either neuroscience or surgery. When in high school, he traveled from his hometown of Grand Rapids, Minn., to visit the WSU campus. “The science facilities here are the best I’ve seen. It is what convinced me to attend WSU,” said Treichel. “Until I talked to Dr. Hines a year ago, I didn’t realize how impactful the research being done here is. The spinning disk confocal microscope allows us to do some amazing things, and Dr. Hines has given us so much opportunity. He allows us to discover things for ourselves.”
Environmental Sciences Center, based in La Crosse and Green Bay, Wis.
Bailey Duxbury ’17
Ecology and Environmental Science is the direction Duxbury of Chatfield, Minn., is pursuing. “I’ve always had a passion for science, the outdoors, and ecology, and I want it to be there for future generations,” commented Duxbury. He chose WSU for a very specific reason — the proximity to water, namely, the Mississippi River. “I knew the science facilities were new, and have a good reputation. And they have a good relationship with the Minnesota DNR (Department of Natural Resources), and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Services.” Majoring in Genetics and Cell Biology, Duxbury knows the value of a well-equipped lab. “It is amazing for a school this size to have a piece of equipment (spinning disk confocal microscope) like this and to offer such research opportunities,” he said. “I was able to get lab experience right off the bat.” And that experience has already paid off. Duxbury was hired on this summer by the U.S. Geological Survey, Upper Midwest
And Duxbury isn’t the only Duxbury to choose WSU. Bailey’s sister, Alex, is a member of the WSU volleyball team, and his younger brother, Carter, was just accepted and will play Warrior Football.
Mandie Kaiser ’16 A Biology Allied Health major with a minor in BioChemistry, Kaiser began her research work with Dr. Hines two years ago. This Apple Valley, Minn., native came to WSU for nursing, but was hooked by the research. “The program here is amazing and the town is beautiful,” commented Kaiser. “I love research, but I’m not sure what I want to do yet, so I will take a gap year and work in a lab while I decide.” Presenting at the SfN Conference was the highlight of Kaiser’s year. “I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it was extremely awesome! The people who stopped at our research poster presentation were so interested in our work and they were shocked when they found out we were undergraduates! I was able to carry on a conversation and understand what they (MDs, researchers, PhDs) were saying. Our WSU biology department is awesome!” Kaiser, who thanks to Dr. Hines, spent last summer working in a research lab at the University College of London, commented, “The research opened doors that I never thought possible.”
For more information regarding Dr. Hines and his student researchers, please visit hinesneurolab.com
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A WELL TOLD From the earliest cave drawings to the origination of writing systems and the dawn of the alphabet, humankind has used the written word to chronicle its existence. Memories and traditions of generations of people have been preserved by the written word. Wars have been incited and armistice effected through the written word. The written word has governed humankind from the earliest of times. There is power in the written word. We can visit lands that do not exist; experience life outside our realm; and open the mind to a world of wonder, beauty, and amazement. The written word can, and does, change lives. And that is exactly the hope and intention of an anonymous WSU Foundation donor and WSU graduate who recently established the Creative Writing Contest Fund. This annual/ endowed fund is to encourage, inspire and support students in their writing and literary pursuits, while helping them financially to reach their educational goals. Three literary prizes will be awarded yearly, one each for poetry, fiction, and non-fiction, with a fourth option for play or screenwriting. WSU creative writing faculty members are charged with reviewing and screening all manuscripts, with external judges chosen from visiting writers selected by the WSU English Department. Student winners of the contest will each receive a $1,500 scholarship and have their manuscripts published in Satori, WSU’s fine arts magazine. “There is nothing more enjoyable than a story well told,” said an anonymous benefactor, who grew up in a single-parent family near the WSU campus. “The campus (then known as Winona State College) at the time was a small collection of buildings divided by intersecting streets,” recalled the benefactor who now resides in Arizona. “The college was a physical presence in my life for as long as I can remember. Whether it was the glow from the lights of the football field, walking through campus on my way to junior high school, or playing on the empty campus during the summer months, Winona State was always there.”
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Life was different then. There were no personal communication devices. Children relied on the power of their imagination and books. “Growing up, reading was not only an escape, but was also one of the ways I learned about a world outside my hometown. Early in life you hear about the power of words, but the more I read the more I grew to appreciate the beauty of words.” “My mother, who was and remains a voracious reader, encouraged me early on by dragging me to the library and bringing books home for me to read. I was lucky to grow up where I did and I was lucky to attend WSU. Like a lot of people, I had to work to put myself through college. My work schedule, combined with other commitments, left little free time.” Several years ago this WSU benefactor started thinking about doing something to show appreciation to the university, and so the first annual WSU Creative Writing Contest was conceived. Supervised by WSU English Professor Elizabeth Oness, the first contest, held in February, put the students’ writing skills to the test. English Department faculty screened the nearly 100 submissions down to 10, and passed the finalists to the visiting judges, each an acclaimed published author in their own right. The judges did not have an easy time adjudicating the entries. Three winners eventually emerged and three very excited students were awarded $1,500 scholarships. “My colleagues and I were pleased to have so many wonderful submissions for the first Creative Writing Contest,” said Oness. “We have a really talented and energetic group of students, and we feel fortunate to have them become the beneficiaries of such a generous gift.” In conclusion, the benefactor commented, “As a student, I left little imprint on the college, but as I’ve grown older and enjoyed some success in life, I realize the college left a major impact on me. I hope that the writing contest will be not only an opportunity, but also a challenge to students and faculty alike. I’m not sure where it will take us, but I’ll bet it will be interesting and fun. You never know, the writing contest may even change someone’s life.”
Photos by Nicole Cullinan ‘16
THE WRITTEN WORD IS THE FIRST TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPED BY HUMANKIND.
MEET THE WINNING WRITERS Ana Alexander ’16 ENGLISH: WRITING MAJOR WINSTED, MINN. When Alexander was seven years old, she wrote a letter to J.K. Rowling in crayon, giving her plot suggestions for future Harry Potter novels. She has an affinity for puns, an obsession with the Roaring Twenties, and loves coffee. She is an advertisement representative and features editor for WSU’s weekly student newspaper, The Winonan, the prose editor for Satori, WSU’s fine arts magazine, and a member of Sigma Tau Delta.
Alexander won in the category of nonfiction essay with “Stuck in the Clouds,” selected by creative nonfiction author Kent Cowgill. “Ana Alexander’s essay stood out on a number of fronts,” said Cowgill. “It shows a rich command of interesting narrative detail; its pacing, handling of dialogue, and humorous touches were all unusually compelling for an undergraduate writer; and not least, it treated the sky-diving experience with both the enthusiasm of a budding addict and the kind of objective distance that attracts those readers, like myself, who find the adventure both tempting and terrifying to try.”
Kaysey Price ’16 LITERATURE AND WRITING MAJOR DETROIT LAKES, MINN. Price’s first poem was a four line, 2nd Grade composition about her non-existent pet dog. She is a features writer for The Winonan, a mentor for Teen Voices, the poetry editor for this year’s Satori, and a member of Sigma Tau Delta. Her interests include quoting Gilmore Girls, making puns, exploring what goes unsaid, and deconstructing beliefs that are taken for granted. Price took top category for her poetry submissions, selected by poet Betsy Wheeler. “The wholly original voice of Kaysey Price’s poems struck me immediately -- their attention to rhythm and sound, their inventive use of verbs, and their delight in life and language. I wanted to read them aloud, repeatedly, and to inhabit the world they explore,” Wheeler commented.
Winning Writers: Continued on page 22
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Winning Writers: Continued from page 21
Leah Perri ’16 ENGLISH MAJOR KENOSHA, WIS. Perri earned a scholarship for her short story, “Date Night,” selected by fiction writer Patrick Hicks. Perri is a Kenosha, Wis., native and a senior at WSU, where she will graduate with a B.A. in English: Writing. She is currently the education reporter for the Winona Daily News and has over 200 clips, ranging from explanatory pieces on K-12 education to larger projects, such as a series of vignettes on returned Peace Corps volunteers. Other notable experience includes writing for Project FINE’s Hearing the Voices, a project that features the stories of 15 Winona County refugees and immigrants, and mentoring area high school students in a poetry group called Teen Voices. Perri is also a writing tutor on campus. She plans to travel and work on organic farms in Europe for a year before pursuing a communications career at a nonprofit organization focusing on sustainability. “Leah Perri’s marvelous story, ‘Date Night,’ explores issues of love and loss, growing older and letting go. With clear prose and a poignant narrative, she introduces two neighbors that don’t seem to have much in common, and yet they need each other. A beautiful story that says much about the human condition,” stated Hicks.
SO, YOU WANT TO BE A ADVICE FROM THE EXPERTS Turn off the TV and read. The way you learn how to write is by observing the work of other writers.
Master the art of description. It is the storyteller’s golden egg.
Disconnect from the world. Put down the cell phone and step away from the computer. Get out and do interesting things. Experience is knowledge. It is the writer’s palate.
Write something every single day.
Live passionately. Passion forms the color of words. Develop your listening skills. Don’t write for others, write for yourself first. The audience will come. Assemble words with the purpose to connect with someone outside yourself.
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Start with stories and metaphors Write to agitate your reader and stir emotions. Use the mini-skirt rule: Make it long enough to cover everything, but short enough to keep it interesting. Believe in yourself.
Class Notes 1950s Allen ‘55 and Maxine (Czapiewski) Johnson, ‘56 (Winona), recently received a joint award for community leadership in Vermillion, South Dakota. Both Johnsons retired from the University of South Dakota in Vermillion, where Allen served as professor and Chairman for the Department of Biology, and Maxine as secretary in the Department of Nursing. Maxine previously received the Mayor’s Award for Community Service, was named the United Way Volunteer of the Year, and received local and state awards from the Epsilon Sigma Alpha sorority for distinguished service. She recently completed an AARP mayoral appointment as the Chief Service Officer for Vermillion, and served as a delegate to the Points of Life Conferences.
1970s Connie Brownen-Wesala ’72 (Gilbert, Ariz.), is a retired educator. Her debut novel, The House on 4th Street, is available on Kindle, Nook, and in paperback on Amazon. Lee Paul Newman ‘72 (Winona, Minn.) was named Volunteer of the Month. Lee has participated in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program for 35 years. He is also involved with “Take a Kid Fishing Day,” as well as various committees and organizations. He was a WSU Alumni committee member for eight years and donates time to area functions. Don Anderson ’74 (Winona), was employed as the Senior Industrial Engineer for Peerless Chain from 1978 to 2002, then worked as a Regional Logistics Manager for Mayo Clinic Medical Lab Division until his retirement in 2010.
Steven McCown ‘74 (Northfield, Minn.), taught English at San Pasqual High School in Winterhaven, Calif., for 28 years, where he was named Teacher of the Year in 2002. Steve also taught English part-time at Arizona Western College (AWC) in Yuma, Ariz., for ten years. While at AWC, he won several literary awards including the 2009 Poetry Contest, and first place in the 2015 Short Story Contest. He was also the featured poet in the 2013 AWC 'Colorado Crossing' literary magazine. Craig Anderson ‘75 (Pine Island, Minn.), was presented the Play Ball! Minnesota Terry Ryan Award for being a Friend of the Game. Play Ball! (Minnesota’s highest baseball honor) is named after longtime Minnesota Twins general manager Terry Ryan. Craig has been coaching baseball at Pine Island High School for 40 years. He also directs summer baseball. He has twice served as president of the Minnesota High School Baseball Coaches Association and has been a member of the advisory board since 1994. Paul Sir ’77 (Edmonton, Alberta, Canada), played basketball at WSU for Coach Les Wothke, Winning the Outstanding Warrior Award three times for outstanding leadership and citizenship contributions. Paul is a member of the WSU Hall of Fame, and was recently inducted into the Iowa High School Hall of Fame. He played professionally in Belgium for one season. After coaching at the high school, college, and pro levels, he is currently the Executive Director of Basketball Alberta. He created and hosts a weekly basketball show on the local ESPN affiliate. He and his wife, Sandra, have four sons, one who was a national 3-point NCAA leader. “I owe a great deal to Winona State and the Winona community,” said Paul.
1980s Cary Heyer ‘86 (Madison, Wis.), serves as Director of Communications and Strategic Marketing for Madison College. He was named the Madison’s chapter of the Public Relations Society of
America’s Communicator of the Year. The award is given to an individual who has exemplified superb consensus-building and two-way conversation skills, issues communications skills and participation in debates or other dialogue important to any south-central Wisconsin issue, crisis, cause, or event. Mary Cappel ‘87 (Winona, Minn.), was named 2015-2016 Winona Education Association Teacher of the Year. Mary began her teaching career at Galesville-EttrickTrempealeau Junior High School, teaching girls’ physical education and co-ed health. She coached junior high volleyball and cheerleading, was the high school assistant gymnastics coach, and was a member of the district staff development committee. Mary joined the teaching staff in the Winona Area Public Schools in 1986, and currently is a physical education teacher at Jefferson Elementary STEM School. She was named the Region 1 Gymnastics Coach of the Year and was named the Minnesota Elementary Physical Educator Teacher of the Year in 2010. Michael Veldman ’89 (Austin, Minn.), a sixth grade social studies teacher at IJ Holton School in Austin, was recognized for his contribution to the field of music by the Austin Public Schools Music Hall of Fame.
1990s Scott Mertes ‘94 (Midland, Mich.), was recently promoted to Dean of Liberal Arts at Mid Michigan Community College. Scott is the Secretary of the Winona State Alumni Society Board of Directors.
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Class Notes Cory Whalen ‘94 (St. Paul, Minn.), was inducted into the Minnesota Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA). ABOTA is a national organization comprising those attorneys who have achieved the most elite status among trial attorneys. Cory is a partner of SiebenCarey law firm and has been licensed to practice law in Minnesota since 1998. Pam Kessler ’95 (Minneapolis, Minn.), worked at a number of corporations in varying capacities, including UnitedHealth, Fingerhut, US Bank, 3M, Best Buy, and IBM. Pam has now set her hand to writing, under the pen name Kane Lesser. Her non-fiction piece, “I Never Knew All Too Well,” was featured in Pulchritude Press’ Labor Day site launch, and “I Am Batwoman” won Pulchritude Press’ Inaugural Featured Writer Contest. Pam’s first novel, The Angel’s Lounge, won the “12 Days of Authors” Event awarded by SinfullyHot Book Promotions. Pam’s second novel, The Angel’s Revenge, will be published in 2016. Her online blog, www.kanelesser.com, has reached and humored readers worldwide. Danielle (Cowan) Ottman ’94 (Rosemount, Minn.), works for SMG as Sales Manager at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, new home of the Minnesota Vikings. She books events for the facility, which will host Super Bowl LII in 2018 and the NCAA Men’s Final Four in 2019. Angela Peckman ’98, (Burnsville, Minn.), is a manager for Project Management Center of Excellence, a large IT contracting and consulting firm at Analysts International’s headquarters in Edina, Minn. Ibrahim Ahmed ‘99 (Bangladesh), is a pioneer in Bangla rock metal music. Ibrahim is a member of the bands Warfaze and Authohin. (Between studies at WSU, he made frequent visits home to produce
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albums and perform at sold-out concerts.) Each band has released numerous albums and maintains a concert tour schedule. For the past 16 years, Ibrahim has provided lessons to budding guitarists of his country. In 2010, Warfaze received the Citycell Channel I band music award. In 2014, the Top Ten website rated Warfaze as one of the top ten hard rock bands in the world.
2000s Rhiannon (Verburgt) Blawat ‘00 (New Berlin, Wis.), was promoted to Associate Principal at Kahler Slater, an awardwinning architecture and experience design firm based in Milwaukee, Madison, and Singapore. Rhiannon is Kahler Slater’s controller and responsible for the firm’s cash management. She leads the firm’s Finance Team and oversees projects that support the firm’s strategic plan. Carolyn (Bisek) Reuter ‘00 (Black Creek, Wis.), is the Principal at St. Francis Xavier Elementary School, McDonald Street Campus, Appleton, Wis. Luke Merchlewitz ‘01 (Winona), is a second-grade teacher at WashingtonKosciusko Elementary School in Winona. Luke will present a workshop at the global student conference this summer at the Education First Global Student Leaders Summit in Davos, Switzerland. The workshop will focus on how to teach global competency in schools. Benjamin Weaver ‘01 (Albany, New York), serves as Assistant Vice-Provost for Academic and Faculty Affairs at the State University of New York, Albany. Prior to his present appointment, Ben served as a research assistant at the State University of New York System Administration’s Office of Institutional Research and Analysis and held research
WSU Currents • currents.winonastateu.com
and program/grant management positions at Rutgers University’s Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy. Stefanie (Steimann) Schussler ‘02 and Jeremy Schussler ‘02 (Prior Lake, Minn.), welcomed their third son, Christian Cole Schussler, born Christmas day 2015. Bruce Carpenter ‘03 (Chadron, Neb.), who started as WSU quarterback for four years and led Winona to the playoffs twice as well as two bowl appearances, is now an assistant coach for the Chadron State College football program. Bruce most recently coached the offensive line and served as the offensive coordinator at the University of Montana Western, an NAIA institution located in Dillon, Neb. Rebecca (Skozek) Swenson ‘03 and Michael Swenson ‘01 (Winona, Minn.), welcomed a son, Jonathan Swenson. Brad Krasaway ‘04 (International Falls, Minn.), was awarded the 2015 Andrea Ruesch Outstanding Alumnus Award by the Minnesota State University Student Association (MSUSA). During his time as a student, Brad served as the Minnesota State College Student Association (MSCSA) President and later the MSUSA State Chair. He currently serves as the Director of Student Life and Academic Advising at Rainy River Community College, and is the chief diversity officer and student senate advisor. Angela (Chase) Budensiek ’05 (Pine Island, Minn.), and husband Aaron Budensiek ’05, have two sons, Carter, age 9, and Chayse, age 6. Angela is the Director of Marketing at Shorewood Senior Campus in Rochester, Minn., and was named Rochester’s Business Woman of the Year by the Rochester Woman Magazine. Travis Whipple ‘08 (North Little Rock, Ark.), is the Assistant Athletic Director for External Operations, Director of Athletics
at the University of Arkansas, Little Rock. Travis most recently served as the Director of Advancement and Athletics for Cotter Schools, Winona. Prior, he was the Associate Athletic Director at the University of Illinois, Springfield from 2013 to 2014; was the Assistant Commissioner for Marketing and Broadcasting of the Lone Star Conference in Richardson, Texas, from 2011-2012; and was the Assistant Athletic Director for External Operations of WSU from 2008 to 2011. Holly (Sutton) Barton ‘09 (Winona), is the Healthy Living director at the Winona YMCA. She taught health and physical education for four years at Rogers (Minn.) High School. Jessica Devine ‘09 (Morris, Minn.), is the head track and field coach at the University of Minnesota, Morris.
Jeremy Nauman ‘09 (Truman, Minn.), joined the firm Moss & Barnett, Minneapolis, Minn. Jeremy works with the firm’s real estate team focusing his practice in the firm’s national multifamily agency lending practice group. Emma (Schmitz) Zuehlke ’10 (Green Bay, Wis.), married Chad Zuehlke May 30, 2015. Emma teaches middle school special education and recently completed her Master’s in Educational Administration. Rachel Schromen ‘10 (St. Paul, Minn.), began a solo law practice, Schromen Law, LLC, in the areas of Estate Planning and Elder Law. Rachel co-founded the Domestic Abuse Legal Advocacy Center, PSC, a nonprofit that works with Women’s Advocates (a domestic violence shelter in St. Paul) to provide free legal
advocacy to victims and survivors who are clients. Adam Holen ‘11 (Aurora, Colo.), runs a clinic with a partner from graduate school and is owner of Novo Soft Tissue LLC, Denver, Colo. Adam graduated with a Doctorate in Chiropractic from Palmer College in Davenport, Iowa, in February 2015. He specializes in biomechanics and soft tissue work as an Integrative Diagnosis provider. In addition, he is a practicing ACSM certified personal trainer at Fitness Together in Washington Park, Denver. Lucas Wolf ‘11 (Baldwin, Wis.), Lucas has accepted a position with the chiropractic practices of Dr. Lance Albrightson in Woodville, and Dr. Lisa Kinter in Glenwood City. Abby Halberg ’12 (Eau Claire, Wis.), a WSU nursing graduate, joined the Peace Corps and will work in the Dominican Republic. Following training, Abby will be a community health volunteer, living and working at the community level to promote healthy decisions and work with community groups and individuals on HIV/ AIDS prevention, improving nutrition, and healthy reproductive habits. Amy Gadient ’13 (Winona), married Mark Evjen in June 2015. She is a registered nurse at Gundersen Health System, La Crosse, Wis. Mark is currently working on his elementary education degree at WSU, where the couple met. During the winter, Mark is a wrestling coach for LewistonAltura-Rushford-Peterson. Jose Dominguez ’15 (Worthington, Minn.), who graduated with a double major in Graphic Design and Studio Art, had a solo exhibition at the Rochester Art Center. Jose’s Ilumíname (Enlighten Me), was part of the Center’s RAC2: Local Artist Exhibition Series.
Pedro Lander ’15 (Winona, Minn.), performed a section from his capstone “Maricón (Faggot)” at the 43rd Annual Choreographer’s Evening at the Walker Art Center, Minneapolis, Minn. Pedro has performed at the Cowles Center for Dance and the Performing Arts, at an informal showing hosted by HIJACK, and at the Weitz Center for Creativity as a member of TimeTrack Productions. He is currently apprenticing with the Eclectic Edge Ensemble. Pedro works for an equity and educational non-profit, College Possible, as an AmeriCorps volunteer, advising and coaching underprivileged students at Augsburg College. Ashley Walker ‘15 (Shakopee, Minn.), is the head softball coach at New Prague High School. Ashley, a 2011 Shakopee graduate, was a two-time All-State pitcher in high school and was named Shakopee High School’s 2011 Female Athlete of the Year. While at WSU, Ashley was a four-year member of the WSU softball team, was named All-Conference, All-Region, and was the National Division II Pitcher of the Week, and was named the 2015 Winona State University Female Athlete of the Year. Walker is currently student-teaching at Eagan High School.
We want to hear from you! Submit notes, photos and news online at winona.edu/currents. Email your class notes to alumni@winona.edu or currents@ winona.edu. Still like to use mail? Send notes to Alumni Relations, P.O. Box 5838, Winona, MN 55987. Read Currents online: currents.winonastateu.com
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In Memoriam 1930s Lois (Diepenbrock) Knowles ’34 (St. Paul, Minn.), passed away at the age of 100 June 23, 2015.
1940s Ruth (Warthesen) Schwarz ‘43 (St. Paul, Minn.), passed away June 9, 2015. Darle Wilson ’48 (Yelm, Wash.), died June 7, 2015. Darle graduated with a BA in music and history and taught music at Bremerton school district for 32 years.
Lyle Wright ’49 (Rochester, Minn.), died Aug. 7, 2015. Lyle graduated from Kasson High School and Winona State Teachers College with a degree in history and industrial arts. He taught in McIntosh, South Dakota, and Emmons, Minn., but spent the majority of his teaching career in Wells, Minn. James Swenson ’49 (Brooklyn Center, Minn.), passed away July 11, 2015. Jim graduated from Rushford High School and served in the Army during WWII. He majored in math, with a minor in physics, and obtained a teaching degree. While at Winona State, Jim was active in politics and was Student Association President. His first teaching position was at Minot, North Dakota. Jim then taught math for 33 years at Anoka (Minn.) High School. Jim studied for his master’s degree in mathematics at the University of Minnesota, where he also taught adult
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math in the evening at the University Extension Division for 37 years. Jim retired from teaching at Anoka in 1987, but continued teaching for the University of Minnesota Extension Division until 1990.
1950s William Beseler ’50 (Trempealeau, Wis.), died Dec. 14, 2015. In 1944, Bill joined the U.S. Merchant Marine as an officer cadet and trained at Merchant Marine Academy at San Mateo, Calif. Following World War II, he returned to Winona and enrolled at Winona State Teachers College, earning a BS in business administration. Gene Pelowski Sr. ’50 (Red Wing, Minn.), passed away Sept. 24, 2015. Gene graduated from Cotter High School and was the recipient of the 2015 Cotter Alumni Achievement Award. He served four years in the Navy aboard the USS Marblehead in the Atlantic. Gene attended Winona State Teachers College, where he was the captain and coach of the Winona State Golf Team, lettering all four years. In 1993, he was inducted into the WSU Athletic Hall of Fame for his unique contributions to Winona State and to professional golf. Geraldine “Gerry” Landers ’52 (Red Wing, Minn.), passed away Nov. 17, 2015. Gerry was an instrumentalist, majoring in oboe and clarinet. She played with various organizations, including the Winona High School band and orchestra, the University of Minnesota band and orchestra, as well as the Winona State Teachers College concert band. She also performed for many years with the Winona Municipal Band.
WSU Currents • currents.winonastateu.com
Elaine (Balch) Papenfuss ’54 (Winona), died Jan. 6, 2016. Elaine graduated with a BS degree from Winona State Teachers College. She was a member of the La Crescent Education Association, the Minnesota Education Association, and the National Education Association. She was named “Teacher of the Year” for La Crescent in 1977. Russell Schmidt ’55 (St. Cloud, Minn.), died July 10, 2015. Russ earned a bachelor’s degree from Winona State Teachers College, where he was a Purple Key honor student, class vice-president, and a four-year letterman in football. He taught high school science and math and coached football at Plainview (Minn.) High School. Russ took a teaching assistant position at UMD in 1958, and the University of Colorado the following year. He returned to Winona State College as a math instructor in 1960. From 1961-66, Russ was employed as a research scientist working on semiconductor devices at Honeywell Research Center in Hopkins, Minn., then Control Data in Bloomington, Minn. During this time, he earned his MS in electrical engineering at the University of Minnesota. In 1966, Russ received a Graduate Fellowship in Educational Research at the University of Florida, resulting in a doctorate degree in 1968. He joined the Central Minnesota Educational Research and Development Council and later the faculty of St. Cloud State University, where he taught 29 years in the Teacher Development Department. Richard Briesath ’57, ‘79, ’81 (Dakota, Minn.), passed away Oct. 12, 2015. He received his bachelor’s degree in industrial arts and biology education and a master’s degree in education. Dick then received his master’s degree in school administration at Winona State College. He taught for ten years at Whitefish Bay, Wis., school district. Richard went on to work as a school administrator at many Minnesota schools, including Milroy, Ulen, Glenville–Emmons, Silver Lake, and Comfrey.
Scott Tolleson ’57 (Rochester, Minn.), passed away Oct. 3, 2015. Scott graduated from Winona Senior High School and Winona State College. Scott served in the U.S. Army from 1957-59, followed by a successful career in management, working for Watkins Products. Rollie Tust, Jr. ’58 (Winona), died Aug. 25, 2015. Rollie served with the United States Air Force during the Korean War. He was a member of the American Legion and a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He owned and operated the Jerry Meier Equipment Company in Winona. Richard Averill ‘59 (Elwood, Ill.), died Sept. 12, 2015. Dick enlisted in the U.S. Air Force serving from 1951-55. He earned a BA in business administration from Winona State College. Dick was employed as an assistant accountant by Lake Center Switch Co., Winona, and Decorah, Iowa, and was later named Deco Products Company’s national sales manager.
1960 Donald Daugs ‘60 (Monona, Iowa), passed away Oct. 4, 2015. Don obtained a BS from Winona State College, a MS with an emphasis in biological sciences, and a doctorate in science education from Oregon State University. He served in the U.S. Army from 1957-59 in Germany. Don taught at the University of Victoria in British Columbia, Canada, and at Utah State University. Robert Munkel ’61, ’65 (Long Beach, Miss.), died Feb. 15, 2016. Bob earned a BS/MS degree from Winona State College. He served as president of the Science
Academy while attending Winona State. Bob taught for 40 years at various schools in the Midwest before retiring in 2001. Lance Johnson ’62 (Brookings, South Dakota), died June 5, 2015. Lance received a teaching degree from Winona State College and his master’s degree in natural science from the University of Idaho. He taught in junior high and middle school for 32 years at various locations, spending the last 26 years of his career in Bozeman, Mont. Carlos Alvarez ‘63 (Jefferson, Wis.), passed away Sept. 18, 2015. Carlos was a biology teacher for the Watertown (Wis.) Unified School District for 32 years. Sharon (Christenson) Wachholz ’65 (New Hope, Minn.), passed away Jan. 9, 2016.
Thomas Caron ’65 (Alexandria, Minn.), passed away Nov. 18, 2015. Tom received a BS from Winona State College and was a twotime NIC Conference runner-up and NAIA qualifier in wrestling. After graduating, Tom taught social studies and coached wrestling in Mayville and Madison, Wis. He then joined Schwan’s Sales Enterprises, Inc., Marshall, Minn. Tom was chosen as one of eight outstanding Americans in Minnesota by the Minnesota chapter of the national Wrestling Hall of Fame. Michael Mehlman ‘65 (Scottsdale, Ariz.), died Aug. 26, 2015. Mike entered Berkline Furniture’s management training program in 1965. In 1975, he founded The Bean Station Furniture Factory and eventually sold. In 1994 he become the general manager of a steel fabricator in Grand Rapids, Mich. In 2005, he came back to the furniture business to start an import company, Odyssey International, with his two sons. Mike retired in 2011.
Judee (Fuglestad) Brone ’66 (Fountain City, Wis.), died Aug. 24, 2015. Judee received her BA from Winona State College. She worked in the childcare field in New York City, Minneapolis, and Winona for over 30 years. Judee helped formulate and direct the Key Kids program in Winona, and coordinated and directed Community Theater in Fountain City for 30 years. Joyce (Evens) Bohnen ’67 (Dubuque, Iowa), died July 17, 2015. Joyce graduated from Winona State College with a BS and began her teaching career in Rochester, Minn., then at Cochrane School in Fountain City, Wis. She spent the majority of her years as a teacher at Eisenhower Elementary School Dubuque Community School District (DCSD), Iowa. During her teaching career, she was named Teacher of the Year by the DCSD. Richard Kalbrener ’68 (Honolulu, Hawaii) died Aug. 29, 2015. Rich graduated from Winona State College and took a position as a Xerox representative, which took him to Hawaii. In 1981, Rich founded Long Distance USA in Honolulu, which was acquired by Sprint in 1989. He served as president at Sprint for six years. In 1996, he moved to Hong Kong and served three years as the regional president of Global One, He returned to Hawaii in 1999 to lead Pacific Internet Exchange (PIXC). Betty (Ludtke) Woodworth ’68 (Winona), passed away July 12, 2015.
Janice (Winter) Graziani ’69 (Hopkins, Minn.), died Aug. 11, 2015. Janice spent 32 years teaching in Osseo, Minn.
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In Memoriam Rebecca (Reinarts) Richer ’69 (San Gabriel, Calif.), died June 7, 2015. Rebecca graduated from Cotter High School in 1965 as valedictorian of her class, and from Winona State College in 1969. She completed a master’s degree in Fargo, North Dakota. Rebecca worked for Bell and Howell, Pasadena, Calif., and for 22 years as Assistant Director of Budget and Finance for the Los Angeles County Office of Education.
1970s Dennis Roemer ‘70 (Cottage Grove, Minn.), passed away Nov. 27, 2015. Dennis completed his undergraduate degree at Winona State College. He continued his education at the University of Minnesota, earning his Master’s in Education. Dennis taught at Oakland Junior High in Stillwater for 35 years. James Blasko ’70 (Lake Elmo, Minn.), passed away Oct. 16, 2015. James attended Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, Minn., and graduated from Winona State College with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and business administration. A 40-year career with 3M led him to assignments in Tennessee, Iowa, and New Ulm, Minn. Pamela (Halvorson) Frank ’71 (Wells, Minn.), died July 1, 2015. Pam received her AA from Waldorf College, Forest City, Iowa, in 1969, and earned a BS in elementary education from Winona State College. Pam continued her education at the University of North Dakota, receiving her MS in 1980, and her specialist degree in behavioral disabilities from the University of Minnesota in 1992.
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Marvin Miller ’72 (Rochester, Minn.), died July 26, 2015. Marv earned membership in the Minnesota State High School League 1,000 Point Club for scoring over 1,000 points during his high school basketball career. In 1958, Marv graduated from North Dakota State University with a BS in education. While at NDSU, Marv was in the ROTC program and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant. Marv went on to earn his MS from Winona State College and his Education Specialist Degree from the University of Minnesota. In 1991 he was called to serve active duty during the Desert Storm conflict. He was in the U.S. Army Reserves for 31 years, retiring as a Captain in the 5501 Hospital Unit at Fort Snelling, Minn. Marv taught and coached at both the high school and middle school levels. Robert Maas ‘74 (Gaylord, Minn.), passed away Oct. 25, 2015. Bob attended Winona State College. He taught high school English in Oklahoma, the Twin Cities, and in the Gibbon-FairfaxWinthrop (Minn.) school system. He retired from GFW in 2011 and went on to teach at South Central College and the Mankato School District.
1980s Donald Greg Ballard ’83 (Congress, Ariz.), died Nov. 3, 2015. Greg went to Winona Tech in 1972, and then spent six years at Lake Center Industries doing tool and die making. He later graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in economics from Winona State University. He spent 18 years as an investment broker for Edward Jones in Rochester, Minn., and Scottsdale, Ariz.
WSU Currents • currents.winonastateu.com
Paul Trelstad ’85 (Madison, Minn.), passed away Dec. 18, 2015. Paul graduated from the University of Minnesota at Morris in 1966 with a degree in music. He taught vocal music in various Wisconsin schools. Paul received his MS in education administration (EDAD) from South Dakota State University, Brookings, in 1983, and earned his specialist degree in EDAD from Winona State University. He was the superintendent of Lyle Public Schools, Lyle, Minnesota. Paul was a 21-year veteran of the Minnesota National Guard. Kristie (Siebenaler) Miller ’93 (Woodbury, Minn.), passed away Nov. 22, 2015. Joseph Marley ’93 (Ferryville, Iowa), died June 28, 2015. Joe received his BS from WSU, and after a year of substitute teaching, joined the U.S. Peace Corps and went to Niger, West Africa. Joe led innovations in the agriforestry program in Peace Corps Niger, and he changed the methodologies used to teach improved farming practices. He moved to Alaska and became principal/ teacher of the Ella B. Vernetti School in Koyukuk, Alaska. He earned the 2003 Small School Principal of the Year Award from the Alaska Association of Secondary School Principals. Melissa Davis ’95 (Eagan, Minn.), died Aug. 29, 2015. Joan Horter ’99 (Rochester, Minn.), passed away Aug. 23, 2015. Joan received an associate degree from RCTC and a BS in accounting from WSU.
2000s Vanessa Nelson Yuille ’09 (Caledonia, Minn.), passed away Nov. 5, 2015, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, where she was attending the University of Toronto as a doctoral candidate. She received her bachelor’s degree in English at Winona State and moved to Glasgow, Scotland. Vanessa attended the University of Glasgow and received a Master’s of Research in English Language. She successfully applied for the Connaught International Scholarship for Doctoral Students, which enabled her to pursue a PhD in Information Studies in the Faculty of Information at the University of Toronto.
Faculty & Staff Patricia MGuire ’82 (Winona), passed away Aug. 9, 2015. After attending Winona Secretarial School, Pat went to Washington, D.C., to work for the Department of the Navy. At age 51, Pat enrolled at WSU and majored in sociology. She was a member of the first WSU women’s golf team, sharing her golfing expertise with the younger athletes. She worked at Winona State for many years in various capacities, including in the adult education office, advising older students who were returning to college. Thomas Hosier (Rochester, Minn.), died Oct. 28, 2015. Tom attended DePauw University in Indiana, where he majored in communications and English. Tom earned a master’s degree in physical education at Indiana University, and an additional teaching degree from the University of Michigan. He began his professional coaching career as a football assistant at Bemidji State University and Gustavus Adolphus College, where he also served as the head track coach. In 1973, he
accepted his first head coaching position at Eureka College, and was named coach of the year in 1975 and 1976. Tom went on to coach at Macalester College, St. Paul, Minn., and WSU football, before going on to coaching three seasons with Rochester Community and Technical College. Tom continued teaching into the fall of 2015. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame at South Haven High School, Bemidji State University, Eureka College, Macalester College, and WSU.
During World War II, Dan made the D-Day landing on Omaha Beach in France. Dan earned a MA in 1949, and a PhD in History in 1958 from the University of Iowa. He began his teaching career at high schools in South Dakota at Kadoka and Pierre. Dan then taught history at Logan High School in La Crosse from 1949-51, before coming to WSU in 1951 as a professor of history. During his tenure at WSU, he served as history department chairman and Dean of Graduate Studies. Dan retired in 1984.
Robert Gunner (Winona), died July 24, 2015. Bob received his BS in physical education from Michigan State University in 1955, followed by a MA in counseling, and a physical education doctorate from Indiana State University. Bob served in the US Air Force. He taught one year of high school before heading to Michigan Technological University, where he was head wrestling coach and assistant football coach. He then took a physical education teaching position at WSU from 1962-97. During his tenure at Winona State, Bob was a department head, WSU head wrestling coach from 1962-69, WSU assistant football coach from 1962-64, WSU head men’s tennis coach from 1971-90, and was elected into the WSU Hall of Fame in 1995.
Keith Haag (Winona), died January 18, 2016. Keith graduated from Lewiston High School in 1976 and worked on a farm for many years before beginning his career in maintenance at Winona State University Rochester Campus, later transferring to the Winona Campus.
Stewart Shaw (Winona), died Aug. 19, 2015. He graduated from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and received his PhD in Philosophy from Columbia University, New York City. Stewart received a Fulbright Scholarship to study at Leeds University in England in 1957. He taught philosophy at Muhlenberg College in Allentown, Pa., from 1963-69, and then taught at Hamline University, St. Paul. He moved to Winona to become the registrar at WSU, where he remained until his retirement in 2002. Daniel Hoyt (Winona), passed away Aug. 11, 2015. Dan graduated with a BA from Dakota Wesleyan University in South Dakota in 1940.
Students Derek Bute ’16 (Alden, Minn.), died Jan. 17, 2014 in Winona. Derek, a senior majoring in exercise science, was to pursue his Physician’s Assistant certification following graduation. He was a member of the Minnesota National Guard Red Bulls, and was a combat medic with the HHC 2-135 Infantry Battalion out of Mankato and deployed with his unit to Kuwait in 2012. He most recently held rank of Sergeant and was a Medic Team Leader and received many military awards. Mary Sullivan ’18 (Milwaukee, Wis.), passed away April 16 in Winona. Sullivan, the daughter of James and Julie Sullivan, enrolled at WSU in fall 2014 and was majoring in Health, Exercise and Rehabilitative Sciences: Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation.
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FEEL
the
LOVE
T
he week of February 15th was all about sharing the love for Winona State University.
importance of “giving back.” Students wrote “thank you” cards to donors while they enjoyed their ice cream.
WSU Week featured a series of events that focused on honoring individuals who make this university a success through their generous donations. Sponsored by University Advancement and the Winona State University Foundation, the week of campus activities sought to educate students, staff, and faculty on the importance of philanthropy.
Events wrapped up with “I WSU” Day. The purpose of this day was simply to celebrate WSU and the reasons everyone loves the university. Reasons to love WSU include the rock climbing wall, the bluffs, nature, connections, friends, campus, their international family, the great people, and, as one student said, just everything. What people love about WSU is what gives them pride in being a Warrior.
“The week focused on educating students about philanthropy and recognizing donors,” said Heather Kosik, Director of Alumni Relations. “Students should understand the importance of philanthropy and how it has affected their time at WSU. It’s not scary to talk about philanthropy, and instead the generosity of others should be celebrated, which was the goal of I Love WSU Week.” The four-day affair launched with the All-U Campaign Kick-Off, with President Olson and Winona State student Jenny Connell speaking about what makes WSU great — the generosity of donors — and how that translates into student success. Faculty, both current and retired, and staff who are donors, received a button to wear declaring, “I WSU/Donor.” Tag Day featured hundreds of “I’m Here Because of Donors” tags placed on items throughout the campus, both indoors and out. Tagged items were made possible by the donations Winona State receives through various avenues, including the Phonathon. “Get the Scoop on Philanthropy” offered students, faculty, and staff free ice cream and information on philanthropy and the
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WSU Currents • currents.winonastateu.com
“I’m passionate about the success of this university, and participating in I WSU Week has inspired me to want to give back after I graduate. The WSU Foundation has helped me incredibly in my journey throughout college, so I try and educate other students about the WSU Foundation, which is why I participated in this event.” — Mariah Kaercher ‘17
s ’ e r e h W
WAZOO? Ted Roberton next to a “friend” in Livingston, Texas.
Wazoo having some fun with Duane Murray, ’68, at Red Stripe Beach near Falmouth, Jamaica. WSU Alums gathered to watch the WSU Baseball team in Florida in early March. Rich Mancuso and Wally Madland standing, Bill Luthin and Greg Richardson seated with WAZOO!
Download your own Wazoo image file and view more Where's Wazoo? pics: winona.edu/alumni/featured.asp
-24 June 23 iday y-Fr Thursda
2016
It’s never too late or too early to go to college. Share a captivating two days with your grandchild as you master one of six intriguing majors. From out of town or looking for the full college-life experience? Stay on campus in one of the suite-style residence halls. WSU Retiree Center 507.457.5565 www.winona.edu/grandparents grandparents@winona.edu Family Outdoor Adventures Lego Mindstorms: Introduction to Robotics
jors 16 Ma 0 2 e Th
Un Viaje A Mexico: A Virtual Tour of our Neighbor to the South
Star (Wars) & Lasers: Exploring the Science of Light
Don’t Get “Stumped” in the Woods: Exploring WSU’s Hidden Forest
Immersed in Art: Making Memories at the MN Marine Art Museum
WSU Currents • Spring 2016
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Alumni Relations P.O. Box 5838 Winona, MN 55987 alumni.winona.edu 800.DIAL.WSU
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The oldest member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system If you wish to be removed from the Currents mailing list or have an address change, please contact alumni@winona.edu or 1-800-342-5978 ext. 5027.
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2016 TOUR DATES M AY
23 MILWAUKEE
M AY
24 MADISON JUN
1
ROCHESTER
JUN
27 LA CROSSE JUL
26 WINONA
OTHER ALUMNI DATES M AY
22 JUN
17 JUL
17 AU G
8
ARLINGTON RACE TRACK
AU G
WSU ALUMNI STEAMBOAT DAYS SOCIAL
SEP
WSU ALUMNI & FRIENDS SOCIAL
18
ARLINGTON, Ill.
WINONA, Minn.
MN TWINS GAME & SOCIAL
LA CROSSE, Wis.
ENGINEERING GOLF SCHOLARSHIP OUTING
15
WINONA, Minn.
OCT
14– WSU HOMECOMING 15
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn.
WSU ALUMNI & FRIENDS SOCIAL ROCHESTER, Minn.
For Event Details
VISIT: winona.edu/alumni/events.asp OR CALL: 507.457.5027 or 800.242.8978 x5027
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