By Emma Stenzel
Cardinal Staff
Saint Mary’s University students have the opportunity to create and present business plans and compete for cash prizes in this semester’s Business Plan Competition and Elevator Pitch Competition, both sponsored by the Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies.
The Fourth Annual Business Plan Competition will allow students to develop a business plan for a business they would like to start. The plan must include an executive summary, concept statement, preliminary marketing plan, discussion of operating considerations, anticipated startup costs and references for sources used.
Undergraduate students of all majors are encouraged to participate and may compete as an individual or as a team of two students. Business majors and non-business majors compete in separate divisions.
Submissions for the Business Plan Competition are due Tuesday, March 15, to Teresa Speck, business professor (tspeck@smumn.edu). Judges will consider the creativity of the business plans, the feasibility of the proposed project and the comprehensiveness of the plans. The Kabara Institute will award the winners with cash prizes.
“The Business Plan Competition allows students of every major to use their creativity and put their ideas down on paper,” said Speck. “They build the skills that help them become good employees.”
The Elevator Pitch Competition was held on Thursday, Feb. 3, where students created an idea for a new business or event and had only 90 seconds (the length of a typical elevator ride) to convince a panel of judges to invest in their business plan. A panel of judges, comprised of business faculty members, considered the feasibility and creativity of each idea and the enthusiasm and professionalism of the presentation.
Top prizes were awarded to Joe Richards, philosophy and marketing major; Becca Sandager, electronic publishing major; and Brian Dillon, accounting major. The Kabara Institute awarded a total of $500 to the Elevator Pitch contestants.
Trevor Hall, the director of the Kabara Institute, believes that the Elevator Pitch can help students of any major develop the skills and abilities to succeed after college.
“Students ask themselves, ‘How do I find a job? How do I network?’” said Hall. “With the Elevator Pitch Competition, they get to meet people and speak to people with conviction and strength. They learn how to make people want to hire them.”
The Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies was established by Dr. Jon Kabara, ’48, and his wife Betty in 2005. The institute aims to instill a passion for entrepreneurship in students, regardless of their major field of study and to provide opportunities for students to experience entrepreneurship first-hand.
“We want the Kabara Institute to be a resource for all students to explore the idea of being an entrepreneur,” said Hall. “No matter what your major is, entrepreneurial and innovative thinking benefits everyone.”
For more information about the Kabara Institute, the Business Plan Competition or the Elevator Pitch Competition, contact Teresa Speck (tspeck@smumn.edu) or Trevor Hall (tmhall@smumn.edu).
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
RA or DJ? Sinn does both
By Lauren Rothering
Editor in Chief
Strobe lights, dancing boys in boxers and Hannah Montana posters are probably not common sights in most all-male, freshman dorms. But for Benilde resident assistant (RA) Riley Sinn, they mean just another day on the job.
This is Sinn’s first year as an RA, having been in Benidle since August 2010. As an RA, Sinn encounters many different situations on a daily basis, many times unexpected and unusual.
“I think the weirdest thing that has happened to me is opening my door to two of my residents dancing in their boxers holding a heart in front of them then asking if I would be their Valentine,” said Sinn.
The unexpected does not stop in the hallway, though. First-time visitors to Sinn’s room are often taken aback by his decorations.
“The first thing most people notice when they come in is my Hannah Montana Rock Sensation banner,” said Sinn. “I have 8 different club lights in my room, strobe lights, lasers, color wheels, a siren and more. A lot of the lights go to the beat of the music, and are all hooked up to a control panel on my desk. My room also has surround-sound speakers, and plenty of fans to keep it nice and cool during dance parties. If I can, I would love the chance to throw a dance at this school.”
However, being an RA is not all about dancing and DJ’s. As an RA in Benilde, Sinn is part of the larger Benilde, Gilmore Creek and St. Yon’s staff. Sinn, along with his seven other staff members, does programming and duty rounds in all three buildings. Each building holds different genders and grade levels and has their own unique character, said Sinn.
“Benilde is, well, interesting and you never know what will happen. Gilmore always has someone in the lounge watching a movie or playing games. Then there is Yon’s which is a ghost town, and you normally see only about two or three people while you’re there,” said Sinn.
Though there are many parts of the job that Sinn enjoys, he also acknowledges a certain amount of sacrifice that comes with the position.
“My least favorite part of the job has to be that I lose my identity a lot, and people see me as an RA, not as Riley. No one really knows you, they just know you as an RA,” said Sinn.
Despite all the unusual, weird and challenging parts of being an RA, Sinn, like many RA’s, does find a sense of personal fulfillment in his work.
“I became an RA because I wanted to meet more people and get experience with working with college kids. Also it is a really rewarding job; I like helping people a lot,” said Sinn.
Editor in Chief
Strobe lights, dancing boys in boxers and Hannah Montana posters are probably not common sights in most all-male, freshman dorms. But for Benilde resident assistant (RA) Riley Sinn, they mean just another day on the job.
This is Sinn’s first year as an RA, having been in Benidle since August 2010. As an RA, Sinn encounters many different situations on a daily basis, many times unexpected and unusual.
“I think the weirdest thing that has happened to me is opening my door to two of my residents dancing in their boxers holding a heart in front of them then asking if I would be their Valentine,” said Sinn.
The unexpected does not stop in the hallway, though. First-time visitors to Sinn’s room are often taken aback by his decorations.
“The first thing most people notice when they come in is my Hannah Montana Rock Sensation banner,” said Sinn. “I have 8 different club lights in my room, strobe lights, lasers, color wheels, a siren and more. A lot of the lights go to the beat of the music, and are all hooked up to a control panel on my desk. My room also has surround-sound speakers, and plenty of fans to keep it nice and cool during dance parties. If I can, I would love the chance to throw a dance at this school.”
However, being an RA is not all about dancing and DJ’s. As an RA in Benilde, Sinn is part of the larger Benilde, Gilmore Creek and St. Yon’s staff. Sinn, along with his seven other staff members, does programming and duty rounds in all three buildings. Each building holds different genders and grade levels and has their own unique character, said Sinn.
“Benilde is, well, interesting and you never know what will happen. Gilmore always has someone in the lounge watching a movie or playing games. Then there is Yon’s which is a ghost town, and you normally see only about two or three people while you’re there,” said Sinn.
Though there are many parts of the job that Sinn enjoys, he also acknowledges a certain amount of sacrifice that comes with the position.
“My least favorite part of the job has to be that I lose my identity a lot, and people see me as an RA, not as Riley. No one really knows you, they just know you as an RA,” said Sinn.
Despite all the unusual, weird and challenging parts of being an RA, Sinn, like many RA’s, does find a sense of personal fulfillment in his work.
“I became an RA because I wanted to meet more people and get experience with working with college kids. Also it is a really rewarding job; I like helping people a lot,” said Sinn.
Resident assistants build community in halls
Jenna Capelle
Feature Editor
Junior theology major Ellen Bina is the resident assistant for the women in Vlazny Hall. Bina enjoys getting to know her residents’ needs and helping them individually. She likes to be a resource and to be available for students when they have decisions to make, big or small.
“As a resident assistant, I feel that I am a link between the university and student body,” said Bina.
Bina returned as a resident assistant for a second year because she had a great experience last year. Apart from her resident assistant responsibilities, she is an intern with Saint Mary’s Press. She also leads retreats with the leadership program for the Office of Campus Ministry.
“Whatever personality or dynamic you are, Residence Life needs you,” said Bina. “There’s a niche for every type of person.”
Jackie Jones is a sophomore double majoring in human services and psychology. As a resident assistant in Saint Edward’s Hall, Jones has developed great friendships with her fellow Resident Life staff and the residents in her building.
“It’s not always easy telling people what they don’t want to hear. I’m not the most assertive person but I’ve learned how to show authority when dealing with documenting residents,” said Jones.
In addition to being a resident assistant, Jones is a member of the Psychology Club, Ballroom Dance, and volunteers at the Humane Society of Winona.
Matt Tessmer, sophomore outfield player for the SMU baseball team, is a resident assistant in Saint Edward’s Hall. He’s a secondary education major with an emphasis in math. Tessmer’s responsibilities are to assist residents when they have questions and watch over the building when he’s on duty once per week and on the weekends.
The commitment of being a resident assistant has helped Tessmer manage his time better with classes and baseball practice. He decided to become a resident assistant because he thought it looked like a great opportunity to learn from a variety of people.
“The focus of Residence Life is community building,” said Bina.
To ensure this, resident assistants host programs for their residents to meet up and take a break from homework. The Residence Life staff for Saint Edward’s and Vlazny hosted a Super Bowl program for the residents, said Tessmer.
The programs have varied between different activities such as baking cookies, volunteering together and tours of sophomore dorms. Some programs are planned well in advanced and others are spontaneous, catering to what the residents want, said Jones.
For information about becoming a resident assistant in the future, visit the Residence Life Office in the basement of the Michael H. Toner Student Center.
Feature Editor
Junior theology major Ellen Bina is the resident assistant for the women in Vlazny Hall. Bina enjoys getting to know her residents’ needs and helping them individually. She likes to be a resource and to be available for students when they have decisions to make, big or small.
“As a resident assistant, I feel that I am a link between the university and student body,” said Bina.
Bina returned as a resident assistant for a second year because she had a great experience last year. Apart from her resident assistant responsibilities, she is an intern with Saint Mary’s Press. She also leads retreats with the leadership program for the Office of Campus Ministry.
“Whatever personality or dynamic you are, Residence Life needs you,” said Bina. “There’s a niche for every type of person.”
Jackie Jones is a sophomore double majoring in human services and psychology. As a resident assistant in Saint Edward’s Hall, Jones has developed great friendships with her fellow Resident Life staff and the residents in her building.
“It’s not always easy telling people what they don’t want to hear. I’m not the most assertive person but I’ve learned how to show authority when dealing with documenting residents,” said Jones.
In addition to being a resident assistant, Jones is a member of the Psychology Club, Ballroom Dance, and volunteers at the Humane Society of Winona.
Matt Tessmer, sophomore outfield player for the SMU baseball team, is a resident assistant in Saint Edward’s Hall. He’s a secondary education major with an emphasis in math. Tessmer’s responsibilities are to assist residents when they have questions and watch over the building when he’s on duty once per week and on the weekends.
The commitment of being a resident assistant has helped Tessmer manage his time better with classes and baseball practice. He decided to become a resident assistant because he thought it looked like a great opportunity to learn from a variety of people.
“The focus of Residence Life is community building,” said Bina.
To ensure this, resident assistants host programs for their residents to meet up and take a break from homework. The Residence Life staff for Saint Edward’s and Vlazny hosted a Super Bowl program for the residents, said Tessmer.
The programs have varied between different activities such as baking cookies, volunteering together and tours of sophomore dorms. Some programs are planned well in advanced and others are spontaneous, catering to what the residents want, said Jones.
For information about becoming a resident assistant in the future, visit the Residence Life Office in the basement of the Michael H. Toner Student Center.
Resident assistants are regular students, too
By Sarah McDonough
Co-Managing and Advertising editor
Junior Amanda Van Leeuwe may seem like your typical Resident Assistant – involved on campus and friendly to new faces, but there is much more about this Education major then meets the eye.
For starters, Van Leeuwe grew up on a farm and continues to work on her family’s corn and soy bean crops when she goes home for breaks. The time commitment and dedication that go along with the stamina to farm has taught Van Leeuwe many lessons.
“I learned an appreciation for people; on a farm you depend on a lot of people,” said Van Leeuwe.
One element of her job as a first floor RA for the all-female dorm, Skemp, is that she enjoys the opportunity to meet new people.
“I wouldn’t have had the chance to meet [the residents] otherwise, which is a sad thing because there are a lot of really cool people here.”
Third floor Skemp resident, Gabriela Limonciello, had the same reaction regarding fellow residents.
“It’s nice living in an all girls dorm because we all go through the same stuff and you end up living next to your close friends,” said Limonciello. “It’s like a sorority here.”
Besides hanging out with friends, Van Leeuwe spends her time preparing to be a teacher by helping tutor fellow SMU students in the area of math and government. She also helps in the basement of the McHenry Library for the 1st through 6th grade Literacy Clinic that takes place there during the week.
“I like to help people and always loved school and learning. I want to help people enjoy school and with teaching you can influence so many lives that you couldn’t with any other job.”
Co-Managing and Advertising editor
Junior Amanda Van Leeuwe may seem like your typical Resident Assistant – involved on campus and friendly to new faces, but there is much more about this Education major then meets the eye.
For starters, Van Leeuwe grew up on a farm and continues to work on her family’s corn and soy bean crops when she goes home for breaks. The time commitment and dedication that go along with the stamina to farm has taught Van Leeuwe many lessons.
“I learned an appreciation for people; on a farm you depend on a lot of people,” said Van Leeuwe.
One element of her job as a first floor RA for the all-female dorm, Skemp, is that she enjoys the opportunity to meet new people.
“I wouldn’t have had the chance to meet [the residents] otherwise, which is a sad thing because there are a lot of really cool people here.”
Third floor Skemp resident, Gabriela Limonciello, had the same reaction regarding fellow residents.
“It’s nice living in an all girls dorm because we all go through the same stuff and you end up living next to your close friends,” said Limonciello. “It’s like a sorority here.”
Besides hanging out with friends, Van Leeuwe spends her time preparing to be a teacher by helping tutor fellow SMU students in the area of math and government. She also helps in the basement of the McHenry Library for the 1st through 6th grade Literacy Clinic that takes place there during the week.
“I like to help people and always loved school and learning. I want to help people enjoy school and with teaching you can influence so many lives that you couldn’t with any other job.”
'Day at the Capitol' important for all students
By Kevin Halpin
Guest Writer
Thousands of college students from Minnesota lost a key part of their financial aid packages this year. Higher than expected demand meant that the need-based aid the state of Minnesota provides through the State Grant program had to be rationed. Rationing meant that many lost grants — and the remainder of grants shrunk.
Saint Mary’s isn’t the only university where students felt the impact. State Grant awards help one out of four Minnesota college students, whether they go to public or private institutions, whether they are earning a two-year or a four-year degree.
We need to prevent that kind of rationing next year. The budget that the Minnesota Legislature and Gov. Mark Dayton finalize this spring should fully fund the State Grant program; that way we can avoid a repeat of this year’s rationing and cuts. It would require $14 million more for next year, up from $145 million.
Yes, Minnesota faces a massive budget deficit, one that some combination of cuts to many programs and new revenues will have to address. Yet our request for additional State Grant funding still makes sense. Despite all the economic turmoil, Minnesota needs to keep making longer-term investments, ones that will sustain the region for the long haul. And investing in future college graduates — graduates who will be able to help drive this economy forward — is just the kind of investment we need to make.
The importance of having a college degree is only going to grow. And as the share of our state’s high schoolers who come from lower-income families increases, the State Grant program helps keep open the doors to opportunity. But the State Grant pays returns that go far beyond the families of the recipients; sustaining the state’s supply of college graduates is good for the whole state.
On March 31, Saint Mary’s will be participating the annual “Day at the Capitol”. This event provides students an invaluable opportunity to meet face-to-face with legislators to share stories about the importance of keeping college affordable.
If you’re interested in this issue, visit mnprivatecolleges.org/policy. That’s the website of the Minnesota Private College Council, which includes Saint Mary’s. You can find out more there about the State Grant program, what is going on in St. Paul and how you can get involved, including by coming to the Capitol to meet with your legislators. E-mail kphalp08@smumn.edu for more information about attending this year’s Day at the Capitol event.
Guest Writer
Thousands of college students from Minnesota lost a key part of their financial aid packages this year. Higher than expected demand meant that the need-based aid the state of Minnesota provides through the State Grant program had to be rationed. Rationing meant that many lost grants — and the remainder of grants shrunk.
Saint Mary’s isn’t the only university where students felt the impact. State Grant awards help one out of four Minnesota college students, whether they go to public or private institutions, whether they are earning a two-year or a four-year degree.
We need to prevent that kind of rationing next year. The budget that the Minnesota Legislature and Gov. Mark Dayton finalize this spring should fully fund the State Grant program; that way we can avoid a repeat of this year’s rationing and cuts. It would require $14 million more for next year, up from $145 million.
Yes, Minnesota faces a massive budget deficit, one that some combination of cuts to many programs and new revenues will have to address. Yet our request for additional State Grant funding still makes sense. Despite all the economic turmoil, Minnesota needs to keep making longer-term investments, ones that will sustain the region for the long haul. And investing in future college graduates — graduates who will be able to help drive this economy forward — is just the kind of investment we need to make.
The importance of having a college degree is only going to grow. And as the share of our state’s high schoolers who come from lower-income families increases, the State Grant program helps keep open the doors to opportunity. But the State Grant pays returns that go far beyond the families of the recipients; sustaining the state’s supply of college graduates is good for the whole state.
On March 31, Saint Mary’s will be participating the annual “Day at the Capitol”. This event provides students an invaluable opportunity to meet face-to-face with legislators to share stories about the importance of keeping college affordable.
If you’re interested in this issue, visit mnprivatecolleges.org/policy. That’s the website of the Minnesota Private College Council, which includes Saint Mary’s. You can find out more there about the State Grant program, what is going on in St. Paul and how you can get involved, including by coming to the Capitol to meet with your legislators. E-mail kphalp08@smumn.edu for more information about attending this year’s Day at the Capitol event.
Outstanding Senior Candidates of 2011
Hilary Ethen
Major: K-8 Elementary Education with a Math concentration
SMU Activities: OMN, S.O.U.L, T.E.C., ASCD, Residence Life, Relay for Life, Mass Choir, KDP, Intramurals, Women’s Tennis, SMU Volunteer Services, Student Leadership Program Team, Students for Life, ITA Literacy Clinic, Lasallian Collegians, Habitat for Humanity, Ambassadors & Outdoor Club
Advice for underclassman: “As cliché as it sounds, ‘make every second count.’ Enjoy the bluffs, the people, and yes, even the caf food because before you know it, they’ll become distant memories to relish in for years to come!”
Jennifer Koezly
Majors: Chemistry, Engineering Physics
SMU Activities: Senior Class officer, Women’s Lacrosse Club, Physics and Astronomy Club, Chemistry Club, Academic Skills Center Tutor, T.E.C. Retreat leader, S.O.U.L.
Advice for underclassmen: “College is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I would encourage all students to fully engage in their academic endeavors, become involved with campus organizations, and share life with their fellow classmates. Realize what a gift this time is– it goes by so fast!”
Ali Kremer
Majors: Public Relations, Sociology
SMU Activities: Student Senate, Students for Life, New Student Orientation leader, various Campus Ministry activities (Outreach Retreats, T.E.C. retreats, volunteering at St. Anne’s Nursing Home, liturgical ministries, etc), Phonathon, Alumni and Development Office student worker, Senior Class Gift Committee
Advice for underclassman: “Give your entire being to what you do during your time here and don't be afraid to passionately lay your life down in service of others. Most importantly, never cease to fight for all that is true, good and beautiful.”
Sami Traxler
Major: Public Relations
SMU Activities: SAC president, Student Senate, Volunteer Mentors, Taylor Richmond Benefit Dance Committee, SMU Admissions Ambassador, Phonothon, T.E.C.
Advice for underclassman: “Climb to the rock, go sledding in the bluffs, try-out for Blue Angel or Gaslight, join SAC and don't stress out so much that you miss how fun college can be!”
Libby Perkins
Major: Human Services
SMU Activities: Captain of Women’s Lacrosse Club, facilitator for Peace and Justice Club, Volunteer Mentor-Volunteer Services, Senior Class Gift Committee, Choir
Advice for underclassman: “Take advantage of all the opportunities for involvement that Saint Mary’s gives you. By getting involved I have been able to grow individually in many aspects of my life- spiritually, socially, and academically. More importantly the relationships that I have built with students, professors and staff have enabled me to discover a better sense of who I am, what I believe in and how I can transform and empower others to believe the same.”
Santiago Escobar
Major: Sport Management, International Business, Spanish
SMU Activities: Resident Assistant, Admissions Ambassador, Liturgical Choir, T.E.C., S.O.U.L., Habitat for Humanity, Cardinal Newspaper, TRBD Committee, SMU Centennial Celebration Committee, SAC, Academic Skills Center tutor, Ultimate Frisbee, fencing, Intramurals, Knights of Columbus, ICAA
Advice for underclassman: “Take advantage of all the activities and opportunities that are offered around campus. Then, learn to have the right balance between them while focusing on academics.”
Lukas Holland
Major: Social Science
SMU Activities: Men’s Basketball, Flood Relief volunteer, SMU Kids Day volunteer, Cardinal Athletic Council, Little Cardinals Basketball Camp, Presidential focus group for campus improvement, Blue Angel participant, Battle of the Bands participant
Advice for underclassmen: “Step out of your comfort zone every once in a while to experience something new. It will be those moments (and the people you experience them with) that will make your time in college memorable, so don’t hesitate to venture off from what you’re accustomed to.”
Benton Kodet
Major: English Education
SMU Activities: Cross Country, Indoor Track, Outdoor Track, Resident Assistant, Intramurals
Advice for underclassmen: “Get yourself out there. Your education is the most important part of college, but you need to get yourself involved with other things to experience the true college experience.”
Sean Ohl
Major: Biology - Pre Med
SMU Activities: Resident Assistant (3 years), president of the Tri-Beta National Biological Honors Society Gamma Epsilon Chapter, Varsity Baseball Team (07-08)
Advice for underclassmen: “Use your time at SMU to try new things, make great memories and put yourself out there, but never forget that graduation is a short four years away. Make sure you use your time at SMU to organize and prepare for the future, involving yourself in as many internships and real-world experiences as you can find.”
Dan Streefland
Major: Theology
SMU Activities: Intramurals, Ultimate Frisbee Club, Volunteer Mentor (3 years), Liturgical Choir, Ropes Course facilitator, Student Senate (2 years), Class Officer (2 years), Senior Class Gift Committee
Advice for underclassman: “Get to know your professors and the staff on a personal level; their knowledge of life is as valuable as the knowledge they teach from a textbook. Allow yourself to be frustrated by the intensity of submersing into your studies; knowledge is your friend.”
Ryan Wockenfus
Major: Elementary Education
SMU Activities: Men's Varsity Basketball, Men's Varsity Track and Field, KSMR programming director
Advice for underclassman: “College provides so many opportunities in a variety of areas. Take full advantage of these opportunities and make your time at Saint Mary's the greatest of your life. Ask questions, be active, and most importantly, enjoy yourself!”
Major: K-8 Elementary Education with a Math concentration
SMU Activities: OMN, S.O.U.L, T.E.C., ASCD, Residence Life, Relay for Life, Mass Choir, KDP, Intramurals, Women’s Tennis, SMU Volunteer Services, Student Leadership Program Team, Students for Life, ITA Literacy Clinic, Lasallian Collegians, Habitat for Humanity, Ambassadors & Outdoor Club
Advice for underclassman: “As cliché as it sounds, ‘make every second count.’ Enjoy the bluffs, the people, and yes, even the caf food because before you know it, they’ll become distant memories to relish in for years to come!”
Jennifer Koezly
Majors: Chemistry, Engineering Physics
SMU Activities: Senior Class officer, Women’s Lacrosse Club, Physics and Astronomy Club, Chemistry Club, Academic Skills Center Tutor, T.E.C. Retreat leader, S.O.U.L.
Advice for underclassmen: “College is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I would encourage all students to fully engage in their academic endeavors, become involved with campus organizations, and share life with their fellow classmates. Realize what a gift this time is– it goes by so fast!”
Ali Kremer
Majors: Public Relations, Sociology
SMU Activities: Student Senate, Students for Life, New Student Orientation leader, various Campus Ministry activities (Outreach Retreats, T.E.C. retreats, volunteering at St. Anne’s Nursing Home, liturgical ministries, etc), Phonathon, Alumni and Development Office student worker, Senior Class Gift Committee
Advice for underclassman: “Give your entire being to what you do during your time here and don't be afraid to passionately lay your life down in service of others. Most importantly, never cease to fight for all that is true, good and beautiful.”
Sami Traxler
Major: Public Relations
SMU Activities: SAC president, Student Senate, Volunteer Mentors, Taylor Richmond Benefit Dance Committee, SMU Admissions Ambassador, Phonothon, T.E.C.
Advice for underclassman: “Climb to the rock, go sledding in the bluffs, try-out for Blue Angel or Gaslight, join SAC and don't stress out so much that you miss how fun college can be!”
Libby Perkins
Major: Human Services
SMU Activities: Captain of Women’s Lacrosse Club, facilitator for Peace and Justice Club, Volunteer Mentor-Volunteer Services, Senior Class Gift Committee, Choir
Advice for underclassman: “Take advantage of all the opportunities for involvement that Saint Mary’s gives you. By getting involved I have been able to grow individually in many aspects of my life- spiritually, socially, and academically. More importantly the relationships that I have built with students, professors and staff have enabled me to discover a better sense of who I am, what I believe in and how I can transform and empower others to believe the same.”
Santiago Escobar
Major: Sport Management, International Business, Spanish
SMU Activities: Resident Assistant, Admissions Ambassador, Liturgical Choir, T.E.C., S.O.U.L., Habitat for Humanity, Cardinal Newspaper, TRBD Committee, SMU Centennial Celebration Committee, SAC, Academic Skills Center tutor, Ultimate Frisbee, fencing, Intramurals, Knights of Columbus, ICAA
Advice for underclassman: “Take advantage of all the activities and opportunities that are offered around campus. Then, learn to have the right balance between them while focusing on academics.”
Lukas Holland
Major: Social Science
SMU Activities: Men’s Basketball, Flood Relief volunteer, SMU Kids Day volunteer, Cardinal Athletic Council, Little Cardinals Basketball Camp, Presidential focus group for campus improvement, Blue Angel participant, Battle of the Bands participant
Advice for underclassmen: “Step out of your comfort zone every once in a while to experience something new. It will be those moments (and the people you experience them with) that will make your time in college memorable, so don’t hesitate to venture off from what you’re accustomed to.”
Benton Kodet
Major: English Education
SMU Activities: Cross Country, Indoor Track, Outdoor Track, Resident Assistant, Intramurals
Advice for underclassmen: “Get yourself out there. Your education is the most important part of college, but you need to get yourself involved with other things to experience the true college experience.”
Sean Ohl
Major: Biology - Pre Med
SMU Activities: Resident Assistant (3 years), president of the Tri-Beta National Biological Honors Society Gamma Epsilon Chapter, Varsity Baseball Team (07-08)
Advice for underclassmen: “Use your time at SMU to try new things, make great memories and put yourself out there, but never forget that graduation is a short four years away. Make sure you use your time at SMU to organize and prepare for the future, involving yourself in as many internships and real-world experiences as you can find.”
Dan Streefland
Major: Theology
SMU Activities: Intramurals, Ultimate Frisbee Club, Volunteer Mentor (3 years), Liturgical Choir, Ropes Course facilitator, Student Senate (2 years), Class Officer (2 years), Senior Class Gift Committee
Advice for underclassman: “Get to know your professors and the staff on a personal level; their knowledge of life is as valuable as the knowledge they teach from a textbook. Allow yourself to be frustrated by the intensity of submersing into your studies; knowledge is your friend.”
Ryan Wockenfus
Major: Elementary Education
SMU Activities: Men's Varsity Basketball, Men's Varsity Track and Field, KSMR programming director
Advice for underclassman: “College provides so many opportunities in a variety of areas. Take full advantage of these opportunities and make your time at Saint Mary's the greatest of your life. Ask questions, be active, and most importantly, enjoy yourself!”
Fireside 2011 lights up the stage
By Alexa Wallick
Cardinal Staff
Students, faculty, and family members gathered around candle-lit tables Feb 11-12 while enjoying refreshments and pie as they watched Saint Mary’s University students put on a coffee-house style performance.
Fireside, sponsored by the sisters of Sigma Alpha Iota, annually plays to a full audience in the Common Room in Saint Mary’s Hall. The show consisted of 19 acts, each performer putting their own twist on songs such as “Your Love is my Drug” by Ke$ha and even “Quit Playing Games with My Heart” by the Backstreet Boys. Katie Keck and Chad Divine, the emcees for the show, were not only hilarious, but also had a few musical acts up their sleeves.
The show was run and performed entirely by students. The show is a great fundraiser for the female fraternity and is a visible demonstration of the hard work and effort singers, performers and musicians put into the show.
Cardinal Staff
Students, faculty, and family members gathered around candle-lit tables Feb 11-12 while enjoying refreshments and pie as they watched Saint Mary’s University students put on a coffee-house style performance.
Fireside, sponsored by the sisters of Sigma Alpha Iota, annually plays to a full audience in the Common Room in Saint Mary’s Hall. The show consisted of 19 acts, each performer putting their own twist on songs such as “Your Love is my Drug” by Ke$ha and even “Quit Playing Games with My Heart” by the Backstreet Boys. Katie Keck and Chad Divine, the emcees for the show, were not only hilarious, but also had a few musical acts up their sleeves.
The show was run and performed entirely by students. The show is a great fundraiser for the female fraternity and is a visible demonstration of the hard work and effort singers, performers and musicians put into the show.
Chamber singers to perform in Rome over spring break
By Trisha Stachowski
Cardinal Staff
The Saint Mary’s University Chamber Singers will be touring in Rome, Italy March 5-14 during spring break.
Associate Professor of Music and Director of Choirs, Patrick O’Shea, explained that the Chamber Singers go on an international tour every other year. According to O’Shea, “the students expressed an interest in Rome and the Christian Brothers have an institution in Rome, so there is a connection to [SMU].” While in Rome, the students will have an opportunity to sightsee both individually and as a group when they are not busy performing, stated O’Shea. The Chamber Singers will perform one complete concert and three liturgies while in Rome.
Previously, the Chamber Singers have traveled to Paris, Germany, Austria, Ireland, Colorado, Saint Louis and New England, said O’Shea. The Chamber Singers try to work in local performances prior to departing on their international tours. O’Shea explained that the Chamber Singers have performed in Chicago as well as the Twin Cities on the day prior to their departure.
The Chamber Singers will be performing the same set list when they return to the U.S. The free concert will be held Thursday, March 17, at 7:30 p.m. at the Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels.
In addition, the Chamber Singers will be releasing a CD soon. The CD will feature all of the music that was to be performed at the “Lessons and Carols” concert, that was cancelled due to a snowstorm.
Cardinal Staff
The Saint Mary’s University Chamber Singers will be touring in Rome, Italy March 5-14 during spring break.
Associate Professor of Music and Director of Choirs, Patrick O’Shea, explained that the Chamber Singers go on an international tour every other year. According to O’Shea, “the students expressed an interest in Rome and the Christian Brothers have an institution in Rome, so there is a connection to [SMU].” While in Rome, the students will have an opportunity to sightsee both individually and as a group when they are not busy performing, stated O’Shea. The Chamber Singers will perform one complete concert and three liturgies while in Rome.
Previously, the Chamber Singers have traveled to Paris, Germany, Austria, Ireland, Colorado, Saint Louis and New England, said O’Shea. The Chamber Singers try to work in local performances prior to departing on their international tours. O’Shea explained that the Chamber Singers have performed in Chicago as well as the Twin Cities on the day prior to their departure.
The Chamber Singers will be performing the same set list when they return to the U.S. The free concert will be held Thursday, March 17, at 7:30 p.m. at the Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels.
In addition, the Chamber Singers will be releasing a CD soon. The CD will feature all of the music that was to be performed at the “Lessons and Carols” concert, that was cancelled due to a snowstorm.
First 'International Week' held
By Jessica LaCanne
Arts and Entertainment Editor
In order to celebrate international students and students who have had international experiences, Saint Mary’s University held its first International Week from Feb. 14-19.
Although there was an international showcase last year, 2011 was the first year to celebrate for an entire week, said Laura Schmidt, director of Student Activities. According to Schmidt, International Week included faculty discussions, international dance lessons, a yoga session, viewing of the film “Babies,” a fair and the showcase.
Discussion topics included global warming, Palestine, and unrest in the Sudan, said Schmidt. The Ballroom Dance Club provided lessons and the Yoga Club sponsored a yoga session. “Babies” told the story of four babies, one from Mongolia, Namibia, San Francisco and Tokyo, said Schmidt.
The International Fair, held in the cafeteria, displayed items and photos from international students’ home country. Students who studied abroad could also highlight their experience through photos or souvenirs, Schmidt said.
Beginning in November, both students and faculty helped organize International Week. “Faculty included Chris Kendall, Bob Fisher, Brit Wagner, Lance Thompson, and myself,” said Schmidt. Students who helped include Yiyun Wang, Long Chen and Jessica Alcazar.
“I think this year was a good start,” said Schmidt. “I'm hoping next year that students will understand the importance of International Week and the countless opportunities there are to discover all things international during this week.”
Arts and Entertainment Editor
In order to celebrate international students and students who have had international experiences, Saint Mary’s University held its first International Week from Feb. 14-19.
Although there was an international showcase last year, 2011 was the first year to celebrate for an entire week, said Laura Schmidt, director of Student Activities. According to Schmidt, International Week included faculty discussions, international dance lessons, a yoga session, viewing of the film “Babies,” a fair and the showcase.
Discussion topics included global warming, Palestine, and unrest in the Sudan, said Schmidt. The Ballroom Dance Club provided lessons and the Yoga Club sponsored a yoga session. “Babies” told the story of four babies, one from Mongolia, Namibia, San Francisco and Tokyo, said Schmidt.
The International Fair, held in the cafeteria, displayed items and photos from international students’ home country. Students who studied abroad could also highlight their experience through photos or souvenirs, Schmidt said.
Beginning in November, both students and faculty helped organize International Week. “Faculty included Chris Kendall, Bob Fisher, Brit Wagner, Lance Thompson, and myself,” said Schmidt. Students who helped include Yiyun Wang, Long Chen and Jessica Alcazar.
“I think this year was a good start,” said Schmidt. “I'm hoping next year that students will understand the importance of International Week and the countless opportunities there are to discover all things international during this week.”
SMU duo leaves basketball program with memories on and off the court
By Alex Conover
Sports Editor
Saint Mary’s University men’s basketball top ten scorers of all time welcomed two new members in 2011.
After playing their last games as Cardinals, SMU added Will Wright and Lukas Holland to that elite club. The seniors will graduate sitting at the fourth and ninth spots, respectively.
The duo’s scoring statistics are incredible; Will maintained a 17.7 scoring average throughout his career, and Lukas is No. 1 all time in 3-point shots made (141). From a purely scoring standpoint, they could be each considered one of the best that the program has seen since Donald Jordan graduated in 1996.
Statistics aside, anyone associated with SMU basketball will tell you that their careers were marked more by the relationships that they built rather than how many points they scored.
“What’s very important is that they are glad they came to SMU and that they made good friends,” said SMU coach Todd Landrum. “They will be good alumni, and they will continue to care about SMU.”
Both players — who have remained great friends since living in the same freshman wing at Benilde Hall — agreed that the best thing about playing at SMU was the people around them.
“The people I met had to be the best part,” said Holland. “Every day at practice and every road trip was a new experience. They made my time here what it was.”
Wright echoed similar feelings about his teammates.
“I loved the team in general,” said Wright. “It was great how close we were as a team — especially the six seniors who came in together.”
Holland’s top memory from playing at SMU was last year’s historic win at home over Gustavus Adolphus College — a team that the Cardinals had not beaten in nearly 20 years.
Wright mentioned this year’s holiday tournament as his favorite moment, as he made a buzzer-beater to beat Illinois College in the championship game.
After college, the two seniors plan to go on very different paths.
“I have been talking with my coaches about some opportunities to play basketball overseas,” said Wright. “That’s my plan right now. My long-term plan is to use my major in accounting to find a career.”
Holland, who has emerged as a musical talent this year in campus events like Blue Angel and Battle of the Bands, is going to take his talents to the west coast.
“I’m moving out to Los Angeles,” said Holland. “I’ll live with my brother out there and look for a job. I want to live a fun life while I can.”
When asked about what the future may hold for these two, their coach was optimistic that they can excel at many things besides basketball.
“Basketball was just one of the things that they liked to do,” said coach Landrum. “They are both very well-rounded. They see the big picture.”
Sports Editor
Saint Mary’s University men’s basketball top ten scorers of all time welcomed two new members in 2011.
After playing their last games as Cardinals, SMU added Will Wright and Lukas Holland to that elite club. The seniors will graduate sitting at the fourth and ninth spots, respectively.
The duo’s scoring statistics are incredible; Will maintained a 17.7 scoring average throughout his career, and Lukas is No. 1 all time in 3-point shots made (141). From a purely scoring standpoint, they could be each considered one of the best that the program has seen since Donald Jordan graduated in 1996.
Statistics aside, anyone associated with SMU basketball will tell you that their careers were marked more by the relationships that they built rather than how many points they scored.
“What’s very important is that they are glad they came to SMU and that they made good friends,” said SMU coach Todd Landrum. “They will be good alumni, and they will continue to care about SMU.”
Both players — who have remained great friends since living in the same freshman wing at Benilde Hall — agreed that the best thing about playing at SMU was the people around them.
“The people I met had to be the best part,” said Holland. “Every day at practice and every road trip was a new experience. They made my time here what it was.”
Wright echoed similar feelings about his teammates.
“I loved the team in general,” said Wright. “It was great how close we were as a team — especially the six seniors who came in together.”
Holland’s top memory from playing at SMU was last year’s historic win at home over Gustavus Adolphus College — a team that the Cardinals had not beaten in nearly 20 years.
Wright mentioned this year’s holiday tournament as his favorite moment, as he made a buzzer-beater to beat Illinois College in the championship game.
After college, the two seniors plan to go on very different paths.
“I have been talking with my coaches about some opportunities to play basketball overseas,” said Wright. “That’s my plan right now. My long-term plan is to use my major in accounting to find a career.”
Holland, who has emerged as a musical talent this year in campus events like Blue Angel and Battle of the Bands, is going to take his talents to the west coast.
“I’m moving out to Los Angeles,” said Holland. “I’ll live with my brother out there and look for a job. I want to live a fun life while I can.”
When asked about what the future may hold for these two, their coach was optimistic that they can excel at many things besides basketball.
“Basketball was just one of the things that they liked to do,” said coach Landrum. “They are both very well-rounded. They see the big picture.”
Braving the cold: cross-country skiing
By Nick Bravos
Cardinal Staff
Minnesota winters do not hinder cross-country skiers—in fact, they’re probably the only ones who do not want an early spring.
The trail system in the bluffs has been described as one of the finest in the Midwest, and on Jan. 30, SMU hosted 100 participants in the seventh annual 10K cross-country ski race. Not only do the trails bring together skiers of all ages, styles and talents, but they are also a hot spot in the warmer months for hiking and running.
Since the mid-1970s, skiers in Brother John Grover’s month-long classical skiing class have cruised the trails in the bluffs.
For the past 40 years, Grover has found his passion in cross-country skiing, and can be seen powering out the trails. “I go every day when I can; there’s no better exercise,” said Grover.
SMU’s Environmental Awareness Center (EAC) holds an arsenal of outdoor equipment such as skis, ski boots, tents, sleeping bags, canoes, kayaks, and snowshoes that are free to rent with a student ID. “There have been times where the ski equipment is almost completely checked out,” Grover said.
Most of the equipment in the EAC is donated from within the community, and the money Grover makes from his class goes towards new equipment. “So, really, I don’t get paid for the class, it’s just a hobby,” said Grover.
Every year, 7,000-8,500 other skiing enthusiasts from all across the nation gather in Wisconsin for the American Birkebeiner. “The Birkie” is North America’s largest cross-country ski marathon stretching from Cable to Hayward, Wis.; it spans 50K (31 miles) for skaters, and 54K (34 miles) for classical skiers.
“There are fewer than 30 of us who have completed the 54K Birkie more than 32 times,” Grover said. Veterans like Grover “get to wear a special golden bib during the race.”
Beginning in 1976, Brother Jerome Rademacher carved out and groomed the trails in the bluffs known as Yon’s Valley into the “35-year work in progress it is today,” Grover said, “around 16K.”
Two years ago, Rademacher’s battle with supranuclear palsy became severe, causing him to now reside at St. Anne Extended Healthcare. In Rademacher’s absence, Winona’s Nordic Ski Club has stepped in to help take care of grooming.
Before Rademacher took his leave for health reasons, skiers could see him doing what he loves: grooming the trails with his tractor and skiing. SMU has its own grooming tractor, or Piston Bully, that runs up and through the bluffs with a sled behind it to manipulate and compact the snow. “We also have two snowmobiles with different sleds that compacts and creates grooves,” Grover said.
Cardinal Staff
Minnesota winters do not hinder cross-country skiers—in fact, they’re probably the only ones who do not want an early spring.
The trail system in the bluffs has been described as one of the finest in the Midwest, and on Jan. 30, SMU hosted 100 participants in the seventh annual 10K cross-country ski race. Not only do the trails bring together skiers of all ages, styles and talents, but they are also a hot spot in the warmer months for hiking and running.
Since the mid-1970s, skiers in Brother John Grover’s month-long classical skiing class have cruised the trails in the bluffs.
For the past 40 years, Grover has found his passion in cross-country skiing, and can be seen powering out the trails. “I go every day when I can; there’s no better exercise,” said Grover.
SMU’s Environmental Awareness Center (EAC) holds an arsenal of outdoor equipment such as skis, ski boots, tents, sleeping bags, canoes, kayaks, and snowshoes that are free to rent with a student ID. “There have been times where the ski equipment is almost completely checked out,” Grover said.
Most of the equipment in the EAC is donated from within the community, and the money Grover makes from his class goes towards new equipment. “So, really, I don’t get paid for the class, it’s just a hobby,” said Grover.
Every year, 7,000-8,500 other skiing enthusiasts from all across the nation gather in Wisconsin for the American Birkebeiner. “The Birkie” is North America’s largest cross-country ski marathon stretching from Cable to Hayward, Wis.; it spans 50K (31 miles) for skaters, and 54K (34 miles) for classical skiers.
“There are fewer than 30 of us who have completed the 54K Birkie more than 32 times,” Grover said. Veterans like Grover “get to wear a special golden bib during the race.”
Beginning in 1976, Brother Jerome Rademacher carved out and groomed the trails in the bluffs known as Yon’s Valley into the “35-year work in progress it is today,” Grover said, “around 16K.”
Two years ago, Rademacher’s battle with supranuclear palsy became severe, causing him to now reside at St. Anne Extended Healthcare. In Rademacher’s absence, Winona’s Nordic Ski Club has stepped in to help take care of grooming.
Before Rademacher took his leave for health reasons, skiers could see him doing what he loves: grooming the trails with his tractor and skiing. SMU has its own grooming tractor, or Piston Bully, that runs up and through the bluffs with a sled behind it to manipulate and compact the snow. “We also have two snowmobiles with different sleds that compacts and creates grooves,” Grover said.
Women's hockey misses playoffs
By Julianne Bartosz
Cardinal Staff
The final puck has dropped for the Saint Mary’s University women’s hockey team, as their 4-2 loss on Feb. 26 against St. Olaf will keep them out of the playoffs.
Throughout the season, it was hard to tell who would earn their berth for the post-season conference tournament. The standings remained close, coming down to the final series of the season. For the second year in a row, SMU’s playoff chances relied on their final conference competition against St. Olaf.
Last year, St. Olaf barely squeezed into the playoff season, only to knock SMU out. This year, the Cardinals were ready for action in hopes of a successful season.
The Cardinals, coached by Terry Mannor, returned with their core players from last season. Adding to that, the 26-player roster consisted of 16 new players, all freshmen. The young talent of the team stepped up for the challenges that the Cardinals faced. In fact, freshman Haley Coolsaet led the Cardinals in goals this season. Not far behind her were returning players junior Nicole Olson and sophomore Erin Stenseth.
To balance the Cardinals’ offense, SMU’s goalies were key to the success that SMU came away with this season. Sophomore Kaye Collier returned to the ice alongside freshman Sarah Gustafson. Collier’s big saves throughout the season ranked her among the MIAC’s top goalies in regards to average goals against, save percentage and win percentage. Also, Gustafson led the MIAC as the No. 1 goalie with save percentage for a good portion of the season.
Despite their loss, the Cardinals will continue to build off of every season and keep Cardinal pride alive at SMU.
Cardinal Staff
The final puck has dropped for the Saint Mary’s University women’s hockey team, as their 4-2 loss on Feb. 26 against St. Olaf will keep them out of the playoffs.
Throughout the season, it was hard to tell who would earn their berth for the post-season conference tournament. The standings remained close, coming down to the final series of the season. For the second year in a row, SMU’s playoff chances relied on their final conference competition against St. Olaf.
Last year, St. Olaf barely squeezed into the playoff season, only to knock SMU out. This year, the Cardinals were ready for action in hopes of a successful season.
The Cardinals, coached by Terry Mannor, returned with their core players from last season. Adding to that, the 26-player roster consisted of 16 new players, all freshmen. The young talent of the team stepped up for the challenges that the Cardinals faced. In fact, freshman Haley Coolsaet led the Cardinals in goals this season. Not far behind her were returning players junior Nicole Olson and sophomore Erin Stenseth.
To balance the Cardinals’ offense, SMU’s goalies were key to the success that SMU came away with this season. Sophomore Kaye Collier returned to the ice alongside freshman Sarah Gustafson. Collier’s big saves throughout the season ranked her among the MIAC’s top goalies in regards to average goals against, save percentage and win percentage. Also, Gustafson led the MIAC as the No. 1 goalie with save percentage for a good portion of the season.
Despite their loss, the Cardinals will continue to build off of every season and keep Cardinal pride alive at SMU.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Computer science class helps kids
By Trisha Stachowski
Cardinal Staff
A “Computer Science for Good” class at Saint Mary’s University is currently taking the initiative to give back to impoverished children through the One Laptop per Child (OLPC) program.
Junior Jeff Thomas explained, “‘Computer Science for Good’ is a class that explores the effects computing can have on a multitude of issues in today's world.”
According to Thomas, the OLPC program is working to educate children in impoverished international areas by giving them laptops. SMU Chair of Computer Science, Ann Smith, said the laptops being given to the children are specially created to be energy efficient and highly durable.
The laptops will “provide a means for learning, self-expression and exploration to the nearly two billion children,” said Smith.
In addition to the OLPC program, the class is also involved in a program called Whole Kids Outreach (WKO), which was proposed by Smith. According to Thomas, WKO is a program based near Ellington, Mo., that aims to help struggling families with young children.
“The overall objective of this project is to develop a framework for a set of activities that can be used to teach children in rural, isolate regions about health and wellness,” said Smith.
In addition to sending two laptops to the Ellington, Mo., elementary school, five SMU students also traveled to the school to better understand the children’s situations, said Smith.
Thomas, one of the students who visited Missouri, stated, “It was a very eye-opening experience. We hope to introduce these laptops to this area to help combat some of the issues they are experiencing.”
Smith said that she considered this trip, and the class in general, to be an important experience to encourage the students to “develop technology solutions for social problems.”
Cardinal Staff
A “Computer Science for Good” class at Saint Mary’s University is currently taking the initiative to give back to impoverished children through the One Laptop per Child (OLPC) program.
Junior Jeff Thomas explained, “‘Computer Science for Good’ is a class that explores the effects computing can have on a multitude of issues in today's world.”
According to Thomas, the OLPC program is working to educate children in impoverished international areas by giving them laptops. SMU Chair of Computer Science, Ann Smith, said the laptops being given to the children are specially created to be energy efficient and highly durable.
The laptops will “provide a means for learning, self-expression and exploration to the nearly two billion children,” said Smith.
In addition to the OLPC program, the class is also involved in a program called Whole Kids Outreach (WKO), which was proposed by Smith. According to Thomas, WKO is a program based near Ellington, Mo., that aims to help struggling families with young children.
“The overall objective of this project is to develop a framework for a set of activities that can be used to teach children in rural, isolate regions about health and wellness,” said Smith.
In addition to sending two laptops to the Ellington, Mo., elementary school, five SMU students also traveled to the school to better understand the children’s situations, said Smith.
Thomas, one of the students who visited Missouri, stated, “It was a very eye-opening experience. We hope to introduce these laptops to this area to help combat some of the issues they are experiencing.”
Smith said that she considered this trip, and the class in general, to be an important experience to encourage the students to “develop technology solutions for social problems.”
SMU ranked first for minority grads in STEM programs
By Lauren Rothering
Editor in Chief
According to a recent Forbes report, Saint Mary’s University is the nation’s top-ranked university for graduating minority students in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs.
“The school doesn’t have a large minority population,” Forbes reports. “But of those minority students, 35% received their degrees in STEM—well above the median among colleges, which is just 10%.”
SMU offers STEM programs both at its Winona campus and in bachelor completion programs at its Twin Cities campus. To conduct their research, Forbes compared the percentage of blacks, Hispanics, and American Indians (groups typically underrepresented in STEM) to whites and Asians (groups typically well-represented in STEM). Forbes excluded from its study those schools whose student population is almost entirely minority students.
Through this process, SMU came out on top, even though its university-wide undergraduate “graduating class of 2008 was barely 10% minority, just above the national median,” said the report.
According to Dr. Thomas Mans, professor of social science and director of college assessment, SMU’s Lasallian heritage plays a large part in the rankings.
“We take that [our heritage] very seriously.” With regard to the Winona undergraduate college, Mans said “We’re self-consciously not an elite institution. It makes it really good for kids who are first-generation, for kids who are coming from modest backgrounds,” said Mans.
STEM program graduates typically have the highest starting and mid-career salaries, said the report, a fact that Mans deems important for SMU students, especially.
“STEM careers are great careers; we know that, and we get that message across to them [the students],” said Mans. “There is this sense that part of our mission is to find [students] with potential and to make it work for them when it may not have worked for them somewhere else.”
Editor in Chief
According to a recent Forbes report, Saint Mary’s University is the nation’s top-ranked university for graduating minority students in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs.
“The school doesn’t have a large minority population,” Forbes reports. “But of those minority students, 35% received their degrees in STEM—well above the median among colleges, which is just 10%.”
SMU offers STEM programs both at its Winona campus and in bachelor completion programs at its Twin Cities campus. To conduct their research, Forbes compared the percentage of blacks, Hispanics, and American Indians (groups typically underrepresented in STEM) to whites and Asians (groups typically well-represented in STEM). Forbes excluded from its study those schools whose student population is almost entirely minority students.
Through this process, SMU came out on top, even though its university-wide undergraduate “graduating class of 2008 was barely 10% minority, just above the national median,” said the report.
According to Dr. Thomas Mans, professor of social science and director of college assessment, SMU’s Lasallian heritage plays a large part in the rankings.
“We take that [our heritage] very seriously.” With regard to the Winona undergraduate college, Mans said “We’re self-consciously not an elite institution. It makes it really good for kids who are first-generation, for kids who are coming from modest backgrounds,” said Mans.
STEM program graduates typically have the highest starting and mid-career salaries, said the report, a fact that Mans deems important for SMU students, especially.
“STEM careers are great careers; we know that, and we get that message across to them [the students],” said Mans. “There is this sense that part of our mission is to find [students] with potential and to make it work for them when it may not have worked for them somewhere else.”
Controversy remains for French major and minor
By Andrea Allis
Copy Editor
Toward the end of the spring semester last year, the French major and minor at Saint Mary’s University were suspended by the curriculum committee based on findings presented to a faculty committee formed to discuss the issue.
According to Dorothy Diehl, Ph.D., chair of modern and classical languages, the faculty committee was formed at the end of the 2009-2010 academic year at the request of SMU President Brother William Mann. Administration made the decision to suspend the French major and minor shortly after the committee’s decision, Diehl said.
According to Marilyn Frost, Ph.D., vice president for academic affairs, the administration’s decision was based on research on the French major over the last 10 years. In her report to the faculty committee, Frost said she looked at the number of students enrolled in French courses and the faculty hours it takes to staff those courses. She also compared the French department with other SMU departments.
Since foreign language is one of only two academic departments at SMU that is not included in general education program requirements, French class sizes are typically very small, Diehl said. French classes only fulfill the requirements of French majors and minors, Diehl said.
Based on the research presented to the faculty committee by both Diehl and Frost, it was decided that it was “not viable” to continue the French major, Frost said. She added that if an increase in students interested in French at SMU is observed in the future, the French program issue will be “revisited in an expedient way.”
Still, Diehl finds it “difficult to justify” the discontinuation of the French program at SMU. She said that French has been offered at SMU since she became a part of the faculty in 1999 and that relatively little has changed in the way of student interest in the French program or the how the program itself is run. Said Diehl, “It’s difficult to understand why such a sudden decision was made without asking the students how they felt about it.”
Diehl further described the decision as “short-sighted.” She said that this decision will make SMU one of two liberal arts schools in Minnesota that does not have a foreign language requirement and that only offers one foreign language as a major or minor. (Spanish is now the only foreign language major or minor at SMU.)
“This decision will not make [Saint Mary’s University] more appealing,” said Diehl. “We are not thinking of what’s best for our students or for our university.”
Frost said French classes at SMU will still be offered on a rotating basis according to interest. Frost, Diehl and Elizabeth Throop, Ph.D., dean for the School of Humanities and Sciences, will meet to determine how often French classes will be offered.
Currently, there are three students majoring and three minoring in French at SMU, Diehl said. Those students who had already declared a French major or minor prior to its suspension will be able to take the necessary classes to complete it, Diehl said.
Copy Editor
Toward the end of the spring semester last year, the French major and minor at Saint Mary’s University were suspended by the curriculum committee based on findings presented to a faculty committee formed to discuss the issue.
According to Dorothy Diehl, Ph.D., chair of modern and classical languages, the faculty committee was formed at the end of the 2009-2010 academic year at the request of SMU President Brother William Mann. Administration made the decision to suspend the French major and minor shortly after the committee’s decision, Diehl said.
According to Marilyn Frost, Ph.D., vice president for academic affairs, the administration’s decision was based on research on the French major over the last 10 years. In her report to the faculty committee, Frost said she looked at the number of students enrolled in French courses and the faculty hours it takes to staff those courses. She also compared the French department with other SMU departments.
Since foreign language is one of only two academic departments at SMU that is not included in general education program requirements, French class sizes are typically very small, Diehl said. French classes only fulfill the requirements of French majors and minors, Diehl said.
Based on the research presented to the faculty committee by both Diehl and Frost, it was decided that it was “not viable” to continue the French major, Frost said. She added that if an increase in students interested in French at SMU is observed in the future, the French program issue will be “revisited in an expedient way.”
Still, Diehl finds it “difficult to justify” the discontinuation of the French program at SMU. She said that French has been offered at SMU since she became a part of the faculty in 1999 and that relatively little has changed in the way of student interest in the French program or the how the program itself is run. Said Diehl, “It’s difficult to understand why such a sudden decision was made without asking the students how they felt about it.”
Diehl further described the decision as “short-sighted.” She said that this decision will make SMU one of two liberal arts schools in Minnesota that does not have a foreign language requirement and that only offers one foreign language as a major or minor. (Spanish is now the only foreign language major or minor at SMU.)
“This decision will not make [Saint Mary’s University] more appealing,” said Diehl. “We are not thinking of what’s best for our students or for our university.”
Frost said French classes at SMU will still be offered on a rotating basis according to interest. Frost, Diehl and Elizabeth Throop, Ph.D., dean for the School of Humanities and Sciences, will meet to determine how often French classes will be offered.
Currently, there are three students majoring and three minoring in French at SMU, Diehl said. Those students who had already declared a French major or minor prior to its suspension will be able to take the necessary classes to complete it, Diehl said.
Senate Town Hall raises questions
By Suzie Roth
Co-Managing and Advertising Editor
Saint Mary’s University Student Senate held a Town Hall Meeting on Jan. 27 in Salvi Lecture Hall. Although all SMU Senate meetings are open to the public, this meeting was specially tailored as a forum for members of the SMU community, especially students, to share their opinions of the university, along with suggestions to improve it.
Using an organized approach, Senate President Ali Kramer, opened the floor for comments regarding Chartwells, Residence Life, the campus bookstore, Wellness Center, athletic facilities, academics, maintenance, and IT departments, along with the international affairs and student activities offered to the campus community.
Some members of the Executive Board seemed to alternate between seriously considering student requests and offering excuses and making jokes about student concerns.
The intent of the SMU’s Student Senate is to give all students in the campus community a voice. Although January’s Town Hall meeting provided the chance to express such views, students are encouraged to regularly attend senate meetings to ensure all students are adequately represented. Student Senate meetings are held every Tuesday night at 7 p.m. in Salvi Lecture Hall.
Co-Managing and Advertising Editor
Saint Mary’s University Student Senate held a Town Hall Meeting on Jan. 27 in Salvi Lecture Hall. Although all SMU Senate meetings are open to the public, this meeting was specially tailored as a forum for members of the SMU community, especially students, to share their opinions of the university, along with suggestions to improve it.
Using an organized approach, Senate President Ali Kramer, opened the floor for comments regarding Chartwells, Residence Life, the campus bookstore, Wellness Center, athletic facilities, academics, maintenance, and IT departments, along with the international affairs and student activities offered to the campus community.
Some members of the Executive Board seemed to alternate between seriously considering student requests and offering excuses and making jokes about student concerns.
The intent of the SMU’s Student Senate is to give all students in the campus community a voice. Although January’s Town Hall meeting provided the chance to express such views, students are encouraged to regularly attend senate meetings to ensure all students are adequately represented. Student Senate meetings are held every Tuesday night at 7 p.m. in Salvi Lecture Hall.
New faculty in English and business departments
By Emily Dee
Cardinal Staff
Saint Mary’s University received new faculty members this semester, and among them were Tim Lacine, lecturer of business, and Christopher Vondracek, visiting instructor of English.
Vondracek, hired in November 2010, received his graduate degree in Literature from the University of South Dakota.
Prior to SMU, Vondracek taught for one year in Rochester, Minn., at the Rochester Community and Technical College’s (RCTC) English department and spent last fall teaching at Normandale Community College in Bloomington, Minn.
This semester, Vondracek will teach Native American Literature, Introduction to Literature and Argumentative Research Writing. In his spare time, Vondracek said he plays in a band, and is working on a novel about it.
“I’m excited,” said Vondracek about his overall first impression of SMU. “I really felt welcome by everyone – by all the faculty.”
Accumulating wealth through creativity and strategy is what Lacine said got him interested in business. The depth of his undergraduate and graduate work is in entrepreneurial studies.
Originally from Chicago, Lacine moved to Rochester, Minn., in 1992. He did schooling in the Twin Cities for a number of years and then relocated back to Rochester. Lacine currently commutes between Rochester and Winona.
Having always wanted to teach, Lacine said he has been teaching business and accounting for five years and has been teaching at the university level since April 2006.
Lacine will teach four classes this semester. “I teach two sections of Corporate Finance, Advanced Accounting and Advanced Entrepreneurship seminar,” said Lacine.
Cardinal Staff
Saint Mary’s University received new faculty members this semester, and among them were Tim Lacine, lecturer of business, and Christopher Vondracek, visiting instructor of English.
Vondracek, hired in November 2010, received his graduate degree in Literature from the University of South Dakota.
Prior to SMU, Vondracek taught for one year in Rochester, Minn., at the Rochester Community and Technical College’s (RCTC) English department and spent last fall teaching at Normandale Community College in Bloomington, Minn.
This semester, Vondracek will teach Native American Literature, Introduction to Literature and Argumentative Research Writing. In his spare time, Vondracek said he plays in a band, and is working on a novel about it.
“I’m excited,” said Vondracek about his overall first impression of SMU. “I really felt welcome by everyone – by all the faculty.”
Accumulating wealth through creativity and strategy is what Lacine said got him interested in business. The depth of his undergraduate and graduate work is in entrepreneurial studies.
Originally from Chicago, Lacine moved to Rochester, Minn., in 1992. He did schooling in the Twin Cities for a number of years and then relocated back to Rochester. Lacine currently commutes between Rochester and Winona.
Having always wanted to teach, Lacine said he has been teaching business and accounting for five years and has been teaching at the university level since April 2006.
Lacine will teach four classes this semester. “I teach two sections of Corporate Finance, Advanced Accounting and Advanced Entrepreneurship seminar,” said Lacine.
'Likealittle' takes campus by storm
By Sarah McDonough
Co-Managing and Advertising Editor
On Oct. 27, 2,040 miles west of Winona at Standford University, news was spreading around campus regarding an alumnus’ new social network website titled “LikeaLittle.com” (LAL).
Evan Reas, a 2009 graduate of Stanford’s Graduate School of Business, is one of the three co-founders in creating LAL, a site that allows users to search for their college campus and see what their fellow classmates are posting, or to go to create a post of their own.
The posts are attempts to anonymously “flirt” with someone on campus, hoping that their crush will see their post and that conversation can take place through feedback on the author’s original post or through the chat box option.
LAL did not truly catch the attention of SMU students until about three weeks ago. Currently there are 209 SMU students “liking” this site via their personal Facebook, but the site can be viewed and posts can be created by anyone – not requiring a log-in or Facebook membership.
“Honestly at first I liked it. It was really funny and interesting in the sense that there was nothing out there similar to ‘LikeaLittle’ so the change in the social network was cool,” said senior Megan Rowland.
When on the SMU LAL page, which is the same type of format featured on all campus pages, students can post the location of where they saw their crush, what they look and pronounce their feelings for them all at once.
Although the number of SMU’s LAL site viewership is increasing, user intentions are unclear. Some seem to spend hours browsing the site to see if perhaps a post is made on their behalf or try to guess who the author of a post is or, better yet, guess who the post is describing. On the site, LAL claims that they want to keep the image of a “positive, complimentary community.”
To help with those efforts, LAL allows users the option to remove a post deemed by the reader as offensive or post containing full names.
Last week, KSMR radio show listeners on Thursday from 5-6 p.m. shared their thoughts on the site. Callers vented about stories of people posing as other students and leaving “gross” comments, as well as commended those that viewed the website as an opportunity to vocalize feelings that they would have been too shy to mention otherwise.
“I understand the concept of the whole thing to flirt with each other but some people are taking it way out of hand. Personally, I think it’s a downgrading site – a way to protect your identity and say whatever it is you want without anyone knowing who is saying it. It gives the student a chance to play a role that they wouldn’t normally play had they not been anonymous,” said Rowland. “The more I looked at the comments, the more I disliked it completely.”
Co-Managing and Advertising Editor
On Oct. 27, 2,040 miles west of Winona at Standford University, news was spreading around campus regarding an alumnus’ new social network website titled “LikeaLittle.com” (LAL).
Evan Reas, a 2009 graduate of Stanford’s Graduate School of Business, is one of the three co-founders in creating LAL, a site that allows users to search for their college campus and see what their fellow classmates are posting, or to go to create a post of their own.
The posts are attempts to anonymously “flirt” with someone on campus, hoping that their crush will see their post and that conversation can take place through feedback on the author’s original post or through the chat box option.
LAL did not truly catch the attention of SMU students until about three weeks ago. Currently there are 209 SMU students “liking” this site via their personal Facebook, but the site can be viewed and posts can be created by anyone – not requiring a log-in or Facebook membership.
“Honestly at first I liked it. It was really funny and interesting in the sense that there was nothing out there similar to ‘LikeaLittle’ so the change in the social network was cool,” said senior Megan Rowland.
When on the SMU LAL page, which is the same type of format featured on all campus pages, students can post the location of where they saw their crush, what they look and pronounce their feelings for them all at once.
Although the number of SMU’s LAL site viewership is increasing, user intentions are unclear. Some seem to spend hours browsing the site to see if perhaps a post is made on their behalf or try to guess who the author of a post is or, better yet, guess who the post is describing. On the site, LAL claims that they want to keep the image of a “positive, complimentary community.”
To help with those efforts, LAL allows users the option to remove a post deemed by the reader as offensive or post containing full names.
Last week, KSMR radio show listeners on Thursday from 5-6 p.m. shared their thoughts on the site. Callers vented about stories of people posing as other students and leaving “gross” comments, as well as commended those that viewed the website as an opportunity to vocalize feelings that they would have been too shy to mention otherwise.
“I understand the concept of the whole thing to flirt with each other but some people are taking it way out of hand. Personally, I think it’s a downgrading site – a way to protect your identity and say whatever it is you want without anyone knowing who is saying it. It gives the student a chance to play a role that they wouldn’t normally play had they not been anonymous,” said Rowland. “The more I looked at the comments, the more I disliked it completely.”
'Celebrate. Give Back' day approaching
By Becca Sandager
News Editor
The Future Alumni Committee (FAC) and the Young Alumni Association at Saint Mary’s University will hold “Celebrate. Give Back” Day on Friday, Feb. 18.
“Celebrate. Give Back” is an event to celebrate the gifts SMU alumni and supporters have made towards the campus and the impact these gifts have made on SMU students, staff and faculty. Throughout the day, there will be facts posted around campus on how alumni have helped SMU. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Michael H. Toner Center for Students and in Saint Mary’s Hall, there will be free Bloedow’s donuts and the chance for students to “give back” by signing a banner showing their appreciation for SMU alumni.
The day will wrap-up with a free concert by “The Freezers,” a cover-band, from 7 – 9 p.m. in the Saint Mary’s Common Room. A door prize will also be offered.
To get involved with FAC, or for more information on alumni relations, contact Sarah McDonough, FAC president, at spmcdo07@smumn.edu.
News Editor
The Future Alumni Committee (FAC) and the Young Alumni Association at Saint Mary’s University will hold “Celebrate. Give Back” Day on Friday, Feb. 18.
“Celebrate. Give Back” is an event to celebrate the gifts SMU alumni and supporters have made towards the campus and the impact these gifts have made on SMU students, staff and faculty. Throughout the day, there will be facts posted around campus on how alumni have helped SMU. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Michael H. Toner Center for Students and in Saint Mary’s Hall, there will be free Bloedow’s donuts and the chance for students to “give back” by signing a banner showing their appreciation for SMU alumni.
The day will wrap-up with a free concert by “The Freezers,” a cover-band, from 7 – 9 p.m. in the Saint Mary’s Common Room. A door prize will also be offered.
To get involved with FAC, or for more information on alumni relations, contact Sarah McDonough, FAC president, at spmcdo07@smumn.edu.
Dance Team to host 1st annual university dance show
By Suzie Roth
Co-Managing and Advertising Editor
Sunday Feb. 27 at 1 p.m., the Saint Mary’s dance team will be holding their first Spring Dance Show.
High school and college dance teams, along with community studios and campus clubs will be showcasing their own routines in the SMU gymnasium, located in the Michael Toner Center for Students.
Captain Abby Ayotte and Allison Johnson encourage having groups attend this fun-filled dance show and encourage requests for more information at either amayot07@smumn.edu or arjohn08@smumn.edu. Registration is free and can be made done e-mail by providing the name of group performing, number of routines to be performed, and song titles.
Co-Managing and Advertising Editor
Sunday Feb. 27 at 1 p.m., the Saint Mary’s dance team will be holding their first Spring Dance Show.
High school and college dance teams, along with community studios and campus clubs will be showcasing their own routines in the SMU gymnasium, located in the Michael Toner Center for Students.
Captain Abby Ayotte and Allison Johnson encourage having groups attend this fun-filled dance show and encourage requests for more information at either amayot07@smumn.edu or arjohn08@smumn.edu. Registration is free and can be made done e-mail by providing the name of group performing, number of routines to be performed, and song titles.
Adventure and art in Florence
By Karol Ibarra
Cardinal Staff
A senior at Saint Mary’s University, Nicole Krystosek, studied with the SAI (Study Abroad Italy) program in Florence, Italy in the spring semester of 2010.
The city and Florence University of Arts seemed like a perfect fit for her, which is what drew Krystosek into the program. The SAI program offered “housing, a cell phone, a meal plan and excursions,” said Krystosek.
“Since I am an art major I took all art classes, with the exception of Italian, and loved all of them,” said Krystosek.
Picking up the language was a little difficult at first, but Krystosek said it shouldn’t stop people from studying abroad.
“The language was something I struggled with. But with the help of my Italian Language Class, I was able to manage. My amazing new friends helped me out with the language.”
While living abroad for the semester, Krystosek said she was living in an apartment next to the Santa Croche, located in the heart of Florence. “My bedroom overlooked the steeple of the church, which was nothing short of amazing,” Krystosek said. “I lived with three girls that I had never met before, who were from different parts of the [U.S.].”
According to Krystosek she enjoyed “every moment of [her] experience abroad,” but she did have some “ups and downs.”
“I struggled with homesickness, roommate issues and negative personalities of others in general, but the downs made the ups more beautiful and prominent,” said Krystosek.
Krystosek has advice for future students considering sharing this experience: “Arrive with an open mind. Take on the new culture as your own. Be adventurous; the random adventures are what make your experience unique.”
Cardinal Staff
A senior at Saint Mary’s University, Nicole Krystosek, studied with the SAI (Study Abroad Italy) program in Florence, Italy in the spring semester of 2010.
The city and Florence University of Arts seemed like a perfect fit for her, which is what drew Krystosek into the program. The SAI program offered “housing, a cell phone, a meal plan and excursions,” said Krystosek.
“Since I am an art major I took all art classes, with the exception of Italian, and loved all of them,” said Krystosek.
Picking up the language was a little difficult at first, but Krystosek said it shouldn’t stop people from studying abroad.
“The language was something I struggled with. But with the help of my Italian Language Class, I was able to manage. My amazing new friends helped me out with the language.”
While living abroad for the semester, Krystosek said she was living in an apartment next to the Santa Croche, located in the heart of Florence. “My bedroom overlooked the steeple of the church, which was nothing short of amazing,” Krystosek said. “I lived with three girls that I had never met before, who were from different parts of the [U.S.].”
According to Krystosek she enjoyed “every moment of [her] experience abroad,” but she did have some “ups and downs.”
“I struggled with homesickness, roommate issues and negative personalities of others in general, but the downs made the ups more beautiful and prominent,” said Krystosek.
Krystosek has advice for future students considering sharing this experience: “Arrive with an open mind. Take on the new culture as your own. Be adventurous; the random adventures are what make your experience unique.”
Señoras and siestas in Spain
y Meg Beerling
Cardinal Staff
Among the variety of choices to study abroad at Saint Mary's University, Spain is one that a few SMU students enjoyed last semester.
Junior Heidi Loeffler studied in Spain last semester. She first found out about the option when she heard other students talking in her Spanish class, which led her to the study abroad office.
The program is based through the Center for Cross Cultural Studies (CCCS), which runs two programs in Spain and one in Argentina, said Loeffler. Loeffler and fellow SMU junior, Valerie Ross both studied in Sevilla, Spain.
Students may choose to live with a host family or to stay in the dorms, said Loeffler. Loeffler decided to stay with a 68-year-old woman that she refers to as her señora.
Loeffler has six years of Spanish speaking skills, however, the language barrier still proved to be an issue at first, she said. Loeffler said the strong accent and the way that the locals pronounce certain words made it difficult to adapt at first.
The classes were another initial obstacle and they were different than classes in the U.S., but they were a great experience and taught a lot of important things about the Spanish culture, said Loeffler.
Loeffler decided to withdraw from SMU for the semester to go on the trip. Her grades from Spain do not directly transfer over because of that; however, the credits are added towards her Spanish major, which she finished while she was in Spain. Loeffler was also able to complete some general education requirements.
Many cultural experiences are different, but one that takes place in Spain is siesta,” said Loeffler. While not everyone participates, “siesta” is a time in the middle of the day where stores close and people come home from work and school to just relax, she said.
“It was the best experience of my life,” said Loeffler of the trip in general. “Immerse yourself into the culture, you’ll get more out of it.”
Cardinal Staff
Among the variety of choices to study abroad at Saint Mary's University, Spain is one that a few SMU students enjoyed last semester.
Junior Heidi Loeffler studied in Spain last semester. She first found out about the option when she heard other students talking in her Spanish class, which led her to the study abroad office.
The program is based through the Center for Cross Cultural Studies (CCCS), which runs two programs in Spain and one in Argentina, said Loeffler. Loeffler and fellow SMU junior, Valerie Ross both studied in Sevilla, Spain.
Students may choose to live with a host family or to stay in the dorms, said Loeffler. Loeffler decided to stay with a 68-year-old woman that she refers to as her señora.
Loeffler has six years of Spanish speaking skills, however, the language barrier still proved to be an issue at first, she said. Loeffler said the strong accent and the way that the locals pronounce certain words made it difficult to adapt at first.
The classes were another initial obstacle and they were different than classes in the U.S., but they were a great experience and taught a lot of important things about the Spanish culture, said Loeffler.
Loeffler decided to withdraw from SMU for the semester to go on the trip. Her grades from Spain do not directly transfer over because of that; however, the credits are added towards her Spanish major, which she finished while she was in Spain. Loeffler was also able to complete some general education requirements.
Many cultural experiences are different, but one that takes place in Spain is siesta,” said Loeffler. While not everyone participates, “siesta” is a time in the middle of the day where stores close and people come home from work and school to just relax, she said.
“It was the best experience of my life,” said Loeffler of the trip in general. “Immerse yourself into the culture, you’ll get more out of it.”
Senior has 'experience of a lifetime' in London, England
By Suzie Roth
Co-Managing and Advertising Editor
The opportunity to study abroad is one that many Saint Mary’s students consider. Senior Marie Allen did more than consider it; she set off on the adventure of a lifetime when she chose to study abroad in London, England in the Fall of 2010.
Although the curriculum of SMU’s London program is geared toward Theatre majors, Allen, majoring in both Political Science and Sociology, stated she was able to meet new people and establish friendships with SMU students that she otherwise may not have formed on campus.
Even though it was difficult for Allen to leave for a semester during her last year of college, she expressed that the experience was definitely worth it, stating the best part of her study abroad experience was “everything.”
“I got out and experienced as much of the city as possible and don’t have any regrets.” Allen said without an ounce of hesitation that she would repeat the experience “in a heartbeat. I think it is definitely an opportunity that everyone should take if they get the chance.”
Despite the fact that on the surface the United States and London may seem to have a lot of similarities, Allen said studying abroad in London still gave her the chance to gain new perspectives and have different experiences. Allen noted that although there were some cultural differences, “it was interesting to observe and participate in another society. London was a place I felt comfortable, and I cannot wait to return.”
Co-Managing and Advertising Editor
The opportunity to study abroad is one that many Saint Mary’s students consider. Senior Marie Allen did more than consider it; she set off on the adventure of a lifetime when she chose to study abroad in London, England in the Fall of 2010.
Although the curriculum of SMU’s London program is geared toward Theatre majors, Allen, majoring in both Political Science and Sociology, stated she was able to meet new people and establish friendships with SMU students that she otherwise may not have formed on campus.
Even though it was difficult for Allen to leave for a semester during her last year of college, she expressed that the experience was definitely worth it, stating the best part of her study abroad experience was “everything.”
“I got out and experienced as much of the city as possible and don’t have any regrets.” Allen said without an ounce of hesitation that she would repeat the experience “in a heartbeat. I think it is definitely an opportunity that everyone should take if they get the chance.”
Despite the fact that on the surface the United States and London may seem to have a lot of similarities, Allen said studying abroad in London still gave her the chance to gain new perspectives and have different experiences. Allen noted that although there were some cultural differences, “it was interesting to observe and participate in another society. London was a place I felt comfortable, and I cannot wait to return.”
Juniors return from Norway and Ireland
By Jenna Capelle
Feature Editor
Two students at Saint Mary’s University had the opportunity to study abroad in Norway and Ireland last semester.
SMU junior, Tina Swanberg is majoring in political science and sociology. For first semester, she enrolled with the HECUA study abroad program at the University of Oslo in Norway. The HECUA program is dedicated to promote social change and political activity, said Swanberg.
Through the program, Swanberg took a field trip to Stockholm and Copenhagen and visited political youth groups in both cities. The students also had the privilege of meeting two political parties after a recent election.
Swanberg learned about the culture of Norway with other international students. Her roommates, known in Europe as “flat mates”, were from all corners of the world, literally. She had two flat mates from Norwegia, one from China and one from Germany. In addition to Norway, Swanberg visited Holland and Portugal with friends.
Studying abroad with the HECUA program is highly recommended by Swanberg. “No matter how much money it costs, it’s the most worthwhile thing you’ll do,” said Swanberg. “They say, ‘just do it’ for a reason.”
Chris Rice is a junior at SMU who studied abroad at the National University of Ireland in Galway, Ireland last semester. He took science classes that transferred over for his major in environmental biology.
Rice decided at the beginning of the semester that he wanted to immerse himself in the Irish culture. He joined the soccer and surf club where he met native Irish friends. Despite the cold water, he loved to surf.
Even more adventurous, Rice and his friends crawled down a crevice of about 1,000 feet on the Aran Islands. They held onto ropes for security and saw sheep bones on the climb down before reaching the ocean.
Not only did he visit the cities of Dublin and Limerick, but also ventured out of Ireland to see England, Italy and Scotland. Rice coordinated with the SMU Spain students, Heidi Loeffler and Valerie Ross, to visit the SMU students studying in London. He enjoyed the “Winona reunion” that occurred in Europe.
Before studying abroad, “Students should research what they want to get out of the trip,” said Rice. “Your semester will be more rewarding if you get involved and meet new people.”
Feature Editor
Two students at Saint Mary’s University had the opportunity to study abroad in Norway and Ireland last semester.
SMU junior, Tina Swanberg is majoring in political science and sociology. For first semester, she enrolled with the HECUA study abroad program at the University of Oslo in Norway. The HECUA program is dedicated to promote social change and political activity, said Swanberg.
Through the program, Swanberg took a field trip to Stockholm and Copenhagen and visited political youth groups in both cities. The students also had the privilege of meeting two political parties after a recent election.
Swanberg learned about the culture of Norway with other international students. Her roommates, known in Europe as “flat mates”, were from all corners of the world, literally. She had two flat mates from Norwegia, one from China and one from Germany. In addition to Norway, Swanberg visited Holland and Portugal with friends.
Studying abroad with the HECUA program is highly recommended by Swanberg. “No matter how much money it costs, it’s the most worthwhile thing you’ll do,” said Swanberg. “They say, ‘just do it’ for a reason.”
Chris Rice is a junior at SMU who studied abroad at the National University of Ireland in Galway, Ireland last semester. He took science classes that transferred over for his major in environmental biology.
Rice decided at the beginning of the semester that he wanted to immerse himself in the Irish culture. He joined the soccer and surf club where he met native Irish friends. Despite the cold water, he loved to surf.
Even more adventurous, Rice and his friends crawled down a crevice of about 1,000 feet on the Aran Islands. They held onto ropes for security and saw sheep bones on the climb down before reaching the ocean.
Not only did he visit the cities of Dublin and Limerick, but also ventured out of Ireland to see England, Italy and Scotland. Rice coordinated with the SMU Spain students, Heidi Loeffler and Valerie Ross, to visit the SMU students studying in London. He enjoyed the “Winona reunion” that occurred in Europe.
Before studying abroad, “Students should research what they want to get out of the trip,” said Rice. “Your semester will be more rewarding if you get involved and meet new people.”
Students encouraged to study abroad
By Shannon Nelson
Cardinal Staff
Many students have heard how important it is to study abroad, but the necessary steps it takes to get there are often not discussed.
Director of Study Abroad, Dr. Philip Hull, said the most important step is to “start early” and to make studying abroad “part of your academic plan.” When starting early, students should talk to both their adviser and Dr. Hull to figure out which classes they will take at Saint Mary’s University and abroad. It’s essential for students to know if their credits will transfer back to SMU.
Next, students must apply to a program. Dr. Hull recommends choosing a program that “suits your interests and academic plan” to get the most out of the experience. Students must submit an application to both the program and to SMU. A GPA requirement of 2.5 is part of a student’s academic history that is checked before studying abroad.
It is also very important to plan ahead financially. Up to $2,000 of SMU scholarships may apply to study abroad and students’ federal and state aid may apply, depending on the chosen program.
However, if a student chooses the SMU London Program, all financial aid and scholarships apply. “Many programs provide in-house scholarships from $500 to $1000,” said Dr. Hull. He also works with students individually to help them find scholarships.
Nationally, 65 percent of students choose a program in France, Great Britain, Spain or Italy, making these four locations the most popular study abroad destinations, said Dr. Hull. SMU’s top destination is England because of the London study abroad program.
Typically, students pursuing a major or minor in a foreign language, theatre, humanities and fine arts study abroad.
Studying abroad provides great experiences on both a personal and academic level. Dr. Hull believes studying abroad helps with “personal development in terms of independence and sensitivity to other cultures.” Studying abroad is also very beneficial in career development.
Only 1.5 percent of college students in the U.S. have study abroad experience, according to Dr. Hull. “It really sets you apart in jobs, and cultural sensitivity and foreign language are valued by employers,” said Dr. Hull.
Dr. Hull encourages students to join the 30 to 40 SMU students who study abroad each year. For more information about studying abroad, visit the Study Abroad Office in Saint Mary’s Hall, Room 136.
Cardinal Staff
Many students have heard how important it is to study abroad, but the necessary steps it takes to get there are often not discussed.
Director of Study Abroad, Dr. Philip Hull, said the most important step is to “start early” and to make studying abroad “part of your academic plan.” When starting early, students should talk to both their adviser and Dr. Hull to figure out which classes they will take at Saint Mary’s University and abroad. It’s essential for students to know if their credits will transfer back to SMU.
Next, students must apply to a program. Dr. Hull recommends choosing a program that “suits your interests and academic plan” to get the most out of the experience. Students must submit an application to both the program and to SMU. A GPA requirement of 2.5 is part of a student’s academic history that is checked before studying abroad.
It is also very important to plan ahead financially. Up to $2,000 of SMU scholarships may apply to study abroad and students’ federal and state aid may apply, depending on the chosen program.
However, if a student chooses the SMU London Program, all financial aid and scholarships apply. “Many programs provide in-house scholarships from $500 to $1000,” said Dr. Hull. He also works with students individually to help them find scholarships.
Nationally, 65 percent of students choose a program in France, Great Britain, Spain or Italy, making these four locations the most popular study abroad destinations, said Dr. Hull. SMU’s top destination is England because of the London study abroad program.
Typically, students pursuing a major or minor in a foreign language, theatre, humanities and fine arts study abroad.
Studying abroad provides great experiences on both a personal and academic level. Dr. Hull believes studying abroad helps with “personal development in terms of independence and sensitivity to other cultures.” Studying abroad is also very beneficial in career development.
Only 1.5 percent of college students in the U.S. have study abroad experience, according to Dr. Hull. “It really sets you apart in jobs, and cultural sensitivity and foreign language are valued by employers,” said Dr. Hull.
Dr. Hull encourages students to join the 30 to 40 SMU students who study abroad each year. For more information about studying abroad, visit the Study Abroad Office in Saint Mary’s Hall, Room 136.
Play shows American history through music
By Trisha Stachowski
Cardinal Staff
On Thursday, March 3 at 6:30 p.m., the Saint Mary’s University Page Theater will host the Pushcart Players play, “Let Freedom Ring: America At the Beginning.”
According to the play’s website, “Let Freedom Ring … celebrates our nation’s birth and development.” Through music, the Pushcart Players move from the first inhabitation of America to the Pilgrims arrival in America in 1620, states the website.
The main characters of the play, Sam, Sarah, Jennie and Ginny experience many of the pivotal moments in America’s past. As stated on the Page Theatre website, these events include, “The Boston Tea Party, The American Revolution, westward expansion, The Underground Railroad, Civil War, California Gold Rush, and Industrialization.”
The Pushcart Players have been hosted by SMU previously. According to the Page Theater General Manager, Patrick Grace, Let Freedom Ring is a “family oriented show, [but] college students will have fun with it because it’s a musical.” Grace stresses the importance of parents and grandparents bringing children to the play as a way to expose them to music and theater.
“Let Freedom Ring” is a different kind of theater, said Grace. It is not lacking quality; it is just a different kind of theater that relies much less on technology. According to Grace, Let Freedom Ring encourages people of all ages to get more creative while also getting an educational experience.
The Page Series has been going on for 24 years, said Grace. Shows like Let Freedom Ring are chosen based off the results the Page Theater receives from SMU students, he said. In addition, Grace looks to his fellow colleagues to help make the decision. Grace stressed the importance of the artists providing educational components, which allows the SMU students and the Winona community to access things they are not otherwise aware of culturally.
Tickets for “Let Freedom Ring: American At the Beginning” can be purchased by phone at 507-457-1715, through www.pagetheatre.org, or at the Performance Center Box Office, located within the Page Theater. The tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for both seniors and students.
Cardinal Staff
On Thursday, March 3 at 6:30 p.m., the Saint Mary’s University Page Theater will host the Pushcart Players play, “Let Freedom Ring: America At the Beginning.”
According to the play’s website, “Let Freedom Ring … celebrates our nation’s birth and development.” Through music, the Pushcart Players move from the first inhabitation of America to the Pilgrims arrival in America in 1620, states the website.
The main characters of the play, Sam, Sarah, Jennie and Ginny experience many of the pivotal moments in America’s past. As stated on the Page Theatre website, these events include, “The Boston Tea Party, The American Revolution, westward expansion, The Underground Railroad, Civil War, California Gold Rush, and Industrialization.”
The Pushcart Players have been hosted by SMU previously. According to the Page Theater General Manager, Patrick Grace, Let Freedom Ring is a “family oriented show, [but] college students will have fun with it because it’s a musical.” Grace stresses the importance of parents and grandparents bringing children to the play as a way to expose them to music and theater.
“Let Freedom Ring” is a different kind of theater, said Grace. It is not lacking quality; it is just a different kind of theater that relies much less on technology. According to Grace, Let Freedom Ring encourages people of all ages to get more creative while also getting an educational experience.
The Page Series has been going on for 24 years, said Grace. Shows like Let Freedom Ring are chosen based off the results the Page Theater receives from SMU students, he said. In addition, Grace looks to his fellow colleagues to help make the decision. Grace stressed the importance of the artists providing educational components, which allows the SMU students and the Winona community to access things they are not otherwise aware of culturally.
Tickets for “Let Freedom Ring: American At the Beginning” can be purchased by phone at 507-457-1715, through www.pagetheatre.org, or at the Performance Center Box Office, located within the Page Theater. The tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for both seniors and students.
'Eye' exhibit on display
By Emma Stenzel
Cardinal Staff
“The Eye Behind the Eye,” featuring selected art by William A. Berry, is on display in the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries at Saint Mary’s University through Feb. 20.
The show is a tribute to the life and work of the internationally known artist whose career spanned nearly 60 years. In 1998, Berry was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, but continued to create works of art until his death at the age of 76 on Jan. 3, 2010.
“There is a chance for people in the community to see art by an artist at a level of international recognition,” said Dr. John Whelan, curator for “The Eye Behind the Eye.” “It’s important that people see that, rather than quitting, he didn’t stop; he channeled his physical limitations into great art.”
The exhibit features artwork arranged in five themes: portraits, self portraits, architectural motifs, figures and still lifes, for which Berry was particularly known, said Whelan.
“‘The Eye Behind the Eye’ shows that the experience behind the artist’s eye is a deeper vision,” said Whelan. “The artist goes beyond the surface appearances and tries to make you see in a unique way.”
Whelan and Valerie Wedel, assistant professor of art at Missouri Valley College, presented at a reception held in the gallery on Friday, Feb. 4 from 5 to 7 p.m.
For more information about the artist and his artwork, visit www.williamaberry.com.
Cardinal Staff
“The Eye Behind the Eye,” featuring selected art by William A. Berry, is on display in the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries at Saint Mary’s University through Feb. 20.
The show is a tribute to the life and work of the internationally known artist whose career spanned nearly 60 years. In 1998, Berry was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, but continued to create works of art until his death at the age of 76 on Jan. 3, 2010.
“There is a chance for people in the community to see art by an artist at a level of international recognition,” said Dr. John Whelan, curator for “The Eye Behind the Eye.” “It’s important that people see that, rather than quitting, he didn’t stop; he channeled his physical limitations into great art.”
The exhibit features artwork arranged in five themes: portraits, self portraits, architectural motifs, figures and still lifes, for which Berry was particularly known, said Whelan.
“‘The Eye Behind the Eye’ shows that the experience behind the artist’s eye is a deeper vision,” said Whelan. “The artist goes beyond the surface appearances and tries to make you see in a unique way.”
Whelan and Valerie Wedel, assistant professor of art at Missouri Valley College, presented at a reception held in the gallery on Friday, Feb. 4 from 5 to 7 p.m.
For more information about the artist and his artwork, visit www.williamaberry.com.
FRFF deemed successful
By Jessica LaCanne
Arts and Entertainment Editor
The Frozen River Film Festival was deemed successful by a member of the planning committee.
Kathy Florin said the festival was successful because it brought “the community to engage with one another, learn from one another, and inspire to physically manifest the reality they hold in their ideals.”
There were more people in attendance this year, said Florin, with around 4,000 seats filled, compared to the 3,000 last year.
Films that were the most successful won awards. The film “Wasteland” won the Jury Award and “A Good Day To Die” won the People’s Choice Award.
For Florin, “Wasteland” was her favorite. The film was well done and emotionally touching, keeping audience members engaged and intrigued, said Florin. It was also artsy and creative, a wonderful story, she said.
Arts and Entertainment Editor
The Frozen River Film Festival was deemed successful by a member of the planning committee.
Kathy Florin said the festival was successful because it brought “the community to engage with one another, learn from one another, and inspire to physically manifest the reality they hold in their ideals.”
There were more people in attendance this year, said Florin, with around 4,000 seats filled, compared to the 3,000 last year.
Films that were the most successful won awards. The film “Wasteland” won the Jury Award and “A Good Day To Die” won the People’s Choice Award.
For Florin, “Wasteland” was her favorite. The film was well done and emotionally touching, keeping audience members engaged and intrigued, said Florin. It was also artsy and creative, a wonderful story, she said.
Film Review: 'Sons of Perdition'
By Jessica LaCanne
Arts and Entertainment Editor
Imagine having your whole life controlled by a prophet who made decisions about how you were to get closer to God. This was the reality for three young teenagers in Colorado Springs whose parents practiced polygamy.
The film “Sons of Perdition” opens with teenage boys sneaking into their own house in order to grab their stuff. After being exiled from the Crick community, this is the only contact option left for these teens.
The film follows the three teens while they try to find a place in the world outside of what they know. Sam, one of the teens, said his family would rather have him dead than exiled. That is how serious it is to run away for the families featured in the film.
Joe, another one of the teens who left the Crick, said his home was sheltered, and children were taught to think only about the next life. Children were forbidden from dating, watching television, and reading books. They were even removed from schools. The children were taught that they were chosen by God to be in the religion that was designed to wipe evil off the earth.
Throughout the film, the voice of the prophet, Warren Jeffs, was frequently heard preaching to his people. One message from the prophet was that polygamy is the way and those who deny it will be destroyed.
The role of the prophet is to reveal what God has told him abut the lives of the people who are following him. It is up to the prophet to decide who marries who and how many wives a man gets. Some men have been known to have 70 wives.
This eye-opening film brings the viewers into the lives of struggling teens who have managed to break away from the ruling of the prophet and their struggles to make it with no support from their families. “Sons of Perdition” is a must see for an inner look at the lives of struggling teenagers who are trying to break away from the prophet and polygamy.
Arts and Entertainment Editor
Imagine having your whole life controlled by a prophet who made decisions about how you were to get closer to God. This was the reality for three young teenagers in Colorado Springs whose parents practiced polygamy.
The film “Sons of Perdition” opens with teenage boys sneaking into their own house in order to grab their stuff. After being exiled from the Crick community, this is the only contact option left for these teens.
The film follows the three teens while they try to find a place in the world outside of what they know. Sam, one of the teens, said his family would rather have him dead than exiled. That is how serious it is to run away for the families featured in the film.
Joe, another one of the teens who left the Crick, said his home was sheltered, and children were taught to think only about the next life. Children were forbidden from dating, watching television, and reading books. They were even removed from schools. The children were taught that they were chosen by God to be in the religion that was designed to wipe evil off the earth.
Throughout the film, the voice of the prophet, Warren Jeffs, was frequently heard preaching to his people. One message from the prophet was that polygamy is the way and those who deny it will be destroyed.
The role of the prophet is to reveal what God has told him abut the lives of the people who are following him. It is up to the prophet to decide who marries who and how many wives a man gets. Some men have been known to have 70 wives.
This eye-opening film brings the viewers into the lives of struggling teens who have managed to break away from the ruling of the prophet and their struggles to make it with no support from their families. “Sons of Perdition” is a must see for an inner look at the lives of struggling teenagers who are trying to break away from the prophet and polygamy.
Miller reaches 1,000 points
By Sarah McDonough
Co-Managing and Advertising Editor
For the past four years, the name “Jess Miller” has been a familiar one around Saint Mary’s University. Since her freshman year, she has started in every Woman’s Basketball game she has played, in those games often achieving lead-scorer status among her teammates. But this veteran Cardinal was not expecting what her senior year had in store for her – achieving the 1,000-point milestone of her Saint Mary’s career.
The day was Wednesday, Jan. 12, and the Cardinals were facing MIAC conference team, St. Catherine University. For the previous few weeks, Miller reaching 1,000 points had been the point of conversation for local and MIAC reporters as well as the SMU community including staff, faculty and fellow classmates.
“I was asked all the time, ‘How many points do you have left?’ I was scared and wanted to get it over with. [I] definitely felt a little pressure,” said Miller.
Miller said that with the fear of not reaching the golden number or getting injured in the back of her mind she turned to the advice of her family, teammates and coaching staff. Their overall consensus: dedication naturally rewards itself – a trait Miller said she had been taught since a young age.
“When I was younger my parents ran me around everywhere. Besides for my normal school basketball schedule, I was also involved with a traveling basketball team. It was pretty much all year round and my parents were there, at every game – even throughout college. Their dedication made me want to be more dedicated.”
Despite this, Miller said she did not expect her hard work to pay off so soon.
“I wasn’t even keeping track of what points I needed (at the St. Catherine game), I was focused on working with the team to win the game,” said Miller, “I honestly thought I needed more than (21), so I wasn't really worried about it, and then the closer it got, people kept feeding me the ball.”
The team won the game 76-57, making the experience of achieving 1,000 career points only that much sweeter, said Miller.
“Our next game was in the Twin Cities and my whole family, including my grandparents, aunts and uncles were there. They were all so excited and proud of me,” said Miller.
“Every game I am always so thankful for the support of my family and those that come to the games to cheer our team on.”
Miller looks forward to graduation in May as both an opportunity to see what possible elementary teaching jobs might be available and to give herself a break on keeping up with a basketball regimen.
“A break will be nice because I haven’t known life without it, but I know I would never give it up completely because I would miss it too much,” said Miller.
Co-Managing and Advertising Editor
For the past four years, the name “Jess Miller” has been a familiar one around Saint Mary’s University. Since her freshman year, she has started in every Woman’s Basketball game she has played, in those games often achieving lead-scorer status among her teammates. But this veteran Cardinal was not expecting what her senior year had in store for her – achieving the 1,000-point milestone of her Saint Mary’s career.
The day was Wednesday, Jan. 12, and the Cardinals were facing MIAC conference team, St. Catherine University. For the previous few weeks, Miller reaching 1,000 points had been the point of conversation for local and MIAC reporters as well as the SMU community including staff, faculty and fellow classmates.
“I was asked all the time, ‘How many points do you have left?’ I was scared and wanted to get it over with. [I] definitely felt a little pressure,” said Miller.
Miller said that with the fear of not reaching the golden number or getting injured in the back of her mind she turned to the advice of her family, teammates and coaching staff. Their overall consensus: dedication naturally rewards itself – a trait Miller said she had been taught since a young age.
“When I was younger my parents ran me around everywhere. Besides for my normal school basketball schedule, I was also involved with a traveling basketball team. It was pretty much all year round and my parents were there, at every game – even throughout college. Their dedication made me want to be more dedicated.”
Despite this, Miller said she did not expect her hard work to pay off so soon.
“I wasn’t even keeping track of what points I needed (at the St. Catherine game), I was focused on working with the team to win the game,” said Miller, “I honestly thought I needed more than (21), so I wasn't really worried about it, and then the closer it got, people kept feeding me the ball.”
The team won the game 76-57, making the experience of achieving 1,000 career points only that much sweeter, said Miller.
“Our next game was in the Twin Cities and my whole family, including my grandparents, aunts and uncles were there. They were all so excited and proud of me,” said Miller.
“Every game I am always so thankful for the support of my family and those that come to the games to cheer our team on.”
Miller looks forward to graduation in May as both an opportunity to see what possible elementary teaching jobs might be available and to give herself a break on keeping up with a basketball regimen.
“A break will be nice because I haven’t known life without it, but I know I would never give it up completely because I would miss it too much,” said Miller.
Brueggen going for gold
By Nick Bravos
Cardinal Staff
Senior and All-American track and field thrower Andrew Brueggen has his sights set high this year, looking to be a national champion — and he is already off to a successful start.
He already qualified for the indoor national track and field tournament after the first meet of this season. He finished fourth in the tournament last March, where he earned the All-American title tossing the weight throw. Brueggen also hopes to improve from last year’s thirteenth place outdoor national performance in the hammer and to finally become an All-American in that event as well.
Brueggen didn’t always have throwing on his mind when he first attended University of Wisconsin – La Crosse. He played Lacrosse and tuba in the marching band, but was eventually persuaded to try track and field by his best friend.
“If you were to have told me when I was a freshman that I was going to be a fourth-place All-American in the weight throw — or for that matter, that I would be good at anything that had to do with track — I would have thought you were crazy,” Brueggen said.
He felt his calling change when he enrolled in St. Thomas’ seminary program in Spring 2009. It was at St. Thomas that Brueggen made his first appearance at outdoor nationals and was one placement away from All-American status.
Things then changed again for Brueggen after he met his now-fiancée after only one month at St. Thomas. The next semester he transferred to Saint Mary’s University to be a part of the youth ministry program along with his track and field pursuits.
After last year’s outdoor performance, Brueggen implemented a new summer workout plan with his training coach, Phil Whitesitt. They “decided that although weighing 250 pounds was good for the weight throw, I sacrificed a lot of speed that was needed while throwing the hammer,” Brueggen said.
After a summer of eating healthier and working out five days a week, Brueggen lost 25 pounds. His coach had him running hills and British circuits.
“Now I am faster and stronger than ever, and I feel great. All I could think about all summer and even now was that I have a chance to be the national champion next year, and I wasn't going to let anyone outwork me,” Brueggen said.
In addition to a rigorous summer workout plan, Brueggen added a visualization side of his training. He listens to hypnotist Frederick Winters’ sports improvement track and meets with coach Whitesitt for visualization sessions.
“Believe it or not,” Brueggen says, “throwing is 99.9 percent mental and only 0.1 percent spinning in circles. Throwing the weight/hammer is different than any other sport because it lasts only for around 2 seconds.”
After having transferred to a handful of schools in the past four years, Brueggen is glad to finally call SMU his home.
“I love the atmosphere here but most importantly I love my coaches and my teammates. Without them and their support, I wouldn't be where I am today. I can say it has been the best two years of my life,” said Brueggen.
Cardinal Staff
Senior and All-American track and field thrower Andrew Brueggen has his sights set high this year, looking to be a national champion — and he is already off to a successful start.
He already qualified for the indoor national track and field tournament after the first meet of this season. He finished fourth in the tournament last March, where he earned the All-American title tossing the weight throw. Brueggen also hopes to improve from last year’s thirteenth place outdoor national performance in the hammer and to finally become an All-American in that event as well.
Brueggen didn’t always have throwing on his mind when he first attended University of Wisconsin – La Crosse. He played Lacrosse and tuba in the marching band, but was eventually persuaded to try track and field by his best friend.
“If you were to have told me when I was a freshman that I was going to be a fourth-place All-American in the weight throw — or for that matter, that I would be good at anything that had to do with track — I would have thought you were crazy,” Brueggen said.
He felt his calling change when he enrolled in St. Thomas’ seminary program in Spring 2009. It was at St. Thomas that Brueggen made his first appearance at outdoor nationals and was one placement away from All-American status.
Things then changed again for Brueggen after he met his now-fiancée after only one month at St. Thomas. The next semester he transferred to Saint Mary’s University to be a part of the youth ministry program along with his track and field pursuits.
After last year’s outdoor performance, Brueggen implemented a new summer workout plan with his training coach, Phil Whitesitt. They “decided that although weighing 250 pounds was good for the weight throw, I sacrificed a lot of speed that was needed while throwing the hammer,” Brueggen said.
After a summer of eating healthier and working out five days a week, Brueggen lost 25 pounds. His coach had him running hills and British circuits.
“Now I am faster and stronger than ever, and I feel great. All I could think about all summer and even now was that I have a chance to be the national champion next year, and I wasn't going to let anyone outwork me,” Brueggen said.
In addition to a rigorous summer workout plan, Brueggen added a visualization side of his training. He listens to hypnotist Frederick Winters’ sports improvement track and meets with coach Whitesitt for visualization sessions.
“Believe it or not,” Brueggen says, “throwing is 99.9 percent mental and only 0.1 percent spinning in circles. Throwing the weight/hammer is different than any other sport because it lasts only for around 2 seconds.”
After having transferred to a handful of schools in the past four years, Brueggen is glad to finally call SMU his home.
“I love the atmosphere here but most importantly I love my coaches and my teammates. Without them and their support, I wouldn't be where I am today. I can say it has been the best two years of my life,” said Brueggen.
Boot hockey tradition lives on
By Alex Conover
Sports Editor
When the snow hits hard, they shovel it off and start playing. When the sun goes down, the lights turn on and they keep playing.
It seems like nothing can stop some SMU students from playing boot hockey at an off-campus park behind the pedestrian bridge; in fact, the game has been played for over 20 years.
“My dad, Tom, used to play with his friends all the time,” said Danny Stark. His father attended Saint Mary’s in the early 1980’s. “We made a rink and started carrying on the tradition.”
Stark and his friends play boot hockey up to five times a week. Some are former skaters, some aren’t.
“It’s fun to get out on the ice again,” said Pat Suchla, a former high school hockey player. “Scoring goals is still fun, no matter what sort of net you’re shooting on.”
Kodiak chewing tobacco tins are scattered across the sidelines. A keg of Keystone Light is often plopped in a nearby snow bank. When the day’s games are done, the keg is hauled back to the “Boot Hockey House,” and the party continues.
Despite the lack of skates, injuries do occur. Charlie Williams suffered a laceration below his eye during his first game of the year; it required a trip to the emergency room and resulted in stitches.
“It was worth it,” said Williams. “I’m just glad the stick didn’t hit me in the eye.”
A streetlight was added to their playing surface this year; the players wonder if the city had noticed their affinity for that particular park. Games often stretch well into the night.
“As soon as the first snow hits and the temperature is cold enough, we are pouring water out on the basketball court, getting ready for a new season,” said Stark. “I’m just hoping that our season can stretch into March. We really do love this game.”
Sports Editor
When the snow hits hard, they shovel it off and start playing. When the sun goes down, the lights turn on and they keep playing.
It seems like nothing can stop some SMU students from playing boot hockey at an off-campus park behind the pedestrian bridge; in fact, the game has been played for over 20 years.
“My dad, Tom, used to play with his friends all the time,” said Danny Stark. His father attended Saint Mary’s in the early 1980’s. “We made a rink and started carrying on the tradition.”
Stark and his friends play boot hockey up to five times a week. Some are former skaters, some aren’t.
“It’s fun to get out on the ice again,” said Pat Suchla, a former high school hockey player. “Scoring goals is still fun, no matter what sort of net you’re shooting on.”
Kodiak chewing tobacco tins are scattered across the sidelines. A keg of Keystone Light is often plopped in a nearby snow bank. When the day’s games are done, the keg is hauled back to the “Boot Hockey House,” and the party continues.
Despite the lack of skates, injuries do occur. Charlie Williams suffered a laceration below his eye during his first game of the year; it required a trip to the emergency room and resulted in stitches.
“It was worth it,” said Williams. “I’m just glad the stick didn’t hit me in the eye.”
A streetlight was added to their playing surface this year; the players wonder if the city had noticed their affinity for that particular park. Games often stretch well into the night.
“As soon as the first snow hits and the temperature is cold enough, we are pouring water out on the basketball court, getting ready for a new season,” said Stark. “I’m just hoping that our season can stretch into March. We really do love this game.”
Cardinals receive award for service
By Julianne Bartosz
Cardinal Staff
Across Saint Mary’s University campus, over 320 student-athletes can be found striving for excellence every day of the week in their sport or in the classroom.
But when the time comes for them to take off their jerseys, they are often found stepping out of their own bounds and into the community. Instead of sticking to the sports that they know best, the Cardinals have started a winning tradition by completing different volunteer and service projects throughout the year.
Volunteering in the community has become a nationally recognized characteristic of the Cardinals twice in the past three years.
The National Association of Division III Athletics Administration (NADIIIAA), recently awarded SMU with honorable mention for community service projects for the previous academic year. The Cardinals earned this honor through activities like raising money for charitable organizations, volunteering in the Winona community and helping peers across campus.
Although this honor was for last year’s volunteering, the Cardinals continue to help the community through events like “Give Back Weekend,” which includes the volleyball team’s second “Dig Pink Night” for breast cancer awareness, the men’s soccer “Cardinals Kick Cancer” for the Children’s Hospital and the women’s soccer “Footin’ 4 Food” drive for Winona’s food pantry. Also, the men’s hockey team started a new tradition this year with its first “Toys for Tots’ Teddy Bear Toss.”
Aside from incorporating a good cause with their game days, the Cardinals have also spent some free time volunteering this year. Cardinal athletic teams volunteered during SMU’s annual “Make a Difference Day.”
During the third year of this event, the women’s hockey team assisted Habitat for Humanity, the men’s hockey team volunteered at a local elementary school and the softball team helped with the Big Brothers and Big Sisters organization.
Some Cardinals are already planning ahead for upcoming service opportunities. On March 18, SMU will be hosting a Relay for Life event. Enthusiastic to help fight cancer, the Cardinals’ volleyball team and women’s hockey team are already signed up to participate.
According to Athletic Director Nikki Fennern, the Cardinals put in all of this extra time and effort to simply make a difference, rather than for recognition.
“Yes, the student-athletes give their time; but I think they are getting a lot out of it as well. Our student-athletes are leaders in many ways on campus. And when you take a group of student-athletes who are a bunch of motivated people anyway, then they see a need or a cause that they are very interested in. They tend to be motivated to pick up their volunteer activities and do those things as well,” said Fennern.
Cardinal Staff
Across Saint Mary’s University campus, over 320 student-athletes can be found striving for excellence every day of the week in their sport or in the classroom.
But when the time comes for them to take off their jerseys, they are often found stepping out of their own bounds and into the community. Instead of sticking to the sports that they know best, the Cardinals have started a winning tradition by completing different volunteer and service projects throughout the year.
Volunteering in the community has become a nationally recognized characteristic of the Cardinals twice in the past three years.
The National Association of Division III Athletics Administration (NADIIIAA), recently awarded SMU with honorable mention for community service projects for the previous academic year. The Cardinals earned this honor through activities like raising money for charitable organizations, volunteering in the Winona community and helping peers across campus.
Although this honor was for last year’s volunteering, the Cardinals continue to help the community through events like “Give Back Weekend,” which includes the volleyball team’s second “Dig Pink Night” for breast cancer awareness, the men’s soccer “Cardinals Kick Cancer” for the Children’s Hospital and the women’s soccer “Footin’ 4 Food” drive for Winona’s food pantry. Also, the men’s hockey team started a new tradition this year with its first “Toys for Tots’ Teddy Bear Toss.”
Aside from incorporating a good cause with their game days, the Cardinals have also spent some free time volunteering this year. Cardinal athletic teams volunteered during SMU’s annual “Make a Difference Day.”
During the third year of this event, the women’s hockey team assisted Habitat for Humanity, the men’s hockey team volunteered at a local elementary school and the softball team helped with the Big Brothers and Big Sisters organization.
Some Cardinals are already planning ahead for upcoming service opportunities. On March 18, SMU will be hosting a Relay for Life event. Enthusiastic to help fight cancer, the Cardinals’ volleyball team and women’s hockey team are already signed up to participate.
According to Athletic Director Nikki Fennern, the Cardinals put in all of this extra time and effort to simply make a difference, rather than for recognition.
“Yes, the student-athletes give their time; but I think they are getting a lot out of it as well. Our student-athletes are leaders in many ways on campus. And when you take a group of student-athletes who are a bunch of motivated people anyway, then they see a need or a cause that they are very interested in. They tend to be motivated to pick up their volunteer activities and do those things as well,” said Fennern.
Alex's Column: Packer fanbase is unrivaled
By Alex Conover
Sports Editor
This column isn’t about the Super Bowl; by the time this paper is printed, the winner will already have been long decided.
The Packers may win or lose, but one thing will remain the same: the Packers fanbase will remain one of the best such groups among all of sports.
I get a few chances a year to visit family in northeastern Wisconsin, and it’s always crystal clear when I enter Packer territory. There’s green and gold on company signs, lawn gnomes, cars, garages, and pretty much anything else you can think of. Babies are wearing Packer jumpers, and a hard loss can set a whole town’s attitude back for a while (at least until the next Sunday).
You see, for this area of the country, the Packers are the only show in town. Green Bay is one of the only cities in all of sports to host only one professional franchise. If you’ve never been there, please consider adding it to your sports vacation wish list.
I attended a game this year in late December. While the Vikings struggled all year in their dome that eventually collapsed, we embraced the cool elements and enjoyed watching the Packers dominate the Giants in full winter garb. Instead of clapping, you hear a thunderous wave of “poofs” — from all of the snowmobile gloves slapping together.
And sure, the Packers have been a consistently good team over the last 20 years. But what I think marks a true fanbase is dedication even through tough times. In the 24 seasons from 1968 to 1991, the Packers only had five winning seasons. Each coach they hired was worse than the last, and they kept making bad draft picks. But the fans stuck through the hard times and were rewarded in the mid-1990s with two Super Bowl appearances and a championship. The Packers have sold out every game since 1960, and the waiting list for season tickets has over 78,000 names.
People love the Packers because the team is engrained in their state culture. They are the only team in all of professional sports to be owned by the fans; instead of letting a greedy billionaire call the shots, the stock is instead owned by community members.
There are plenty of other good fans for other teams across the country. But I truly feel that the Green Bay faithful are uniquely dedicated, and they will always cheer for the Packers through thick and thin.
Sports Editor
This column isn’t about the Super Bowl; by the time this paper is printed, the winner will already have been long decided.
The Packers may win or lose, but one thing will remain the same: the Packers fanbase will remain one of the best such groups among all of sports.
I get a few chances a year to visit family in northeastern Wisconsin, and it’s always crystal clear when I enter Packer territory. There’s green and gold on company signs, lawn gnomes, cars, garages, and pretty much anything else you can think of. Babies are wearing Packer jumpers, and a hard loss can set a whole town’s attitude back for a while (at least until the next Sunday).
You see, for this area of the country, the Packers are the only show in town. Green Bay is one of the only cities in all of sports to host only one professional franchise. If you’ve never been there, please consider adding it to your sports vacation wish list.
I attended a game this year in late December. While the Vikings struggled all year in their dome that eventually collapsed, we embraced the cool elements and enjoyed watching the Packers dominate the Giants in full winter garb. Instead of clapping, you hear a thunderous wave of “poofs” — from all of the snowmobile gloves slapping together.
And sure, the Packers have been a consistently good team over the last 20 years. But what I think marks a true fanbase is dedication even through tough times. In the 24 seasons from 1968 to 1991, the Packers only had five winning seasons. Each coach they hired was worse than the last, and they kept making bad draft picks. But the fans stuck through the hard times and were rewarded in the mid-1990s with two Super Bowl appearances and a championship. The Packers have sold out every game since 1960, and the waiting list for season tickets has over 78,000 names.
People love the Packers because the team is engrained in their state culture. They are the only team in all of professional sports to be owned by the fans; instead of letting a greedy billionaire call the shots, the stock is instead owned by community members.
There are plenty of other good fans for other teams across the country. But I truly feel that the Green Bay faithful are uniquely dedicated, and they will always cheer for the Packers through thick and thin.
Inside game day: Minnesota Timberwolves
By Santiago J. Escobar
Cardinal Staff
Most people would see a team like the Minnesota Timberwolves as just a professional basketball team — a team that happens to be significantly below .500, and seems to be constantly rebuilding. The truth is that there is much more than just an owner, a coach, and players; a lot occurs at the Target Center before the doors open to the public. Much goes into the planning of an event that seems simple in the eyes of the fans in attendance or watching at home, but there are plenty of behind-the-scenes activities.
Starting around noon, there are youth basketball games going on until around 4:30 p.m. This is part of the team’s community relations, allowing children to play in the same court they see their favorite players. Soon after, players start coming into the court to do quick drills and warm-ups. During this time, special acts as well as the cheer team practice routines for the game. While this is happening in the court, special guests start arriving around 5 p.m. These guests are usually officials from other teams and season ticket holders for both the Timberwolves, and the visiting team. They have the chance to walk around the arena at this time and also get a tour of the entire facility during halftime. The tour for special guests includes the team offices, the media room, the Timberwolves locker room, the medical room, and the press room. Some guests also enjoy entrance to “The Cave,” which is a bar. All these amenities and special treatments make any fan feel welcomed and wanted.
By 5:58 p.m., there is an announcement for everyone to take their places as the doors are about to open to the public. At 6 o’clock sharp the arena’s doors open for the fans, and an hour later the environment was completely changed from the sound of a few people talking and basketball sneakers on the floor to music, sound effects, and a roaring loyal fan base which all leads into an exciting game and great experience — no matter the final score. Even if a team has a losing record, the atmosphere created by the efforts of those behind the scenes working in media, services and management can make the event something memorable, and give fans the feeling that they are appreciated and that without them the team could not go on.
Cardinal Staff
Most people would see a team like the Minnesota Timberwolves as just a professional basketball team — a team that happens to be significantly below .500, and seems to be constantly rebuilding. The truth is that there is much more than just an owner, a coach, and players; a lot occurs at the Target Center before the doors open to the public. Much goes into the planning of an event that seems simple in the eyes of the fans in attendance or watching at home, but there are plenty of behind-the-scenes activities.
Starting around noon, there are youth basketball games going on until around 4:30 p.m. This is part of the team’s community relations, allowing children to play in the same court they see their favorite players. Soon after, players start coming into the court to do quick drills and warm-ups. During this time, special acts as well as the cheer team practice routines for the game. While this is happening in the court, special guests start arriving around 5 p.m. These guests are usually officials from other teams and season ticket holders for both the Timberwolves, and the visiting team. They have the chance to walk around the arena at this time and also get a tour of the entire facility during halftime. The tour for special guests includes the team offices, the media room, the Timberwolves locker room, the medical room, and the press room. Some guests also enjoy entrance to “The Cave,” which is a bar. All these amenities and special treatments make any fan feel welcomed and wanted.
By 5:58 p.m., there is an announcement for everyone to take their places as the doors are about to open to the public. At 6 o’clock sharp the arena’s doors open for the fans, and an hour later the environment was completely changed from the sound of a few people talking and basketball sneakers on the floor to music, sound effects, and a roaring loyal fan base which all leads into an exciting game and great experience — no matter the final score. Even if a team has a losing record, the atmosphere created by the efforts of those behind the scenes working in media, services and management can make the event something memorable, and give fans the feeling that they are appreciated and that without them the team could not go on.
A senior's state of mind
By Suzie Roth
Co-Managing and Advertising Editor
Being in college is more than parties, freedom from your parents, learning about new rules, and perhaps, the best ways to get around them. At some point, we all learn we have to answer to someone. Sometimes it is your parents or professors, other times it is your friends or the police, and for many perhaps a higher being. I have found however, that learning to answer to yourself can not only be the hardest, but can also be the most rewarding.
I hope I don’t burst any bubbles here, but no matter how hard you try, you will never be able to make enough time to be in every activity, go to every party, ace every test or be perfect at everything you try. Trying to do so, will not only lead to a life of sleep deprivation, but also a sense of defeat. All you can do is your best, choose your priorities, and let those be your guide.
Perhaps you won’t believe me, maybe you already know, but the professors that spend their days lecturing us about science, math, business and so much more, do so because they want to make sure we have the tools to be successful after we leave SMU, just as much as they want us to be successful in the classes that they teach.
Throughout my time at SMU, some of my professors have seen my best work, others perhaps my worst, but having to come to terms with the fact that even with all the privileges I have been blessed with, I cannot do better has to be the hardest.
This guilt doesn’t have to make you weak; rather it can serve as an opportunity for self-reflection. Admitting that relative to your life, you have challenges to overcome allows you to begin to accept yourself, and opens your eyes to your problems in perspective to others.
Being in college is more than an opportunity to earn a degree. Being an undergrad at Saint Mary’s has been a gift that has not only prepared me for life after graduation, but taught me how to succeed at being me, as I try to figure the rest of this crazy life out in the process. Everyone’s college experience is different. So own yours and make it what you want it to be, but don’t forget to thank those who helped you along the way.
I may just be a senior with the hope of graduation in her sights, but the sooner you learn to take a look in the mirror and truly examine the person who looks back at you, that is the point when your true priorities surface.
Co-Managing and Advertising Editor
Being in college is more than parties, freedom from your parents, learning about new rules, and perhaps, the best ways to get around them. At some point, we all learn we have to answer to someone. Sometimes it is your parents or professors, other times it is your friends or the police, and for many perhaps a higher being. I have found however, that learning to answer to yourself can not only be the hardest, but can also be the most rewarding.
I hope I don’t burst any bubbles here, but no matter how hard you try, you will never be able to make enough time to be in every activity, go to every party, ace every test or be perfect at everything you try. Trying to do so, will not only lead to a life of sleep deprivation, but also a sense of defeat. All you can do is your best, choose your priorities, and let those be your guide.
Perhaps you won’t believe me, maybe you already know, but the professors that spend their days lecturing us about science, math, business and so much more, do so because they want to make sure we have the tools to be successful after we leave SMU, just as much as they want us to be successful in the classes that they teach.
Throughout my time at SMU, some of my professors have seen my best work, others perhaps my worst, but having to come to terms with the fact that even with all the privileges I have been blessed with, I cannot do better has to be the hardest.
This guilt doesn’t have to make you weak; rather it can serve as an opportunity for self-reflection. Admitting that relative to your life, you have challenges to overcome allows you to begin to accept yourself, and opens your eyes to your problems in perspective to others.
Being in college is more than an opportunity to earn a degree. Being an undergrad at Saint Mary’s has been a gift that has not only prepared me for life after graduation, but taught me how to succeed at being me, as I try to figure the rest of this crazy life out in the process. Everyone’s college experience is different. So own yours and make it what you want it to be, but don’t forget to thank those who helped you along the way.
I may just be a senior with the hope of graduation in her sights, but the sooner you learn to take a look in the mirror and truly examine the person who looks back at you, that is the point when your true priorities surface.
Friday, December 10, 2010
News
Professor speaks on concussions at Mayo Clinic
By Jake Schild
News Editor
A Saint Mary’s University psychology professor impressed many neurological doctors and scientists with a speech at the Mayo Clinic proposing a new way to better diagnose and learn more about cognitive impairments caused by concussions.
Professor Jeff Amundson’s presentation on the “Eyeblink Conditioning Paradigm,” showcased a new way to figure out what kind of effects concussions can have on high-contact sports athletes. It works very much like Pavlov’s experiment with the dog and salivation.
Dr. Amundson resigns
By Lauren Rothering
Editor on Chief
Over Thanksgiving break, Dr. Jeff Amundson, assistant professor of psychology, resigned suddenly.
"Dr. Amundson resigned his position to pursue other opportunities and we wish him well," said Dr. Marilyn Frost, vice president for academic affairs.
According to Frost, Amundson's current classes have been taken over by other psychology department faculty, who have "worked to develop a completion plan that is clear and fair for students."
Bethlehem student shares story of detainment
By Karol Ibarra
Cardinal Staff
On Dec. 1, A student from Bethlehem University in Israel shared her story with the Saint Mary’s University community about the struggle she had to overcome in order to finish her degree, with aim to inspire and raise awareness about the current situation in Israel and Palestine.
The speaker, Berlanty Azza, is a young Palestinian woman from the Gaza strip, who had been attending Bethlehem University in the West Bank. In October 2009, just two months away from finishing her bachelor’s degree at Bethlehem, Azzam was forcibly transferred to Gaza by the Israeli military. According to Azzam, she was detained and forcibly transferred was because her identification card was from Gaza. This is because, as a Palestinian from the Gaza Strip, she is not allowed into Israel, which is where Bethlehem is located.
Counselor warns against alcohol abuse
By Alexa Wallick
Cardinal Staff
Students need to be aware of alcohol trends on the Saint Mary’s University campus in order to help prevent alcohol abuse, said Jason Flanders, chemical dependency counselor, in a speech to psychology classes on Nov. 10.
Feature: Giving and Giving Back
Habitat for Humanity to work in Manistique
By Emma Stenzel
Cardinal Staff
Students of Saint Mary’s University’s chapter of Habitat for Humanity will be working in Manistique, Mich., during the last week of Christmas recess from Jan. 9-15.
Maddie Kettner, Habitat for Humanity executive board member, said that 19 SMU students and their faculty advisor, Lance Thompson, will help remodel and build the HiawathaLand Habitat for Humanity Volunteer Center. Once completed, the center will house families who hope to volunteer in the Manistique area, said Kettner.
Santa, what's the perfect gift?
By Emilie Olsen
Cardinal Staff
Christmas is just around the corner and there is one thing on everyone’s mind: what is the perfect gift? Whether it’s for parents, roommates or yourself, almost everyone is searching for gift ideas this season.
So what’s on your list this year?
Relay for Life kick-off
By Meg Beerling
Cardinal Staff
This year, SMU’s Relay For Life started Tuesday Dec. 7 with a kick-off fundraising event, where participants made various holiday items for cancer patients at the Hope Lodge treatment center.
All proceeds from Relay For Life fundraising events are given to the Hope Lodge, said Kristina Empenger, co-president of SMU’s Relay For Life committee.
Gifts for Winona spreads holiday cheer
By Rebekah Hoeger
Cardinal Staff
With Christmas approaching quickly, students at Saint Mary’s University are studying diligently to finish the semester while parents are preparing for their kids to come home. Some families, though, are more worried about finding affordable presents for their loved ones to enjoy.
Arts and Entertainment
Eisenhower Dance Ensemble to perform
By Emily Dee
Cardinal Staff
The Eisenhower Dance Ensemble (EDE) will be performing at Saint Mary’s University next semester, according to Laurie Eisenhower, founder and artistic director of the company.
EDE, named after Eisenhower, was founded in 1991 in the metropolitan area of Detroit, Mich. Currently, Eisenhower said the company’s home base is in Rochester, Mich.
Student art exhibition opens
By Jessica LaCanne
Arts and Entertainment Editor
The opening reception for the Saint Mary’s University Undergraduate Art Exhibition revealed Ashley Blum’s first place assemblage piece, titled “Honey Is the Milk of Life.”
Blum, winning $100 for first place, was not the only person to be recognized at the show. Stephanie Binot won second place and $75 for her untitled watercolor piece. Rachel Sievers won third place and $50 for her photograph titled “Autumn 360.”
Blum, a junior at SMU majoring in graphic design and studio art, said she initially was trying to make a full body cast, but it didn’t work. Blum then decided her cast, made of paper towel and wheat paste, looked more like a beehive.
More than music at Open Mic Night
By Alexa Wallick
Cardinal Staff
Pat Howard kept the crowd bent over in laughter with his impressive stand-up performance at Saint Mary’s University “Open Mic Night” on Nov. 18.
“I love being up there,” Howard said, “I really love to make people laugh. It’s one of my favorite things to do.” Howard has performed his comedy routine four times since April 2010. Even though he started performing just recently, he plans on doing more comedy performances in the future.
Choir prepares for 'Lessons and Carols'
By Trisha StachowskiCardinal Staff
The Saint Mary’s University annual choir performance, “Lessons and Carols,” will be held on Saturday, Dec. 11 at 7:30 p.m. at the Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels.
Sports
Live video added to athletics website
By Nick Bravos
Cardinal Staff
This semester, the Cardinal athletics website added The Fan Zone, an opportunity for fans to view their favorite SMU teams over a live video stream.
This new feature currently includes volleyball, basketball and hockey games. Outdoor sports are being considered for video capabilities, but still remain as radio play-by-play commentary.
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