Universitas - Issue 41.1 (Spring 2015)

Spring 2015 issue of Universitas: the magazine of Saint Louis University. This is the first issue of a newly designed format, and a special issue on University President Fred P. Pestello.

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Universitas - Issue 41.1 (Spring 2015)
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description Spring 2015 issue of Universitas: the magazine of Saint Louis University. This is the first issue of a newly designed format, and a special issue on University President Fred P. Pestello.
publisher Saint Louis University Libraries Digitization Center
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spelling sluoai_alumni-461 Universitas - Issue 41.1 (Spring 2015) Universitas: the magazine of Saint Louis University St. Louis University St. Louis University -- Periodicals; Universities and colleges -- Missouri -- Saint Louis -- Periodicals; Pestello, Fred P., 1952- Spring 2015 issue of Universitas: the magazine of Saint Louis University. This is the first issue of a newly designed format, and a special issue on University President Fred P. Pestello. 2015-04 2015-04 PDF universitas_spring2015 2010 special LD4817 .S52 U5 Copyright Saint Louis University. All rights reserved. Saint Louis University Libraries Digitization Center text eng Saint Louis University Marketing and Communications s p r i n g 2 0 1 5 Meet SLU’s President: Dr. Fred P. Pestello Page 10 inaugural adress Page 19 Midtown Growth Page 24 F e at u r e s 10 Meet the President Learn more about SLU’s 33rd president, Dr. Fred P. Pestello. — By Laura Geiser 19 Higher Purpose. Greater Good. The full text of University President Dr. Fred P. Pestello’s inaugural address. 24 The New Midtown Anchored by the University, the neighborhood is experiencing tremendous growth. — By Sara Hendrixson D e partme n ts 2 On Campus New housing | Strategic planning | Belize partnership | Fulbrights and grants | New rankings and honors | Go Further campaign update | Billiken Hall of Fame 28 Class Notes 30 How I Got Here Tom J. O’Toole Jr. (A&S ’79, Law ’86) 33 Alumni Spotlight Sarah Huck (A&S ’00) 36 In Memoriam 39 Alumni Events 40 Feedback 41 The Last Look table of Contents editor’s Message Volume 41 , Issue 1 Editor Laura Geiser (A&S ’90, Grad ’92) Associate Editor Amy Garland (A&S ’97) art director Matt Krob contributors Gemma Groch Sara Hendrixson On Campus news stories University Communications Medical Center Communications Billiken Media Relations ON THE Cover SLU President Dr. Fred Pestello Photo by Jay Fram Universitas is published by Saint Louis University. Opinions expressed in Universitas are those of the individual authors and not necessarily those of the University administration. Unsolicited manuscripts and photographs are welcome but will be returned only if accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Letters to the editor must be signed, and letters not intended for publication should indicate that fact. The editor reserves the right to edit all items. Address all mail to Universitas, DuBourg Hall 39, 1 N. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63103. We accept email at universitas@slu.edu . Postmaster: Send address changes to Universitas, Saint Louis University, 1 N. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63103. Website: universitas.slu.edu Universitas is printed by Universal Printing Co. Worldwide circulation: 112,500 © 2015, Saint Louis University All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. UNIVERSITAS Because University President Dr. Fred Pestello shares his thoughts in a Q&A that begins on page 10 of this issue, I’m taking this opportu-nity to share an editor’s message about our 2014 readership survey. A president’s message will be back in this space in our next issue. Welcome to the much delayed, newly designed Universitas. Thanks for your patience as we worked to get this issue into your hands. Last summer we conducted a readership survey via email and the web to get your opin-ion about what you’d like to see in your alumni magazine. More than 2,700 of you responded. We asked lots of questions — from what you typically read in each issue to the types of sto-ries you prefer to what you think of the name of the magazine. We took your feedback to heart with this redesign, and inside you’ll notice: > A new, modern look that emphasizes photography. > New recurring items that focus on nostalgia and alumni achievements. > An expanded news section up front to bring you even more updates about what’s happening on campus. And we heard you loud and clear about possibly renaming the magazine; if you haven’t already noticed, it’s still called Universitas. (Roughly three-quarters of you said we should not even consider changing it.) You’ll also note that this issue arrived in your mailbox, not your email inbox. While some of you were fine with reading the magazine online, about 86 percent of you still prefer a printed version. We were happy to learn that almost two-thirds of you read “all” or “most” of every issue. In addition, you overwhelmingly told us that Universitas reminds you of your days at SLU. And in this recycled world, almost half of you told us that you’ve saved an issue for future reference. Plus, overall, we were thrilled to find out that nearly 90 percent of you deemed the content “very good” or “good.” Those responses were affirming, for sure, but they don’t give us permission to stagnate. You demand a lot of the magazine chronicling the life of your alma mater, and we intend to deliver with even more stories focused on the things that matter to you — campus growth, Jesuit values and, most of all, people. One person we’re highlighting in this issue is Saint Louis University’s new president, Dr. Fred P. Pestello. Planned as a get-to-know-the-president story, the in-depth interview became an opportunity for Pestello to share his take on the demonstration that took place on campus in October. Of course, Pestello also discusses other top-ics, including what drew him to SLU, his views on Jesuit education and his plans for the future. Until you have the opportunity to meet him in person, I hope this article will give you a sense of the man behind the title. This issue also features a story about the University’s burgeoning Midtown neigh-borhood, which is home to an innovation district called Cortex and soon will include the only Missouri outlet of Swedish retailer Ikea. If you haven’t been back to campus in some time, you’ll read that now there are even more rea-sons to visit SLU. Again, thanks for bearing with us as we prepared this issue. And please know the readership survey isn’t the only way to share your opin-ions. We want to hear from you. Send us your thoughts, letters, class notes and address changes. You can email us at uni-versitas@ slu.edu, or visit universitas.slu.edu to share information online. Of course, you can always write to us at: Universitas Saint Louis University 1 N. Grand Blvd., Room 39 St. Louis, MO 63103 Thanks for reading. Laura Geiser Editor University President Dr. Fred P. Pestello in his office photo by jay fram 2 universitas spr ing 2015 www.slu.edu 3 Construction is underway on a $43.8 million new residence hall — the f irst of several potential projects to enhance cam-pus housing. The eight-story, 153,000-square-foot facility is being built on existing green space at Laclede and Spring avenues behind Fusz Hall. Designed for first- and second-year students, the new hall will feature suite-style rooms with 450 beds. Classrooms, meeting and study spaces, lounges, a living room with kitchen, a chapel and a small out-door amphitheater are in the plans. The project is slated to be completed by July 2016. Pending future board of trust-ees approval, SLU plans to build a second new residence hall on the parking lot behind the Griesedieck Complex. The complex, which includes Wal sh and Clemens Halls, would also undergo major renovations. The housing plan also calls for the conversion of SLU’s Water Tower Inn, located in Salus Center — the former Incarnate Word Hospital — at Grand Boulevard and Interstate 44, into housing for graduate stu-dents by August 2016. SLU Plans New and Improved Housing Strategic Planning Process Underway In August, SLU President Dr. Fred P. Pestello convened a group of University leaders to launch a comprehensive strategic planning effort. Pestello committed to an open process to accomplish three broad objec-tives by May: 1 Charting SLU’s direction in a complicated higher education environment 2 Identifying priorities for a SLU bicentennial comprehensive capital campaign 3 Bringing the University together in the process of developing and supporting the plan During a meeting of the strategic planning assembly in October, Dr. James Kimmey, strategic planning coordinator, and Dr. Joe Weixlmann and Dr. Kent Porterfield, strategic planning co-chairs, shared the results of 12 infor-mational sessions, which elicited hundreds of ideas for SLU’s future. Recently, more than 350 faculty, staff and students completed an interest survey for consideration to participate in eight topical work groups. Topics range from examining the way the University promotes academic excellence to SLU’s role in the region and around the world. For more information, visit the strategic planning process website at slu.edu/strategicplan. Heads of the topical working groups meet to discuss the next phase of the strategic planning committee. A rendering of the residence hall under construction at Laclede and Spring avenues. Clark’s Bar once sat at the same corner. Partnering with Belize University representatives trav-eled to Belize in May 2014 as part of the SLU-Belize Initiative, an effort to explore a sus-tained relationship with the nation and its people. During that trip, the University began a partnership with St. Martin de Porres, a Jesuit parish and school of 700 students in Belize City, and met with several organizations to explore ways to address systemic issues of edu-cational and social injustice. In August, SLU hosted the Belize Summit at the Center for Global Citizenship. Administrators of St. Martin and other Belizean officials met with city and SLU representatives to discuss critical issues facing Belize today and how to facilitate long-term partnerships. For more information about the ini-tiative, email Chris Collins, S.J. (Grad A&S ’01), director of the SLU Catholic studies program, at ccolli11@slu.edu. Blood Clotting and Heart Disease $1.53 million Dr. Alireza Rezaie, professor of biochemistry and molecular biology, will investigate how blood-clotting enzymes elicit signaling responses in cells lining blood vessels to regulate inflammation and coagulation. The aim is to find better treatments for heart disease and systemic inflammatory disorders like sepsis. The grant is from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health. Military Physicians and Pediatric ER Cases $541,807 Dr. James Gerard (A&S ’87, Med ’91), an associate professor of pediatrics at SLU, received a grant from the Department of Defense Office of Naval Research to work with a Baltimore-based company to develop a video game that will train military physicians on pediatric emergency room cases. Multiple Sclerosis $608,376 Dr. Daniel Hawiger, assistant professor of molecular microbiology and immunology, will use a grant from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society to gain a better understanding of how the autoimmune process that causes multiple sclerosis may be stopped or slowed down. Regional Climate Change and Missouri Agriculture $20 million A grant from the National Science Foundation will allow a consortium of Missouri universities and research institutions to study how climate change is likely to affect agriculture in the state. Dr. Tim Eichler, assistant professor of earth and atmospheric sciences, is the principal investigator at SLU. The consortium will fund researchers from all four University of Missouri campuses, as well as at the Donald Danforth Plant Sciences Center, Washington University, Lincoln University and the St. Louis Science Center. Research Grants University Names Four New Deans Since last summer, Saint Louis University has filled four deanships. Dr. Christopher Duncan College of Arts and Sciences Duncan will join the University July 1. He has been provost and professor of political science at Wittenberg University since 2011. His academic appointment will reside in SLU’s department of political science. Duncan received his doctorate from Wayne State University. Dr. Beth Freeburg School for Professional Studies Before coming to SLU last summer, Freeburg was the director of the Center for Workforce Development at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. She also was a professor in SIU’s department of workforce education and development. Freeburg received her doctorate from SIU. Dr. Mark Higgins John Cook School of Business Before coming to SLU in January, Higgins was on faculty at the University of Rhode Island since 1988 and had been dean of the business college there since 2006. He earned his doctorate from the University of Tennessee and is also a CPA. Prior to joining the University of Rhode Island, he was a tax manager for Ernst and Young in New York City. Dr. Mardell Wilson Edward and Margaret Doisy College of Health Sciences Before coming to SLU last summer, Wilson was associate vice president for academic fiscal management at Illinois State University, as well as a professor of food, nutrition and dietetics in the department of family and consumer science. She received her doctorate from ISU. on campus photo by Danielle Lacey 4 universitas spr ing 2015 www.slu.edu 5 Awards & Honors Fulbrights Four recent alumni were offered 2014-15 Fulbright U.S. Student Awards. Three recipients received Fulbright English teaching assistantships: Alex Abbate (A&S ’14), Emily Shoemaker (Cook ’12) and Annabelle Wilmott (A&S ’14). Michael Meyer (A&S ’14) received a Fulbright study/research grant. Three faculty members were selected for the 2014-15 Fulbright Program: Dr. T. Christine Stevens, professor emeritus of mathematics and computer science, who retired last summer, is a Fulbright Senior Scholar in Spain. Her project, “Character Groups, Duality and Weakened Lie Groups,” deals with measuring distances on mathematical objects. Dr. Georgia Johnston, professor of English, is in London, researching and writing a new book, Gender as Textuality: A Modernist Methodology. Dr. Nathaniel Millett, associate history professor, is working on archival research for his book project, Afro-Indian Relations in the Anglo-Atlantic World, ca. 1550-1815. Abbate shoemaker wilmott meyer Dr. Nathaniel Millett also received the 2014 Alpha Sigma Nu Book Award. His book, The Maroons of Prospect Bluff and Their Quest for Freedom in the Atlantic World, was one of four selected in “The Humanities” category. Dr. Norma Metheny (Grad ’79), the Dorothy A. Votsmier Endowed Chair in Nursing, was inducted into the 2014 International Nurse Researcher Hall of Fame by the honor society of nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International, for her lifesaving feeding tube research. Dr. Kent Porterfield, vice president for student development, is the 75th president of the American College Personnel Association, one of the largest U.S. student affairs associations. Morgan Elliott, a senior biomedical engineering major, was a 2014 Goldwater Scholar. The program fosters outstanding college students to pursue research careers in mathematics, natural sciences and engineering; fewer than 300 were named for 2014. Alumnus Kevin F. O’Malley (A&S ’70, Law ’73) became the 31st ambassador to Ireland in September. O’Malley taught trial advocacy as an adjunct professor at SLU’s School of Law from 1979- 85. He most recently served as an officer at the law firm Greensfelder, Hemker and Gale in St. Louis. New Divisions Announced Ref lecting the University’s commitment to enhancing its development and marketing efforts, SLU President Dr. Fred Pestello has divided the former advancement division into two distinct divisions: marketing and communications, and development. Jef f Fowler, who led the advancement division for five years, is now vice president for marketing and communi-cations. Community relations also reports to him. Sheila Manion is the interim vice president for develop-ment. She was SLU’s associate vice president for development for nearly four years. Manion’s fundraising and campaign experience includes leading the campaign for the Saint Louis Art Museum expansion. The offices of alumni relations and event services also report to her. Conran is New Board Chairman Joseph (“Joe”) Conran (A&S ’67, Law ’70) was elected chairman of the board of trustees at the board’s December meeting, at which time J. Joseph Adorjan became chairman emeritus. Patrick Sly continues to serve as vice chairman. Conran, a trustee since 2012, is a partner in the St. Louis law firm Husch Blackwell. Before entering private practice, he was a captain in the U.S. Air Force. He is also on the School of Law’s dean’s advi-sory board and is a longtime supporter of Billiken athletics. fowler manion conran 2014 Commencements: A crowd of more than 6,000 celebrated the Class of 2014 during May commencement at Chaifetz Arena. The University conferred nearly 2,400 degrees. Commencement speaker Judge Jimmie Edwards (A&S ’78, Law ’81), circuit judge for the 22nd Judicial Circuit Court in the State of Missouri, encouraged graduates to use their education to serve humanity and strive for a greater good. Edwards and four others received honorary doctorates during the ceremony: Peggy Ritter (Doisy ’61), St. Louis philanthropist; David Steward, founder of World Wide Technology Inc., and his wife, Thelma; and Joseph Tetlow, S.J., spiritual leader, former SLU professor and homilist at the 2014 Baccalaureate Mass. In December, the University celebrated its newest alumni — nearly 600 graduates — during the 2014 midyear commencement in Chaifetz Arena. Michael McMillan (A&S ’97), president and CEO of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, served as the commencement speaker. photo by Steve dolan In the publication’s “Best Colleges 2015” guidebook, SLU was ranked No. 99 among the country’s 267 national universities on a list topped by Princeton, Harvard and Yale. The ranking places SLU among the top-five Jesuit institutions on the national universities list. SLU’s John Cook School of Business was ranked No. 79 among the nation’s leading undergraduate business programs. The school is home to a number of the country’s top-rated specialties as well, including entrepreneurship, international business and supply chain management. In a new category for this year, U.S. News ranked SLU No. 20 among national universities on a list of “Best Colleges for Veterans.” U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges 2015” The Princeton Review “379 Best Colleges List” Forbes’ “America’s Best Colleges” Rising Star Philosophical Gourmet Report academic Rankings In addition to making the 2015 “379 Best Colleges List,” SLU also made The Princeton Review’s list of the best colleges and universities in the Midwest. Only about 15 percent of America’s 2,500 four-year colleges are profiled in The Best 379 Colleges: 2015 Edition, which is the review’s flagship college guide. In addition, The Princeton Review ranked SLU’s entrepreneurship program No. 23 in the United States. In “Rising Stars: 10 Top Colleges to Watch,” an article in Forbes’ “America’s Best Colleges” issue, the magazine highlighted the schools that have climbed the most since the rankings began in 2009. Forbes said SLU has a winning formula of high student satisfaction and graduation rates, alumni career success and low student debt. Overall, SLU was ranked No. 191 out of 650 colleges and universities in the country, up from 524 five years ago. In addition, SLU ranked in the top 20 percent on Forbes’ list of students with the lowest average debt load. SLU has the No. 1 medieval philosophy doctoral program in the English-speaking world, according to the 2014 Philosophical Gourmet Report. The University is tied with Notre Dame and ahead of such prestigious universities as Cambridge and Oxford. SLU was rated highly in three other categories: epistemology, the philosophy of action and the philosophy of religion. Graduate programs in philosophy ranked No. 47 overall, with only two other Catholic institutions — Notre Dame and Georgetown — ahead of SLU on the list. Homecoming: Thousands of students, alumni and family members celebrated on campus during the 2014 Homecoming and Family Weekend in September. This year’s festivities included the Golden Billiken reunion for the class of 1964, the annual golf cart parade and fireworks during halftime of the men’s soccer game. New to this year’s celebration was a meet-and-greet reception with SLU President Dr. Fred P. Pestello. photos by Steve dolan on campus May 2014 Commencement 6 universitas spr ing 2015 www.slu.edu 7 The University was listed on Washington Monthly’s list of national universities as the fourth-best school in the country for community service. This marks the fourth consecutive year SLU has placed in the top five. The Washington, D.C., magazine ranks schools based on their contribution to the public good in three broad categories: social mobility, research and service. Washington Monthly “Best Schools for Community Service” President’s Community Service Honor Roll Te a ch For America’s “Top Contributing Schools” Kiplinger’s “Best Values in Private Colleges” The Princeton Review’s Guide to 332 Green Colleges: 2014 Edition Carnegie Foundation service etc. Rankings For the seventh consecutive year, SLU has been named to the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll, the highest federal recognition a school can achieve for its commitment to service-learning and community engagement. SLU is the only campus in Missouri named to the honor roll with distinction in the area of interfaith service. Saint Louis University made its debut on Teach For America’s seventh annual list of colleges and universities contributing the most alumni to this year’s teaching corps. SLU made the top 20 list for medium-sized colleges and universities, contributing 17 alumni to the most diverse teaching group in the organization’s 25-year history. SLU was named one of Kiplinger’s “Best Values in Private Colleges” for 2015. The list includes the top 300 private colleges in the country. Kiplinger’s assesses academic quality based on the admission rate, test scores of incoming freshmen, the ratio of students to faculty members, and graduation rates. On the cost side, Kiplinger’s measures sticker price, availability and average amount of financial aid, and average student debt at graduation. The University was named a “Green College” by the guide that profiles institutions that demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability in their programming and operations. The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching awarded SLU its 2015 Community Engagement Classification. Nationwide, only 361 institutions hold the classification, which recognizes institutions’ commitment to engaging with local, national and global communities. 1,605 students from 42 U.S. states and more than 20 countries Retirements Three top administrators have announced that they are retiring from Saint Louis University this year. Dr. Ellen Harshman Interim Vice President for Academic Affai r s After 43 years at SLU, Harshman (Grad ’78, Law ’92) will retire June 30. A member of the management faculty, she became interim vice president for academic affairs in 2013. Previously, she served as dean of the John Cook School of Business, senior vice provost, interim CIO, assistant and associate dean in the business school, and she held several positions in student development. The recipient of numerous teaching awards, Harshman was recognized by the St. Louis Business Journal in 2004 as one of the area’s “Most Influential Business Women” and also was frequently included on its “Most Influential Leaders” list. Paul Stark, S.J. Vice President for Mission and Min i stry Vice president for mission and ministry since 2011, Stark has fostered SLU’s Catholic, Jesuit identity, mission and values. He has helped develop several new initiatives, including the SLU Student Emergency Relief Fund and the Faith and Justice Collaborative. Stark is recognized for encouraging interfaith dialogue, receiving a Norman Stack Community Relations Award in 2014 from the Jewish Community Relations Council. During his SLU career, Stark also served as vice president for student development and assistant vice president for alumni relations. He will retire June 30. Kathleen Brady Vice President for Facilities Services Brady (A&S ’76) has been in her position since 1995 and has overseen many significant building projects at SLU, including Chaifetz Arena and the Edward A. Doisy Research Center. Under her leadership, the University has been recognized as one of the most attractive urban campuses in the country. In addition, Brady has been a strong advocate for campus sustainability and served as the University’s chief sustainability officer since 2011. She retired at the end of March. DEVELOPMENT NEWS Go Further Campaign Funds $8.2 Million in Scholarships Launched in July 2013, Go Further: The Scholarship Matching Program for Saint Louis University aims to enable high-caliber undergraduates to attend SLU by funding 3,500 additional need- and merit-based scholarships. The University matches all qualified scholarship gifts of $100 or more — dollar for dollar. During the campaign’s first year, the University received $4.1 million in scholarship gifts, surpassing its $3 million goal and raising a total of $8.2 million for scholarships. Donations to endowed scholarships increased by 158 percent, donations to all scholarship funds increased by 35 percent, and the total number of donors who gave to scholarship funds increased by 39 percent. The Go Further Program is ongoing, with more than $1.1 million raised this fiscal year. For more information, visit giving.slu.edu/gofurther. Banpu Endowed Chair of Sustainability Named The Center for Sustainability named Dr. Thomas Crawford the inaugural Banpu Endowed Chair of Sustainability. Crawford came to SLU from East Carolina University and brought a background in sustain-ability that encompasses academics, research and global issues. His dissertation focused on human-environment interactions and regional change in rural north-east Thailand. The Banpu Chair of Sustainability was created with a gift from Thailand-based Banpu Public Co. and its two founding executives, Chanin Vongkusolkit (Grad Cook ’77) and Metee Auapinyakul (Cook ’78). The two met while they were students at the John Cook School of Business. Their interests in energy, sustainability and business led to the founding of Banpu in 1983. The company is a leader in global energy known in Asia for its commitment to sustainability and improv-ing the community. Dance the night away: During its annual 12-hour event in November, the SLU Dance Marathon raised more than $221,000 for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals of Greater St. Louis. Pitctured, from left, are sophomores Hannah Russell, Bridie Murphy, Natalie Russell and Julia Clare. photo by caitlyn mcneil By the Num be rs: Class of 2018 The University’s fall 2014 census revealed that the freshman class is the most academically accomplished in SLU’s nearly 200-year history. Here is the Class of 2018, by the numbers. freshmen are “legacies” (the children, grandchildren and siblings of SLU graduates), while more than 200 are the first members of their families to go to college. 309 average high school GPA of freshmen are from outside the St. Louis area 75% 3.81 27.6 average ACT score 1,605 students from 42 U.S. states and ... ... 20 countries on campus crawford 8 universitas spr ing 2015 www.slu.edu 9 ARTS AT SLU SLU Theatre The Saint Louis University Theatre 2014-15 season is underway. As You Like It by William Shakesp ea re April 24, 25 and May 1, 2, 3 One of Shakespeare’s most beloved romantic comedies, the tale of Rosalind and Orlando is a classic love story. Performances are at 8 p.m., except for Sunday performances at 2 p.m., at Xavier Theatre. MOCRA Vast Bhutan Images from the Phenomenal World Through May 10 Regina DeLuise’s photos look at the ordinary surroundings of Bhutan’s culture, where devotion is found in every aspect of life. SLUMA Visionaries Selections from the 20th Century Print and Photography Permanent Collection through June 28 Masterpieces by more than 40 of the most famous 20th century icons — including Picasso, Chagall and Warhol — illustrate the development of the major art movements from 1950 to today. “Taktsang Palphug Monastery (“Tiger’s Nest”), Bhutan,” Regina DeLuise “Picture With a Black Arch,” Wassily Kandinsky Make a Difference Day: In October, 4,038 students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents and community members took part in SLU’s 17th annual day of service. With more than 170 teams traveling to 160 sites, this year’s event was the largest in University history. TIAA-CREF was the primary financial sponsor for the event. photo by Steve dolan Billiken Great – Pioneer Student-athlete prior to 1980 Jack Gilsinn (Men’s Soccer, 1963-65) was a backline defender on the 1963 and 1965 national championship teams. In Gilsinn’s career, opponents were held to 0.76 goals per game. Billiken Great – Contemporary Student-athlete 1980 to present John DiRaimondo (Men’s Soccer, 2003-06) is in the all-time top 20 for points scored with 72 and is sixth in SLU history with 28 career assists. He is the only Billiken to be named Academic All-America twice and was named the Atlantic 10’s Male Student-Athlete of the Year in 2005. Courtney Hulcer- Sweetin (Women’s Soccer, 2003-06) is a two-time Soccer Buzz All-American and a three-time Conference Defensive Player of the Year. She is first all-time in career assists (37), game-winning assists (21), games played (86) and games started (85). Kevin Lisch (Men’s Basketball, 2005-09) is the sixth-leading scorer in SLU history (1,687 career points) and a recent selection to the men’s basketball All- Century team. Lisch is a two-time All-Defensive team selection, three-time All-Conference selection and a 2008-09 Academic All-American. Theresa Lisch- Meacham (Women’s Basketball, 2006-09) holds school records for career free throws made (406) and free throw percentage (.869); single-season points (574); and points in a game (37). Lisch was the 2008-09 Atlantic 10 Scholar-Athlete of the Year. Sammi McCloud (Volleyball, 2006-09) ranks fifth all-time in kills with 1,418 and eighth in aces with 119. McCloud is the first Billiken to earn AVCA All-America accolades (third team, 2008). She is a two-time All-American and a two-time A-10 Player of the Year. Dave Sever (Baseball, 2006-09), a pitcher, is second all-time in career wins (22) and strikeouts (269) and 12th all-time in ERA (4.14). Sever was drafted twice — in 2008 in the 21st round by the Dodgers (did not sign) and in 2009 in the 16th round by the Blue Jays. Distinguished Alumni Jim Kavanaugh (Cook ’86), who played soccer for the Billikens in the 1980s, is CEO and co-founder of World Wide Technology in St. Louis. He also is a member of the SLU board of trustees. Thomas J. O’Toole Jr. (A&S ’79, Law ’86) is president of the U.S. Golf Association. He has served as a rules official at more than 135 USGA championships. He also is founder and president of the Metropolitan Golf Association. (See page 30 for more details.) Charlie Vogt (A&S ’86) is president and CEO of Imagine Communications and serves on the board of directors at Gates Air. Baumann Sportsmanship Award Tom Gunn (A&S ’65, Law ’67) is president of the Gunn Group, a St. Louis marketing firm, and a former member of the SLU board of trustees. Robert R. Hermann Sr. is president of Hermann Companies. The Hermann Trophy, awarded annually to the nation’s men’s and women’s college soccer top collegiate student-athlete, is named in his honor. Bob Burnes Award The 1960 Men’s Soccer Team won the NCAA national championship, giving SLU back-to-back national titles in the first two years of NCAA men’s soccer. The team, led by coach Bob Guelker, finished the season 14-1, defeating Maryland 3-2 in the Athletic Honors: Baseball Pitcher James Norwood was drafted by the Chicago Cubs with the 199th pick (seventh round) of the 2014 Major League Baseball First Year Player Draft last June. Shortstop Alec Solé was drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays in the 18th round (547 overall). Soccer Saint Louis University had four selections in the 2015 Major League Soccer SuperDraft, tying with North Carolina for most in the country. Kingsley Bryce was selected by the Chicago Fire in the second round of the SuperDraft. He was the seventh pick in round two, the 28th overall selection. During rounds three and four, three other former Billikens made the cut: Anthony Manning by the Portland Timbers (10th pick of the third round); Robert Kristo by the Columbus Crew (13th pick of the third round); and Raymond Lee by the Philadelphia Union (ninth pick of the fourth round). Kristo, a three-time All-America striker, would have been one of the top draft picks but recently came to terms with Spezia Calcio in Italy’s Serie B. “The SLU program has a long history of developing players for the next level, and we are excited to be able to continue that tradition,” SLU head coach Mike McGinty said. Chris May, SLU’s director of athletics, was named one of 28 winners of the 2014 Under Armour AD of the Year Award, according to the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics. Norwood solé bryce manning kristo lee The department of athletics inducted 12 individuals and two teams into the Billiken Hall of Fame in January. The inductees represent five categories: national final. Team members are: Gerry Balassi, Pat Griffard, Tom Hennessy, John Klein Sr., Tom Klein, Robert Malone, Thomas McDonnell, John Michalski, Bill Mueller, Ed Oswald, Don Range, Tom Richmond, Michael Shanahan Sr., Tony Tieber, Bob Trigg, Kim Tucci, Dick Werley, John Winecoff and Tom Barry. Coaching staff: Guelker, Ed Quigley and Mike Quinn. The 2006 Volleyball Team was the first SLU volleyball team to reach the NCAA tournament. The Billikens, led by head coach Anne Kordes, won the A-10 regular-season and tournament titles, finishing the season with a 22-9 record. Team members are: Whitney Behrens, Lauren Christman, Sarah Entzeroth, Bridget Fonke, Elyse Groh, Whitney Roth, Sutton Lasater, Sammi McCloud, Tatyana Menshikova, Jessica Poorbaugh, Angela Powers, Mo Shortal, Sally Warning and Chrissy King. Coaching staff: Kordes, Betsy Spicer and Corey Arbini. 2015 Billiken Hall of Fame Class Announced on campus Billiken Hall of Fame inductees with Director of Athletics Chris May (far right). photos courtesy of Saint Louis University Athletics photos courtesy of Saint Louis University Athletics 10 universitas spr ing 2015 www.slu.edu 11 When he took of f ice on July 1 as Saint Louis University’s 33rd president — and the first perma-nent lay leader in University history — Dr. Fred P. Pestello expected that he would spend the first few months of his historic tenure getting to know the people, places and programs that make SLU one of the nation’s leading Jesuit research institutions. What he couldn’t have expected, much less planned for, was facing the defining moment of his 30-year career. But in the overnight hours of Oct. 13 — when hundreds of demon-strators and SLU students flooded onto campus and headed straight toward SLU’s iconic clock tower — that’s just what Pestello faced. Most of the demonstrators and students left peacefully in a few hours, but a few dozen did not. The weeklong encamp-ment that ensued not only divided some members of the SLU community — especially alumni and parents — but it also tested the University’s long-standing resolve to be a mis-sion- driven organization. Now with Universitas, Pestello shares the decision-making that led to the encampment’s peaceful conclusion. In the wide-ranging interview that follows, Pestello also discusses his first impressions of Saint Louis University, his aspirations for the University’s future and his commitment to moving SLU forward at a time when U.S. higher education is facing myriad challenges. A candid conversation with SLU’s new president, Dr. Fred P. Pestello. Meet the President — BY LAURA GEISER Pestello at new student convocation at Chaifetz Arena in August photo by Steve dolan photo by jay fram 12 universitas spr ing 2015 www.slu.edu 13 First Impressions What did you know about Saint Louis University before seeking the presidency? FP: For some time I have known of SLU as a major Catholic, Jesuit univer-sity. I started paying close attention to SLU at the time I became provost at the University of Dayton. Dayton’s enrollment management division reported to me, and the St. Louis area has a large number of Catholic high schools and was a big market for us. So we were paying attention to SLU as a competitor, as an aspirant school in some ways and as a large Catholic university located in a city that was a primary recruiting market. What was your impression of SLU other than as a competitor? FP: SLU is among the very top Jesuit research universities. I knew that it had strong undergraduate programs, as well as a broad range of highly ranked graduate and professional programs. Although I’d not been on campus prior to the search process, I also knew it had a reputation for having beautiful grounds. So, I was aware of its size and success, as well as its location within the city of St. Louis and its importance to the region. From the first call from the presidential search consultant, I was intrigued and excited, thinking about the possibility of becoming SLU’s next president. We had several conversations over a period of weeks before I formally applied. As I became increasingly interested, I started to dig deeper and read more about SLU. The more I saw, the more taken I became with the power and promise of the organization. You are SLU’s first lay president. What impact does that have on SLU? In what ways might it be an advantage? FP: An institution is advantaged if it has a Jesuit in the presidency due to the depth of formation any Jesuit would undergo, but I also believe that an advantage a layperson has is that he or she can hold up and celebrate the Jesuits in a way that would be difficult for a Jesuit to do. There are ways that I can praise the men of the order and our Catholic, Jesuit nature with a pride that might not be as easy for a vowed member of the order. I’m Jesuit educated. This approach to education had a tremendous impact on my life. I believe deeply in Jesuit education — a rigorous, values-based education that stresses excellence and reason while simul-taneously embracing faith. We commit ourselves, individually and collectively, to making the world a better place for all. I love our brand promise, “Higher purpose. Greater good.” It is our call-ing — our way of life. I made it the title of my inaugural address and ended with it. Those four words sum SLU up nicely. We are here to serve a higher purpose, and that is best served by contributing to the greater good. The academy exists primarily for the discovery and transmission of knowledge. That’s the “head” part of it. We’re blessed with this amazing cognitive capacity, and Jesuits are known for rigorously developing the tremendous gift of the human mind. We couple that intellectual rigor with an emphasis on the heart. We form people. As I said in my inaugural address, the mark of our alumni, the measure of this institution, is not in the facts that are mastered, but in the character that is formed. So we’re serving a higher purpose through the generation, application and transmission of knowledge, through compassionate, patient-centered medical care and through the service that we provide many in so many ways. Pestello At a Glance Personal Details Cleveland native 62 years old Married to Dr. Frances Pestello Children: Vitina and Freddie Education Ph.D., 1985, University of Akron-Kent State University, Sociology M.A., 1981, University of Akron, Sociology B.A., 1974, John Carroll University, Sociology Professional History 2008-14: Professor of Sociology, Le Moyne College 2000-08: Professor of Sociology, University of Dayton 1991-2000: Associate Professor of Sociology, University of Dayton 1985-91: Assistant Professor of Sociology, University of Dayton 1984-85: Instructor, University of Dayton Administrative Experience 2008-14: President, Le Moyne College 2001-08: Provost and Senior Vice President for Educational Affairs, University of Dayton January-June 2001: Provost Designate, University of Dayton 1997-2000: Associate Dean, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Dayton 1993-97: Chair, Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Social Work, University of Dayton On the Job What have your first few months in office been like? FP: Overall, they’ve been terrific. My wife, Fran, and I could not have been more warmly, enthu-siastically and graciously received, both in St. Louis and on campus. It’s been extraordinarily positive. We love the city, the culture and the vast array of things to do and visit, from walks in Forest Park to the great variety of places to dine. We live in the Central West End, which was recently named one of the nation’s 10 great neighborhoods by the American Planning Association, and we couldn’t agree more with that ranking. The SLU campus is every bit as attractive as I had heard, but it’s really the people who make an organization. And from the students to the faculty to the staff to the administrative team with whom I’m fortunate to work, I am inspired and humbled. Of course, I never expected anything like the problems that surfaced in Ferguson last sum-mer and fall. Certainly St. Louis is not unique in the challenges we face here, and I am optimistic about our future. Like everyone else with whom I have spoken, I intend, personally and for the Why is it important to emphasize SLU’s Catholic, Jesuit nature? FP: Our Catholic and Jesuit nature is important on a number of levels. First of all, the institution provides people with the opportunity to worship and deepen their understanding and practice of their faith. We do so while ensuring that we are not only Catholic with a big “C,” but also catholic with a small “c.” We are a place that is inclusive, that welcomes people of all faith traditions and even nonbelievers into respectful dialogue with each other. You also see our Catholic and Jesuit nature revealed in the curriculum, the courses we require, the questions we ask, the disciplinary areas that we emphasize, the humanistic approach we take toward each other and the world. Fundamental to the Jesuits is seeing God in all things. Finally our mission is reflected in the tremen-dous amount of service we do — and not service in a shallow sense, but dedication to service because it’s the right thing to do based on the values and commitment that are at the heart of our 2,000-year faith tradition. Christ is our model. organization, to partner with oth-ers in addressing these significant issues. As a Catholic, Jesuit university we are called by our mission to be engaged in these challenges and to work toward meaningful solutions. I am proud of how the campus responded to the October demon-stration, and I remain committed to addressing the issues that surfaced at that time. So far, what’s the best part of being SLU president? The most challenging part? FP: It is a pleasure to be the president of SLU. I am honored to be able to go out beyond the campus and represent the institution locally, regionally and nationally. And I am taken with all of the substantial things taking place across our campuses and beyond. It’s exciting to have the privilege of joining with others to lead this insti-tution. I’ve enjoyed going division by division, getting to know the campus, and feeling people’s commitment to, and passion about, what they do and their desire to do things at an even higher level. One key challenge of the presidency, particularly in tight times like these, is managing the tension between resources and affordability. Every divi-sion with which I have interacted would like more resources to do what they do even better. That is a good thing — to be ambitious for one’s work Pestello making connections Clockwise from top left: Meeting with retired faculty members at a luncheon in December Posing with his wife Fran and their Homecoming parade golf cart Taking a selfie with students at a Fall Welcome event Addressing members of Oriflamme Greeting student fans at a Billiken basketball game in February Meeting members of Oriflamme in August photos by Steve dolan, Kevin Lowder and sarah Carmody 14 universitas spr ing 2015 www.slu.edu 15 and one’s department. Nearly everyone would like more resources and could use them. On the other hand, we have to steward our resources carefully and seriously engage the question of affordability. We must ensure that the institution remains financially accessible, and, here too, I see some concrete steps being taken at SLU and in private higher education nationally. As I indicated in my inaugural address, there are three primary matters we need to address University-wide this year. First is the creation of an ambitious strategic plan. Second is to seri-ously grapple with the challenge of affordability. And third is to more deeply engage with the problems of poverty, violence and injustice that impact our region and beyond. What did you take away from your inauguration experience? FP: It was a truly humbling experience. I was, at one point during the Mass prior to the inaugura-tion and then during the inauguration ceremony itself, thinking, I’m just one person; this is a lot of celebrating for a single, fallible individual. So I tried hard to think of it as not a celebration of an individual, or a president, but a celebration of an institution, one with a rich history, noble purpose and substantial promise. That’s what I hoped was reflected in my inau-gural address: how impressive SLU is, what SLU has been, what it grew from, what it has been able to do and what’s most exciting is its poten-tial, which I think is enormous. The world needs more people like those we form and graduate. I was taken, touched, moved by how many people pulled together to create those extraor-dinarily complex, large-scale events and have them come off so smoothly. It was another mark of the character, dedication and skill of the peo-ple here. Why was it important for you to emphasize SLU’s history in your speech? And why is it important going forward? FP: It was important for me and important for the community to ref lect upon our history. It’s hard to know where to go if you do not know your history. And we have such a compelling story. When you think about how we were formed, what this area was like when Bishop DuBourg decided to start an academy, it’s powerful. It’s moving. And then to realize, now, nearly 200 years later, we are living what they dreamed and what they sacrificed for — isn’t that spectacular? There is a bold, pioneering spirit that has pro-pelled this academy since its founding, and that spirit continues to reverberate to this day. Outside of academia, what was your favorite job? I enjoyed my time in radio; that was a lot of fun. I started in radio during my senior year of college and then worked in commercial broadcasting for two years after graduation. I did every-thing — engineering, selling airtime, being a disc jockey, reading news and hosting talk shows. Anything you could do on radio, I did. I most enjoyed the talk/interview shows. Who are your role models? I’ve been blessed with a number of role models and mentors who have taken the time and trouble to invest in my development. One in particu-lar is Brother Ray Fitz, the longtime president of the University of Dayton. He is now the Father Ferree Professor of Social Justice in the Fitz Center for Leadership in Community. Brother Ray was honored in February with the Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh, C.S.C., Award from the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities for his work as a leader in Catholic higher education. I also have benefited from having many colleagues and mentors who have influenced me and invested in my development. I continue to rely on them to this day. If you could have dinner with one historical figure, who would it be? It would have to be Christ. If you had a time machine, when would you go and where? There would be three times I would most like to visit. Assuming the time travel would also allow me to understand the vernacular, the first would be ancient Greece as thinking began to move from superstition to logic and expla-nation. Second, I would love to have been in Florence in the 15th century. I can only imagine the excitement of this powerful intel-lectual, artistic and cultural rebirth after a long period of stagnation and decline. Third, I would like to go back to the founding of our country. I’m fascinated with what took place in our country during the late 1700s. What is your least favorite task, something that just drives you crazy? I’m not wild about housework or yardwork. I do like washing dishes, however, and do not like dishwash-ers. I find that there are often items that do not get properly cleaned, probably due to my improper load-ing. I much prefer to wash dishes by hand. This drives Fran crazy because she says that I have never encountered an appliance or machine that I did not embrace. She does not under-stand my aversion to dishwashers. To tease her I tell her that dishwash-ers scare me. She does not think that’s funny. I find, however, that there is something comforting in washing dishes in nice hot soapy water. And they all get properly clean every time. How do you relax? I enjoy reading, bicycling, theater, traveling and good company and conversation over nice wine and a well-prepared meal. On very rare occasions I will paint something abstract. I love listening to music live and on a good audio system. I enjoy studying and comparing audio equipment, although I keep up with it much less now than I did when I was younger. I love jazz the most but also listen to classical and classic rock. The new Ferring Jazz Bistro in Grand Center is one of my favorite spots in town. I also have a passion for cars. My father dealt with cars in one way or another throughout his career. When he was young, he built and raced cars. Because of his work I had the chance to drive many different cars, some fairly powerful. I have owned a couple of imported red convertible sports cars with manual transmissions. An artfully designed and well-engineered car is both visually captivating and tac-tilely exhilarating. I miss the joys of admiring and driving a crisply responsive car. Early riser or night owl? Used to be a night owl, more early riser now. Biggest guilty pleasure? Definitely junk food. I’m more for the savory side. I love ket-tle- cooked chips, nachos, buttered popcorn, all that kind of stuff. Pet peeve? I can’t stand waiting on the phone in those long endless queues or going through a long phone tree and ending up with a final list of options that do not reflect my need or concern; that drives me crazy. Favorite TV show? The only show that I watch with some degree of regularity is CBS Sunday Morning. Fran and I established that habit early in our marriage. Are there movies that resonate with you over time? Absolutely — The Godfather and The Godfather Parts II and III. Particularly the first two. Is there a sports team that you follow? The Billikens! First concert? The Kinks. While I like classic rock, I am not a big rock concert fan. I have only been to about a half dozen rock concerts in my life. First album you ever owned? Meet The Beatles. I still have that well-worn vinyl disc. The Campus Demonstration Just over a week after the inauguration, a large demonstration took place on campus. What was going through your mind the early morning of Oct. 13 when demonstrators began an encampment on campus? FP: It was a Sunday night. And I was sound asleep when, around 1:30 in the morning, I was awakened by a call from the head of our department of public safety (DPS), Jim Moran. Jim told me that a large group was marching north on Grand Boulevard toward campus. They were coming from the Shaw neighborhood. Jim’s a smart guy. He has more than 30 years experience in law enforcement. He quickly reviewed some likely scenarios with me. One of them was the possibility that the demonstrators — some of whom might be our students — would turn onto the campus. If that were to occur, Jim asked what I wanted our DPS officers and the St. Louis Police to do. As we talked, we knew marchers were getting closer to our campus. He indicated the groups were loud and acting peacefully, but we had only minutes to decide. Jim and I quickly agreed that it was best to permit the demonstrators to walk on campus and not to try to stop them. Our initial decision was to meet peace with peace. Pestello Profile Dr. Fred P. Pestello answered some lighter questions, too. Pestello at inauguration Clockwise from top left: Worshipping with (from left), his wife Fran, daughter Vitina and son Freddie Receiving a blessing from Ron Mercier, S.J., provincial of the U.S. Central and Southern Province of the Society of Jesus, during the Mass of Celebration at St. Francis Xavier College Church the day before the inauguration ceremony Walking down the aisle with Fran photos by Steve dolan 16 universitas spr ing 2015 www.slu.edu 17 I soon heard that some of our students were part of the demonstration. In fact, they were on Grand Boulevard waving their IDs indicating to DPS officers that they were SLU students and that the other demonstrators were their guests. As the marchers walked onto our campus, hun-dreds of students poured out of their residence halls, many to join with the activity or to simply to see what was going on. They marched to the clock tower, where speakers addressed the group. I was up most of the night, as were many of our vice presidents. We were in constant contact with Jim, who was at the clock tower watching and listening. Over the course of the night, demonstrators drifted away, and by the time the sun came up there were only a couple dozen people left. The groups engaged in conver-sations with students and faculty who were walking to class that Monday morning. And they turned to social media to request tents, food, water and other supplies. Their calls for support to people on campus and off were quickly answered. What was your approach to resolving what became known on social media as OccupySLU? Why did you favor discussion over removal? FP: From the start, the demonstrators, many of whom were SLU students, made it clear that they were not leaving. That worried me and my senior team. We found ourselves jumping to the worst case. Maintaining campus safety and fundamental operations were always a priority. We presumed demonstrators camped around the clock tower would disrupt campus for weeks to come, inciting student withdrawals, reducing campus visits by prospective students, decreasing applications for admission and affecting our fundraising. And while my advisers and I considered next steps, our phones were ringing nonstop. Emails were pouring in. Although large numbers of alumni and community leaders applauded the initial peaceful and inclusive reactions, many were advocating swift, authoritative action against the demonstrators. Some were using hateful language to convey their displeasure to University staff. The pressure to act was intense. This convergence of talking about worst-case consequences and getting angry calls, thank-fully, spurred the revelation that fear — not who we are as an institution, nor our core Jesuit values — was driving our actions. We abruptly tabled the actions we were considering and took the time to see the concerns of those who were part of the encampment through the lens of our Jesuit principles — the same principles that have guided SLU through nearly 200 years. We were literally asking ourselves: What would Jesus do? What would St. Ignatius do? What would Pope Francis do? We embraced a more values-based approach to our deci-sion making, which is all you can do in such situations — situations that are tense, f luid, unstructured, risky circumstances with neither a clear script to follow nor an obvious path to dialogue, let alone resolution. We had to trust our mission-bred instincts and engage those who were advocating for some of the least advan-taged among us. Early in the week, we could not find a path to establish conversation with the demonstrators. Some outside leaders who tried on our behalf came away feeling such discussions were hopeless. On the positive side, the daily teach-ins and group discussions remained peaceful. Demonstrators sought to build awareness about racial inequities. They promoted self-reflection among some students and vehement objection by others. What else did the demonstrators want to accomplish? Thanks to Dr. Stefan Bradley, the chair of our African American studies depart-ment, we were able to arrange a breakthrough meeting that Thursday. Two SLU students, who were leaders in the campus occupation, met with a few of us in the administration. Two black fac-ulty members, a staff member and a community activist also joined the conversation. All par-ties made a concerted effort to build upon our mutual agreement that SLU could do better. Through respectful discussion, we rapidly moved to an agreement that outlined how we would do better to promote equity, educational success and economic development. The Clock Tower Accords ended the occupation peacefully that Saturday, Oct. 18. No one was hurt, and no property was damaged. It was a long and stressful week, but it revealed to me the true character of the SLU stu-dents, faculty and staff. I deeply appreciate all that so many did to help us in so many ways that allowed us to innovate our way through that try-ing week, particularly the department of public safety officers. As I have said a few times, we spoke in the poetry of compassion, respect and dignity rather than the prose of fear, power and threats. Living our values made the difference that week, for all of us. SLU and St. Louis How does what happened at SLU fit into the movement that began in Ferguson? FP: Saint Louis University is an integral part of the City of St. Louis and the greater St. Louis region. We have been here, in the city, for nearly 200 years. SLU is at the table with the other leaders in the community, trying to work collaboratively to advance the interests of the region — and that’s not simply at my level; that takes place throughout the organi-zation. People at all levels look to us for this engagement. By virtue of our mission we are called to be a partner with those working to combat poverty and create a better future for all, particularly for the least advantaged. I am amazed at all that we at SLU do in the region. Our students, faculty and staff provide over one million hours of service a year. I asked for a list of our many initiatives in the region, and it runs on for literally dozens and dozens of pages. We genuinely seek to serve those with few resources in numerous ways, from free health services to educational enrichment programs. I vividly remember Make A Difference Day this past fall when over 4,000 students spent a Saturday going out into our least fortunate neighborhoods to lend a hand. There are many other mission-related facts of which we should be proud, including those whom we serve. In recent years more than 20 percent of our entering class of undergraduate students are Pell Grant-eligible, which means that they are likely to have family incomes of much less than $60,000 per year. Through efforts like our Go Further Scholarship Campaign, which matches scholarship gifts of $100 or more, we are keeping SLU within financial reach of most who seek and qualify for an education here. And we continue to attract strong students — the most academically prepared classes in our history. But we can and must do even more. What is the most interesting thing you’ve discovered about St. Louis? FP: That the city is not part of the county. I didn’t get it at first. People say, “The city is not part of the county,” and, at first, I thought they were speak-ing figuratively. I believe that it is incumbent upon the leaders of the region to address municipal fragmentation, which is contributing to some of the most significant problems the area is facing. I’ve also come to better appreciate the history of the region and the importance of the area as the Gateway to the West. I am reminded of the region’s importance by the house that we live in, which was built at the time of the 1904 World’s Fair and is located just a few blocks from Forest Park. I purchased a reproduction of the map of the fair and have it hung in the entry hall. As time permits I am reading about the history of the region and the importance of St. Louis. That’s been fun. First Family You and your family are our first “first family.” How are they adjusting to this? FP: Twice my wife Fran and I have been profes-sionally separated. We met and married in grad-uate school and then lived apart as we started our careers at different colleges. We soon came together at the University of Dayton, where I had started. When I moved to Syracuse, New York, to become president of Le Moyne College, Fran was the chair of the department of sociol-ogy, anthropology and social work at Dayton and wanted to finish her chairship, so she stayed back and didn’t join me permanently until three years into my presidency. Pestello reaching out Clockwise from top left: Posing with alumnus David Corcoran (A&S ’64) during Homecoming weekend Speaking to Make A Difference Day volunteers at Robert R. Hermann Stadium in October Meeting with a community member at the North Campus Organization site on Make A Difference Day Surrounded by the men’s soccer team on inauguration day Speaking to students on Make A Difference Day The Pestello family From left: Freddie, Fran, Fred and Vitina photos by Steve dolan photo by Steve dolan 18 universitas spr ing 2015 www.slu.edu 19 When we came here, we decided that at this stage of life and career, Fran would come with me and, for the first time, not know specifically what she was going to do in terms of her academic work. She chose to leave that open. Fran loves being here as much as I do. SLU is a terrific institution. And we adore the neighborhood that we’re in. We would not have undertaken this move if it wasn’t something that was very attractive and appealing to both Fran and me. Fran describes it as an adventure, and it is, a wonderful adventure. Wherever I go in the region I am stopped and told of how special a place SLU holds in people’s hearts and how important it is as a moral authority in St. Louis. I recently returned from the annual meetings of the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities where, thanks to our collective response to and communications about the challenges emerging in Ferguson, many commented that SLU has emerged as a leading voice on some of the most compelling issues of our times. Those sorts of interactions continue to reinforce the privilege and responsibility we have as SLU’s first family. Talk about your children. FP: Our daughter Vitina, a graduate of the University of Dayton, had been in Florida for four years doing service work for the Sisters of the Humility of Mary and then working directly for the Coalition of Immokalee Workers. Last summer, she decided to leave her work to join us here. She has begun bridgework in the sciences to ultimately enter a nursing program. In the meantime she has taken a position at SLU as program coordinator of the Faith and Justice Collaborative. We’re thrilled to have our daughter here with us in St. Louis and at SLU. Our son Freddie lives in Cincinnati. He graduated from Le Moyne and is working across the Ohio River in Covington, Kentucky, for Fidelity Investments. He is passionate about sports, much more than I, and now follows the Billikens. Future Plans Last fall SLU launched a strategic planning process to chart SLU’s direction. Why is this effort so important to the University? FP: It is important in two ways: The process itself is important, and the document is obviously important. The process is important because it causes people to stand back and reflect upon SLU and what it should be. And that dialogue needs to take place both in homogeneous and heteroge-neous groupings so that we are in conversation with each other, thinking about the institution, its mission and its role moving forward. The process itself is institution-building. The plan will set our priorities so that we can focus our energy and resources around them. It will also become the basis upon which we will draft our next comprehensive fundraising campaign — one that will be designed to celebrate our bicentennial anniversary, which, obviously, will be a very special moment in SLU’s storied history. People are prone to ask you as SLU’s new president, “What is your vision?” And you’ve said, “That’s to be determined.” Why is that your response? FP: It goes back to the strategic plan and the conversations among stu-dents, faculty and staff that make up that process. This should not be and will not be my strategic plan. It has to be our strategic plan. The fact that it comes from the bottom up — not top down — means it will be much bolder and richer. And it should better ref lect our strengths and capacities across the University. Also, because it is thoroughly grounded in conversations throughout the broader SLU com-munity, people are invested in it and are willing to embrace and support it. They’re willing to play an active role in fulfilling the strategic plan’s vision and achieving its objectives because it is our vision, our objectives. I am sure alumni — as ambassadors of SLU and donors to SLU — have points of view about our strategic plan, too. I invite them to review draft documents and share their thoughts, feel-ings and questions with us via the website (slu. edu/strategicplan). What do the next five years have in store for SLU? FP: One achievement that would please me is if SLU were to be widely and universally thought of, both nationally and internationally, as unquestionably one of the nation’s very top Catholic research universities. Thanks to the work of so many here over so many years, we are well on our way. How can alumni assist in moving SLU forward? FP: There are a number of things the alumni can do to help: Be engaged, and attend reunions. Become active in alumni chapters, and stay close to the departments, schools and colleges from which they earned their degrees. I would ask alumni to continue to speak fre-quently and fondly about SLU, particularly to younger people and the parents of younger people — in other words, to serve as informal recruiters. I ask our alumni to encourage stu-dents who are looking at colleges to visit SLU. I also ask that our alumni make sure that they send a gift every year so that our alumni giving rate ref lects the passion of the alumni for the institution. Finally, they can continue to keep us in their prayers, as we keep them in ours. Dr. Fred P. Pestello is on Twitter. Follow him at @SLUPresident. UTAS It was a historic day for Saint Louis University on Oct. 3, as nearly 2,500 people came together in Chaifetz Arena to celebrate the inaugura-tion of SLU’s new president Dr. Fred P. Pestel lo, the University’s first permanent lay leader. During the ceremony, which was preceded by a Mass the day before, Pestello received official greetings from representatives of the students, faculty, staff, alumni and Jesuit community, as well as from the president of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities. In addition, the ceremony included prayers from St. Louis Archbishop Robert J. Carlson and Msgr. J. Robert Yeazel, family friend of Pestello’s and vicar general of the Diocese of Syracuse, New York. It also featured musical performances by student ensembles. Ronald Mercier, S.J., provin-cial of the Central and Southern Province of the Society of Jesus, missioned Pestello, asking him to remain committed to the values of the Jesuit order and to pattern his leadership after Christ who, “came to serve and not be served.” J. Joseph Adorjan, then chairman of the University’s board of trustees, led the official investiture of Pestello as SLU’s 33rd president. Pestello then was presented with two sym-bols of his authority: the presidential mace and chain of office. After his investiture, Pestello took to the podium to deliver his first major address as president. Here is the entire speech. To watch a video of the ceremony, visit slu.edu/inauguration. Higher Purpose. Greater Good. The 201 4 Inaugur a l A ddre s s o f Dr . Fre d P. Pe st e l lo photos by Steve dolan 20 universitas spr ing 2015 www.slu.edu 21 Welcome to our many distinguished guests, including leaders in higher education, rep-resentatives of civic organizations, government officials, and members of the clergy. I am grate-ful for everyone who traveled from near and far to be here today. And greetings to those who are watching remotely — hola, mis amigos en Madrid. Your presence, literally and virtually, honors Saint Louis University. Thank you all for the support you have provided to Fran and me as we become Billikens and for everything you do for SLU. Know that I am truly humbled by the opportunity to lead this exceptional university. I want to thank the members of the board of trustees, the Presidential Search and Selection Committees, the Jesuits of SLU, and Father Provincial Ron Mercier. I admire your service to the University and appreciate the trust you have placed in me. I also wish to thank everyone who has facilitated and supported my tran-sition, particularly Archbishop Robert Carlson and my immediate predecessor, Bill Kauffman. I am indebted to the inaugural com-mittee and the many members of the SLU community who devoted countless hours to preparing for this ceremony and related events. Your efforts nicely demonstrate what SLU is all about. Fran and I treasure the many mem-bers of our extended families and longtime friends who are able to share this celebration with us. Together, we keep in mind those who cannot be here or who are no longer with us. It is also a joy to share this event with my two amazing children, Vitina and Freddie, of whom Fran and I are enor-mously proud. As I am sure they know, I am savoring this moment when they must sit quietly and listen attentively to their father. One lesson I learned long ago is that little of signif icance is ever accom-plished alone, and for me, much less would have been achieved and the jour-ney far less enjoyable without my loving spouse and partner of 33 years, Fran. Thank you, Fran, for supporting and sharing in this exciting new adventure. Like many of you, I am the first mem-ber of my family to graduate from college. I am forever grateful to the educators and mentors who guided and challenged me. They saw in me the person I was capable of becoming and prepared me for this precious opportunity. As the new president of Saint Louis University, I am also grateful for the administrators, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and supporters who, for 196 years, toiled, sacrificed, and invested because they believed in this organiza-tion’s mission and understood what it was capable of achieving. And so this morning, I will reflect collectively with you on the spirit that has infused Saint Louis University since its founding. Our unquenchable thirst for truth, our deep longing to understand, causes us to ponder, speculate, and wonder. This stirring within our minds and hearts is what it means to be human. This drive nudges, pokes and even shoves humanity forward. The university is a place where this unceasing quest is rigorously and sys-tematically pursued. The knowledge acquired is passed on to each new gen-eration. This makes the academy one of humankind’s most essential and endur-ing creations. Cathol icism, and, w ithin that 2,000-year-old faith tradition, the Jesuits, directs inquiry for noble pur-poses. Since the founding of the Society of Jesus in 1540, the Jesuits have imbued the development of the intellect with a focus on justice. As a Jesuit research univer si t y, we are called to ask the most compelling questions of our time. Our mission statement itself is a ref lection of this extraordi-nary vocation. We commit ourselves to “the pursuit of truth for the greater glory of God and the service of human-ity.” We do this through excellence in “teaching, research, health care and service.” And we strive to lead in “the discovery, dissemination and integra-tion of the values, knowledge and skills required to transform society in the spirit of the Gospels.” The result is an education that does not simply give our graduates the skills to succeed in their respective careers but also imbues them with the wisdom to lead lives of mean-ing and purpose. In pursuit of our mission, we foster the sort of academic environment that bonds University resources with local, national, and international communi-ties. Through collaborative efforts, we search for answers; transmit, integrate, and apply knowledge; address vexing problems; extend compassionate care; and improve the quality of life. In the Jesuit tradition, our work is directly linked to the world in which we live and learn. Thus, we who are Saint Louis University forge a path that serves a higher purpose by contributing to the greater good. Our mission ultimately speaks to our shared pioneering heri-tage, born in the city that shares our name. It is not surprising that three miles to the east of where we now gather, there stands a gleaming monument to the vast migration of the United States westward. The towering Gateway Arch is a striking tribute to the brave set-tlers who saw boundless opportunity in the new frontier, a movement that began right here on the banks of the Mississippi River. In 1818, in a spot now in the shadow of the Arch, the Most Reverend Louis DuBourg rented a simple log home to establish a school. In his day, Bishop DuBourg was described as “one of the truly cultured men of America.” He had already outrun revolutionaries in France and dined with President George Washington by the time he trav-eled by stagecoach and steamboat from New Orleans to St. Louis. When Bishop DuBourg arrived here to establish his new diocese, St. Louis was a dusty settlement of 3,000 people, just slightly more than the number of individuals here in Chaifetz Arena this morning. And Missouri was a rough-and- tumble territory still three years away from statehood. Education in these untamed parts was mostly lim-ited to lessons in dancing and sword fighting. Undeterred, Bishop DuBourg established his school for “the moral and literary improvement of the pupils.” With a simple ad in the Missouri Gazette, he sought students for the new academy, setting his visionary plan in motion. From that boldness, Saint Louis University was born. Imagine that in this largely unex-plored land that stretched from the Mississippi River, through the plains, over the Rocky Mountains, across the Grand Canyon, to the Pacific Ocean, there was but one institution of higher learning — the first and only seat of formal study and discourse in the American west. Bishop DuBourg quickly realized that he alone could not do all that had to be done. He appealed to the pro-vincial of the Maryland Jesuits for assistance. In 1823, his request was granted. Twelve Belgian Jesuits living in Baltimore were ordered to join him. Picture the remarkable journey of these men. They traversed moun-tains, wilderness and raging rivers to open a school for Native Americans on a farm just north of here, near Florissant, Missouri. These Jesuit com-panions walked — yes, walked — from Baltimore to the mouth of the Ohio River in Pittsburgh. From Pittsburgh, these untrained sailors took to the river, tying two rafts together and setting off amid the keelboats and barges. They landed in Shawneetown, Illinois, and began walking again, this time the 150 miles to the Mississippi River, where they crossed over to St. Louis. In 1826, Bishop DuBourg invited these intrepid Jesuits to take the reins of what had become Saint Louis College. Under their steadfast lead-ership, the f ledgling college gained permanence. Within a year, the Jesuits had raised enough money (fundraising isn’t new to the Jesuits!) to open a new brick, three-story school building. Soon, 120 day-scholars and 30 boarders were enrolled in the college. The bravery, ingenuity, piety and charity of those first Jesuits became the spirit of Saint Louis University. Father Peter Verhaegen, one of those 12 pioneering Jesuits, was just 29 when he became SLU’s president. Despite his relative youth, he was prescient, taking bold steps so as to open the possibilities for others to pose bold questions. He real-ized that to ensure the college’s future, he had to petition the state for a university charter. Granted in December of 1832, it gave Saint Louis University i t s name and it s s tature. Father Verhaegen also expanded the school beyond its traditional, classical educational style, awarding our first graduate degrees and founding our original medical school, the first west of the Mississippi. Many visionaries followed, building a long and impressive list of firsts for the University. Intellectuals and lead-ing figures soon began to look to us as a source of knowledge. In the mid-19th century, our library was known as “the rarest in the West,” underscoring our increasing importance. The course of history, however, does not always run smoothly. Saint Louis University faced its share of adversity and hostility. As St. Louis grew and more Catholic immigrants arrived here, a bias against them took hold. Growing unrest reached the campus on February 22, 1844, when an armed mob smashed into the College of Medicine and destroyed everything. Later, when anti-Catholicism resurfaced, a local mob comprised of members of the Know-Nothing movement threatened to destroy Catholic churches and our University. Fortunately, they were deterred by rumors of a pending counterattack. Not onl y did SLU sur - vive these threats, it thrived. During the 20th century, the University was noted for its leadership and innovation. In 1949, Father Paul Reinert began his 25-year tenure as president. Early in his presidency the University received a tempting offer to move from the troubled city to the bur-geoning suburbs. Father Reinert made the mission-based decision to keep the campus here, a conclusion that invig-orated the Midtown neighborhood we still call home. Pestello sits with members of the stage party, including (from left) St. Louis Archbishop Robert Carlson, then SLU Board Chairman J. Joe Adorjan, Provincial Ron Mercier, S.J., and Trustee Patrick Sly. Pestello delivers his inaugural address. The 2 01 4 I naugur a l A ddr e s s of Dr . Fr e d P. Pe s t e l lo 22 universitas spr ing 2015 www.slu.edu 23 It was also during Father Reinert’s presidency that we began to spread our wings through the development of a study abroad program in Spain. Launched in 1967 in rented classrooms, Saint Louis University-Madrid is now a bona fide campus with an enrollment of 620 students who hail from around the globe. That same year Father Reinert made another critical decision, one that would have a lasting impact on Catholic higher educat ion. He establ ished the first lay board of trustees at any American Catholic university. This was a direct response to the Second Vatican Counci l, which cal led for greater involvement from the laity in apostolic work. Other universities quickly fol-lowed suit. And of course, more recently, Father Lawrence Biondi’s 26 years at the helm were transformative. Described as the “re-inventor of SLU,” Father Biondi’s vision resulted in record student enroll-ments, recognition as a major center of research, and the creation of the beauti-ful, residential, urban campus we have today. Along our journey, trailblazing has also been the domain of pioneering faculty members who have each left an indelible mark on this University. Among them, William Robyn, who first brought the rich music of Mozart, Haydn and Beethoven to the city in 1836, and Father James Macelwane, who in 1925 established the department of geophysics, the first department of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. At our School of Medicine, Dr. Edward Doisy discovered Vitamin K and received a Nobel Prize for his research in 1943. Father Claude Heithaus chal-lenged unjust convention and fought to integrate the University back in 1944. His efforts made SLU the first histori-cally white university in a former slave state to adopt a formal policy to admit African-American students. And many of you remember Father Walter Ong, who is ranked among the most inf lu-ential scholars of the 20th century. Through his more than 450 publica-tions, he broke new ground in areas from orality and literacy studies to the evolution of consciousness. Our current faculty follows in the footsteps of the dedicated scholars of the past. These experts ask the ques-tions that push intellectual boundaries and move society forward. They remain devoted to their quest to expose our students to the marvels of the highest achievements of human thought and creativity. And they are full partners across the University in promoting and inspiring a more just world — whether on SLU’s Frost Campus, our Medical Center one mile south, our law school downtown, or our Madrid Campus 4,400 miles east. Because of the caliber of the work of our scholars, SLU is recognized as a leading Jesuit research university. Consider our Center for World Health and Medicine, the home of pharma-ceutical scientists whose work was no longer deemed prof itable enough to their large employer. We invited them to continue their research here, where they focus on treatments and cures for devastating diseases that primarily affect the developing world. We are also known for our mis-sion- centered outreach efforts. One of many fine examples is our Jesuit Health Resource Center in North St. Louis. This clinic, which was founded by our medical students, brings care directly to an area where it is desperately needed. Every Saturday for more than 20 years, medical students and their faculty mentors attend to the under-served and underinsured. Recently, physical therapy and social work stu-dents joined the effort. Likewise, the members of our clin-ical practice, SLUCare, are inspired to deliver state-of-the-art medicine with compassion. They determinedly seek treatment appropriate to each particular case, literally saving lives. Furthermore, they conduct significant and substantive research while provid-ing exceptional training as role models for our students. Our enterprising faculty attracts equally enterprising students. These high-achieving young men and women — undergraduate, graduate and pro-fessional — journey to Saint Louis Universit y from around the globe. They bring energy, passion, optimism, spirit and heart. They come to study in our philosophy program, which has five areas at the graduate level ranked among the world’s very best. They come to study health law in a program that is consistently ranked as the first or sec-ond finest in the country. They come to study entrepreneurship in the No. 14 program in the United States. They come to study — the arts, aviation, business, dental specialties, education, engineering, health sciences, human-ities, law, medicine, math, nursing, natural sciences, public health, social sciences, social work and technology — which together build a long list of top-ranked programs. I witness the transformative, charac-ter- building power of a SLU education whenever I meet a SLU graduate. We have so many amazing alumni — nearly 120,000 — and their achievements could fill volumes. But I would like to focus on one remarkable woman who is an inspiring example of what it means to be a Billiken, Mary Bruemmer. Mar y f irst came to Saint Louis University in 1938 as a freshman. At the time only 5 percent of our students were women. She returned to us in 1956 as a member of the staff, earning her master’s degree in 1960. During her long career Mary served as the dean of women, dean of student affairs and assistant to the vice president for devel-opment. Since retiring in 1990, Mary has remained an abiding presence as a volunteer, and at age 94 is still working out of her office in DuBourg Hall. Mary embodies the amazing ded-ication of the SLU staf f, a staf f of thousands who serve in every depart-ment and division throughout this University. Their work is vital, valued, and integral to our mission. As large and talented as we are, we alone cannot achieve all that needs to be accomplished. In both St. Louis and Madrid, we are fortunate to be able to partner with a number of fine institutions of higher learning, as well as businesses, hospitals, other nonprof-its, religious organizations and various consortia. To address increasingly com-plex challenges and questions, these collaborations must be strengthened, and our engagement, nationally and internationally, expanded. Further, educating the whole person for the 21st century requires a deeper engagement with the entire world across a broad range of experiences. Thus, expand-ing the internationalization of our programs is essential, as is increasing diversity throughout our campuses. As we have for nearly two centuries, we will continue to unify our energies around interdisciplinary engagement with the most intelligent and compel-ling questions of our time. Our current reality demands, however, that we address three critical questions emerg-ing from our mission and essential for our future success. First, we must grapple with the ques-tion that sets our course for the future: “What must we become?” Within the vast and varied landscape of higher education, we are compelled to contem-plate what we are called to do. In August, I convened a representative group of the SLU community to launch a strategic planning process. This inclu-sive and transparent project must be grounded in meaningful dialogue across all sectors of our community. Thus, during the course of this academic year, we will gather in various groupings to engage in thoughtful discussion of our university. The quality of these discus-sions will determine the contour of our future, for the outcome will be a plan that charts our path forward. Second, we must address the most signif icant issue facing higher edu-cat ion — cost . I am cal l ing for a campus-wide consideration of the question: “How do we keep SLU afford-able, while continuously improving the quality of education in and out of the classroom?” Data clearly demonstrate that the financial return of a college education far outweighs the price. Further, there is no doubt about the benefits of higher education for both the individual and society — it is through education that humankind advances. Nonetheless, the economic reality is that some simply can no longer afford a college education, and if trends continue, more will be joining their ranks. There are no easy answers to the question of affordability, and technol-ogy is not a panacea. While technology must be embraced for the many ways in which it can facilitate the trans-mission and acquisition of knowledge, our Jesuit-inspired mission is grounded in the belief that authentic human relationships are fundamental to educating. The most important part of the education we offer is not in the facts that are mastered but in the character that is formed. It is only through sustained face-to-face inter-action that relationships are built and the skills that make us fully human are acquired and honed. These skills are the mark of our alumni and the mea-sure of our institution. I plan to form a group to lead us in a collaborative effort to address this for-midable challenge. We need critical and creative thinking — something we do so well here at SLU. Third, recent events in the St. Louis region compel us to delve even deeper into the circumstances that continue to undermine the life chances of our fel-low citizens. These include the factors that foster ongoing divisions and per-petuate the chronic, systemic injustice that traps so many of our brothers and sisters. As a Catholic, Jesuit university we must now ask: “What else should we do for and with our neighbors?” Our specific strengths in teaching, research, compassionate medical care, and other forms of service must be replicated in ways that reach even more of those in need. I have been talking with many of you about how to best engage our community in this important question. I will share the results of my thinking and seek yours in the coming weeks. St. Ignatius Loyola told his followers: “Go forth and set the world on f ire.” At Saint Louis University, that is what we do — we ignite a desire to learn and to serve, to think critically, creatively, and compassionately, to blaze trails in thought and action. Together, we carry forward the f lame of hope, ignited by our pioneering predecessors. The Jesuit passion burns within us from athletics to art museums, from classrooms to campus ministry, from residence life to residency programs. It is our hallmark. From our founding in 1818 to our sta-tus as a leading international research university of prodigious achievement in 2014, we have been a home for explor-ers and pioneers. They have invested mightily in building this dynamic orga-nization, bringing us to this propitious moment. We must continue the trajec-tory begun by those who came before us, taking up this sacred charge and reach-ing the highest level in all that we do. SLU’s past is what drew me here. Its extraordinary potential is what motivates me. Beginning with Bishop DuBourg’s trek from Louisiana and the Jesuits’ first steps west from Baltimore, the journey has sometimes been difficult, but the results have always been profound. Our next step forward begins today. Higher purpose. Greater good. May God bless you and Saint Louis University. UTAS Pestello receives the chain of office from 32nd SLU President Bill Kauffman (right) and Trustee Patrick Sly. The 2 01 4 I naugur a l A ddr e s s of Dr . Fr e d P. Pe s t e l lo 24 universitas spr ing 2015 www.slu.edu 25 For years, Saint Louis University’s Midtown neighborhood has made its reputation as the place in St. Louis to see a show. And with good reason — the area is home to Grand Center gems such as the Fabulous Fox Theatre, Powell Symphony Hall and Chaifetz Arena. But that entertainment-only reputation is about to change because of a little Swedish word: Ikea. SLU’s neighborhood is the place to be in St. Louis. — By sara hendrixson Illustration by Michael Hirshon 26 universitas spr ing 2015 www.slu.edu 27 St. Louis is getting its very own Ikea outpos t of a f fordable Scandinavian modern design, and it will be located right in Saint Louis University’s backyard. That means millions of dollars of tax revenue and hundreds of new jobs to the region, as well as countless dorm rooms full of functional, affordable furniture that can be put together with just one Allen wrench. And Ikea is certainly not the only development in the area. Cortex: Inspiration and Innovation Blurring the borders between Midtown, the Central West End and Forest Park Southeast , the Cortex Innovat ion Community is a 200-acre innovation hub. The district aims to help both estab-lished and emerging companies create a presence in the city and connect with community assets and resources, includ-ing Saint Louis University. Dennis Lower, president and CEO of Cortex, said the location is a huge asset for the district, which wants to project an inspiring and innovative atmosphere. He explained that amenities offered by the surrounding area attract businesses, as well as millenials, the population born between 1980 and the early 2000s who now make up the largest generation in the country. Proximity to Saint Louis University played a large part in Cortex’s decision to plant their roots in Midtown. When the board was formed, it initially dis-cussed settling in an undeveloped area. However, the ultimate decision favored an urban setting, putting the district adjacent to resources, such as SLU, which businesses could easily access. Lower explained that being close to fac-ulty research and students interested in internships and jobs can attract businesses. “All of these assets, including SLU, con-tribute to our ability to actualize a 24/7 live, work, play and learn environment,” Lower said. “Upon graduation, students may be more likely to remain in the city. This environment becomes a major resource for the region and a way to hold on to those graduates.” Since settling into Midtown in 2002, Cortex is wrapping up a redevelopment project covering more than 1 million square feet of construction, a $500 million investment to date. The master plan anticipates an overall $2 billion investment, 4 million square feet of development and more than 10,000 jobs, with 3,000 already in place. St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay (Law ’80) explained how Cortex’s investments have enhanced the city. “The multimillion dollar investment is helping us to compete more effectively in a global economy,” Slay said. “It is creat-ing jobs and spurring new ideas and new businesses. It is attracting more ameni-ties, housing and transportation. And it is giving college graduates a reason to put down roots in St. Louis and pursue high-tech and bioscience careers.” First Urban Ikea in the Midwest Ikea broke g round in the Cor tex Innovation District in June 2014 and ant icipates opening thi s fal l. The 380,000-square-foot store wi l l sit along the northern side of Interstate 64 at Vandeventer Avenue. The St. Louis location will be the first Ikea store in an urban area in the Midwest and only the sixth of its kind in the country. “We’ve been looking for almost 11 years now for a good site,” Ikea spokes-man Joseph Roth said. “We were looking for something central to where folks could access the store easily and thought Midtown was a wonderful opportu-nity, especially as part of the Cortex development.” Roth added that the University’s pres-ence played a large role in the company’s decision to locate in Midtown. “SLU contributes to the vibrancy of the area and reinforces long-term potential for redevelopment and vitality along the Forest Park corridor,” he said. Vince Schoemehl Jr., former St. Louis mayor and current president and CEO of Grand Center Inc., knows the neighbor-hood well and agrees that the area is ripe for growth. “The Ikea location surprised everyone in the St. Louis region,” he said. “But it is a confirmation of the advocacy of invest-ments that institutions have made over the last three decades.” Grand Center Renaissance Schoemehl has been with Grand Center for more than 13 years. He is retir-ing soon but said he has stayed so long because he believes the city is making real progress. Grand Center has been the arts dis-trict of St. Louis since the 1890s and holds a unique collection of cultural assets. In its early days, the district com-prised more than two dozen theaters, dance halls and cabarets. The area now is home to 130,000 theater seats and more than 45 nonprofit organizations. It is also a popular place to live, with new residences move-in ready in both renovated and brand-new buildings. By the end of 2015, 800 new housing units will be added to the area. Metropolitan Ar tist Lof ts, located on the nor th-east corner of Olive Street and Grand Boulevard, features units specifically designed for artists, including a variety of studios catering to each resident’s particular art medium or form. Closer to the Ikea site, The Standard will replace the Mobil gas station at Forest Park and Vandeventer avenues with a 164-unit apartment complex. During the past five years, that growth in residents has facilitated a smorgas-bord of new restaurants in the area. Alderwoman Marlene Davis, whose ward includes Saint Louis University and Midtown, remembers a time when there was only one restaurant in Midtown, Best Steakhouse. “Now you can choose any ethnic food you want to eat,” she said. “There’s Mexican, sushi, burgers and more com-ing. It’s exciting.” BaiKu Sushi Lounge recently opened inside Hotel Ignacio, and Lucha, a new Mexican restaurant, is located across from the Fox Theatre. Other additions include Urban Chestnut Brewing Co., serving craft beer and small plates, and The Dark Room, a wine and tapas bar and photo gallery. But cuisine isn’t the only interna-tional aspect of the area. An addition to Midtown’s cultural repertoire is the International Photography Hall of Fame. Relocated from Oklahoma, the museum features vintage cameras, historical pho-tographs and a library of photographic memorabilia, including a full run of Life Magazine since 1936. The hall of fame hosts a variety of seminars and exhibits throughout the year. Midtown is also home to four different radio stations, including St. Louis Public Radio station KWMU and independent station KDHX. KDHX offers training for the public with workshops and music classes, and keeps local arts and music thriving in St. Louis by supporting hundreds of con-certs and community events. “It’s a blessing to have KDHX relocate to our area,” Davis said. SLU: A Stabilizing and Driving Force Schoemehl traces Midtown’s suc-cess back to a time when Saint Louis University was offered several parcels of land in various parts of St. Louis County but turned down the offers and remained committed to the city. In 1964, then-SLU President Paul C. Reinert, S.J., gave a speech about the role urban universities play in helping to rebuild the cities they inhabit. More than 20 years later, Lawrence Biondi, S.J., now University president emeri-tus, made it his vision to beautify the campus and enhance the surrounding community, investing approximately $850 million in improvements, enhance-ments and expansions during his 26-year tenure. Today, University President Dr. Fred P. Pestello remains committed to engaging and enriching the community of Midtown. “Any number of people in the commu-nity have told me how important we are to the city and the region, particularly Midtown,” Pestello said. “If you look at The new face of Midtown (Clockwise from top left) A rendering of the completed Ikea / @4240, a building for companies involved in life sciences, research, technology and entrepreneurship, located in the Cortex district / The new home of KDHX radio in Grand Center / A gallery at the International Photography Hall of Fame on Olive Street / Groundbreaking for Ikea the development taking place around us, it’s pretty impressive — from Grand Center on the north side, to develop-ments both on the east and west side and to the south, as well. So, clearly we are, I believe, a good partner and a catalyst for development, which is good for the University and good for the region.” Slay supports this notion, saying that Saint Louis University is a “stabiliz-ing and driving force in Midtown, and it serves to stimulate the surrounding area.” In fact a recent study commissioned by SLU found that the University had $187 million in annual economic impact in Midtown alone — with an overall annual impact on the region of $715.5 million. “When SLU made the decision to expand its campus and invest, it really made a difference in Midtown, and that was the start of the boom,” Davis said. “We are bearing the results of all the planning and cooperative efforts tak-ing place for a little over 10 years in this area.” Thriving businesses, entertainment ven-ues, international museums, restaurants to suit every palate, new places to live (and an Ikea to furnish them) — Midtown has become the place to do it all. UTAS provided photo s photo by emily clemenson 28 universitas spr ing 2015 www.slu.edu 29 Timothy Powell (Parks) retired from Delta Airlines in 2005 and now lives near Yellowstone Park in Emigrant, Mont. Robert Ritter (Law) was chosen by Best Lawyers in the Bet-the-Company Litigation category, the only category selected solely by the founding editor. Ritter lives in St. Louis. Harry Whitney (Grad) moved back to Missouri in 2013 after five years teaching at University of the Incarnate Word. He is now adjunct faculty at Fontbonne University. Mary Kay (Ponder) Wyss (A&S ’68, SW ’70) retired in 2013 after a 25-year career as a social worker at Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center. She is a court-appointed special advocate at Voices for Children. She lives in St. Louis. 1969 Dr. Theodore Blumoff (A&S ’69, Grad ’71, ’77) recently published When Nature and Nurture Collide: Early Childhood Trauma, Adult Crime, and the Limits of Criminal Law by Carolina Academic Press. He lives in Roswell, Ga. Patricia (Loesing) Bruening (Nurs ’69) retired in December 2013. She and her husband, Dr. David Bruening (A&S ’71), live in Omaha, Neb. James Virtel (Law) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers. He lives in St. Louis. 1970 William P. Levins (A&S ’70, Law ’74), district counsel for the St. Louis District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, has received the DeFleury Medal. Levins lives in Florissant, Mo. Vance Miller (A&S ’70, Law ’73) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers. He lives in St. Louis. Carol (Frankovich) Strader (A&S ’70, Grad ’72) is retired and volunteers at St. Mary’s Cathedral and the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Cheyenne, Wyo. 1971 Kenneth Brostron (A&S ’71, Law ’74) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers for his work in employment law and management. He lives in Chesterfield, Mo. Dr. John Engelhardt (A&S) is raising twin teenage grandchildren in Ashland, Ore. He serves as a scoutmaster and indulges his passion for lifelong learning. Douglas Jones (Law) serves on the governance and the nominating committees of the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation in Chicago, and is a national spokesman for the foundation. He lives in St. Louis. Lillian (Shelton) Jones (Grad) retired from teaching in 1994 and enjoys traveling and rearing grandchildren. She lives in Florissant, Mo. G. Tracy Mehan III (A&S ’71, Law ’74) was appointed to a two-year term on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s environmental financial advisory board. He lives in Vienna, Va. Sr. Barbara Reynolds (A&S ’71, Grad ’79) has taught mathematics at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee since 1979. Since 2011, she has spent a month each summer teaching English in Tanzania. 1972 Dr. Frederick Berger (Med) retired from the pediatric practice he founded in Franklin, N.C. Dr. Donald Casey (Grad) retired as professor emeritus from Felician College. His wife, Dr. Bernadette (Redmond) Casey (A&S ’69), will also retire from her position as associate dean of the School of Education at Felician College. They live in Mahwah, N.J. Anne (Lynch) Gagen (Cook ’72, Grad ’76) teamed up with many area professional women to raise more than $50,000 for the Humane Society of Missouri’s Dr. Doolittle Fund. She lives in St. Louis. Jessie Knight (A&S) is the chief executive of San Diego Gas and Electric Co. Philip Nemec (Cook) published his first novel, The Chicago Syncopator. He lives in Falls Church, Va. Anne (Coffey) Rog (A&S) is dean of academics at La Reina High School in Thousand Oaks, Calif. James Steinberg (Law), a family law mediator since 2002, completed his first novel, Boundaries. He lives close to his children, grandchildren and good friends in Humboldt County, Calif. 1973 Joseph Funfar (A&S) retired and attends Program 60 classes at The Ohio State University. Robert Stewart (Cook ’73, Law ’75) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers. He lives in Manchester, Mo. Dr. Jerry Svoboda (A&S) is a U.S. Army Reserve surgeon who has served in Iraq, Afghanistan and at Walter Reed Hospital. He lives in Rochester, N.Y. Dennis Sweeney (A&S) is a principal in the Chicago public school system. 1974 Richard Cimino (Law) has a solo law practice in Naples, Fla. Judith Hoffman (SW) completed post-master’s certificates in gerontology and in advanced psychodynamic psychotherapy. She has been in private practice since 1999 and lives in St. Louis. Francis X. O’Connor (Law) became the 120th president of the Pennsylvania Bar Association in May 2014. He is a sole practitioner in Susquehanna, Pa. Linda (Ratley) Quint (Nurs) works at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in the Center for Preoperative Assessment and Planning. She lives in Cedar Hill, Mo. Gary Sarachan (Law) was selected as one of Missouri’s 2015 Lawyers of the Year in commercial litigation by Best Lawyers in America. He lives in St. Louis. Daniel Sokol (Law) was selected as one of Missouri’s 2015 Lawyers of the Year in family law by Best Lawyers in America. He lives in St. Louis. Gerard Visel (Parks) is retiring after 30 years at Sundstrand and five at B/E Aerospace. He lives in Winnebago, Ill. Patricia Welch (Nurs) is a retired nurse who practices Healing Touch at the Minneapolis veterans’ hospital. 1975 Dianne Benz (Nurs) retired as a registered nurse after 40 years with Barnes Jewish Hospital. She lives in St. Louis. Leonard W. Buckley Jr. (Law) is of counsel with the law firm Dearing and Hartzog. He lives in Clayton, Mo. Gerard Carmody (Law) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers. He concentrates his practice in commercial, real estate and employment litigation. He lives in St. Louis. Dr. Dorothy M. Corrigan (A&S ’75, Nurs ’03, Grad ’07) is a nurse practitioner for the St. Louis Veterans Affairs Health Care System, serving on the acute psychiatry service. Sr. Mary Agnes Cross (A&S) is retired and works with a memory loss support group at Our Lady of Angels in Joliet, Ill. Peggy (Blake) Gleeson (Doisy) received the Lucy Blair Service Award from the American Physical Therapy Association. She is the associate director of the School of Physical Therapy at Texas Woman’s University in Houston. 1976 Lawrence J. Altman (Law) is the special education lead attorney and compliance officer for the Kansas City public schools. He also is an adjunct professor at Avila University. Dr. Michael Douglas (Med) and his wife, Joanne (Arnall) Douglas (A&S ‘69, Grad ’73), have retired to Georgetown, Texas. They have a consulting business that brings U.S. and Korean biotech companies to Georgetown. Joan (Schuhmacher) Dwyer (Nurs ’76, A&S ’77, Law ’81) was reappointed for a seventh term as presiding magistrate in Jerome, Ariz. She also serves as a justice of the peace pro tem for Yavapai County, Ariz. Mark D. Hassakis (Law) received an award during the Re-Connecting the Pathways Conference for his work with juvenile justice issues. He is an attorney and senior partner at Hassakis and Hassakis in Mount Vernon, Ill. Richard Watters (Law) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers for his work in health care law. He lives in St. Louis. 1950 Burnell Petry (Cook ’50, ’51) has written a weekly article titled “Sugar Creek Wanderer” since 1980. He lives in Highland, Ill., and stays active gardening, hunting and fishing. Eileen (Downes) Rehg (Doisy) is a retired teacher who teaches English-as- a-second-language classes and tutors grade school students. She lives in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Gus G. Sotiropoulos (Dent ’50, Grad ’52) received the O.B. Vaughan Special Recognition Award from the American Board of Orthodontics for his contributions to orthodontic education. He lives in Belleville, Ill. 1952 George Hrdlicka (A&S ’52, Law ’57) was named by U.S. News & World Report to the 2015 Best Lawyers in America list for his work in tax law-litigation and controversy, as owner of the national firm Chamberlain Hrdlicka. He lives in Houston. Elizabeth (Landwehr) Moore (Nurs) retired from the University of Georgia nursing program in 1996. She lives in St. Louis. 1954 Dr. Delbert Harris (Med) retired 20 years ago after 36 years in family practice in Lebanon, Ill. He enjoys a round of golf several times a week. 1956 John Ciburk (A&S) remains active in retirement with Holy Family Catholic Church and the Korean Veterans Association. He and his wife, Mary, live in Rockford, Ill., and have five children, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Dr. Francis Kapper (A&S ’56, Grad ’61, ’66) retired from Corning and lives in Williamsburg, Va. Dr. Raymond Kopsky (A&S ’56, SW ’60, Grad ’81) volunteers at Cardinal Ritter Senior Services and facilitates a cancer support group at St. Anthony’s Medical Center. He lives in St. Louis. 1959 John Coyne (A&S) published his 13th novel, Long Ago and Far Away. He lives in Westchester, N.Y., with his wife, Judith. They have a son, John Kerwin. Frederick Meier (A&S) is semi-retired after 47 years with the Principal Financial Group. He lives in Lake St. Louis, Mo. Ross Surphlis (A&S) is a retired educator living in Charlotte, N.C. 1960 F. Wayne Edwards (A&S) retired from Boeing. He lives in Innsbrook, Mo., and heads an effort to restore a log cabin for the Innsbrook Historical Society. Raymond Helmering (IT) was inducted into the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s hall of fame. He lives in St. Louis. Carol Iverson-McIntyre (Nurs) is retired from nursing and living in Sun Lakes, Ariz. She is active in St. Steven’s Catholic community and with the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Marcia Pratte (Nurs) is a clinical nurse specialist in psychiatric nursing. She is employed by Lahey Health Behavioral Services and lives in Haverhill, Mass. Dr. Dennis Wachtel (A&S ’60, Grad ’62, ’64) is a history professor at Maryville University. He lives in Chesterfield, Mo. 1961 Dr. Gerard Gerling (A&S ’61, Med ’66) maintains an active neurology practice in St. Augustine, Fla. 1962 Rudolph “Rudy” J. Gerber (A&S ’62, Grad ’63, ’64) served as a visiting law professor at the American University of Armenia in Yerevan and advised Armenia’s Ministry of Justice regarding human rights and criminal justice reforms. He teaches and practices arbitration law in San Diego. Dr. Michael S. Huckman (Med), emeritus professor of radiology at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, was honorary president of the XXth Symposium Neuroradiologicum in Istanbul. The international congress included participants from 80 countries. Dr. Robert Virtue (Dent) retired after 40 years in dentistry. He lives in Vancouver, British Columbia. 1963 Mary (Stuart) Katis (SW) and her husband, Richard, are retired. They live in Boxford, Mass., and volunteer with community service organizations and their parish, and enjoy their 10 grandchildren. H. Lloyd Kelley III (A&S) served six years as an associate circuit judge and more than 20 years as an U.S. administrative law judge before retiring in 2006. He lives in St. Louis. Paul Lagomarcino (A&S ’63, SW ’67) retired after 40 years in private practice for psychotherapy and family marriage/divorce counseling. He is a hospice volunteer and lives in Alton, Ill. Dr. Robert J. Stanley (Med) received the Walter B. Cannon Medal from the Society of Abdominal Radiology. He is professor emeritus in the department of radiology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Jack Wrobel (A&S) is treasurer of Boston’s Ford Hall Forum. He lives in Westford, Mass. 1964 Margaret (Witkowski) Bryan (Nurs) retired as director of nursing for Hinds Hospice Home. She lives in Fresno, Calif., and takes care of her three grandchildren. James Casper (A&S ’64, Grad ’65) published a novel, Everywhere in Chains, with Ignatius Press of San Francisco. He lives in London. David Harlan (A&S ’64, Law ’67) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers. He lives in St. Louis. Margaret (Caplis) Kline (Nurs) is retired and living in South Bend, Ind., where she is involved with her parish, book club and condominium association. Thomas D. Peschio (A&S) was elected to the board of trustees of Saint Leo University. Now semi-retired, he lives with his wife, Judy, in Vero Beach, Fla. They enjoy a blended family of six sons, five daughters-in-law and 10 grandchildren. John Rasp (A&S ’64, Law ’67) has served as editor of the St. Louis Bar Journal for 41 years. He lives in St. Louis. Dr. Richard Sposato (A&S ’64, Med ’68) is assistant medical director of the Free Medical Clinic Peoples City Mission in Lincoln, Neb. 1965 Dr. George M. Bohigian (Med) gave the Snyder Lecture at the annual meeting of the Cogan Ophthalmic History Society. He lives in St. Louis and is a professor of clinical ophthalmology and visual sciences at Washington University School of Medicine. Dr. Edward Lathy (A&S) is professor emeritus/retired dean of liberal arts at the Columbus College of Art and Design in Ohio. He lives in Powell, Ohio. Denis Naeger (Grad ’65, ’73) spent 48 years in Catholic secondary education, including 26 years at University of Detroit Jesuit High School. He and his wife, Jill, conduct marriage enrichment programs in the Detroit area. Joseph Thaman III (A&S ’65, Cook ’85) retired after 37 years in sales and marketing with Nestor Sales. He lives in St. Louis. Thomas Venditti (Parks) retired from Continental Airlines and lives in Lancaster County, Pa. 1966 Sherwood Demitz (A&S) retired after many years as a diplomat and in U.S. international broadcasting. He lives in Bethesda, Md. Michael Hurley (A&S ’66, Grad ’71) lives in Reston, Va., and teaches Spanish at Marymount University and Northern Virginia Community College. 1967 Joseph Melchiorre Jr. (A&S) retired from the U.S. Air Force as a colonel in 1996. For the past 17 years, he served as vice president and chief of hospital operations for Shriners Hospital for Children. He is retired in Tampa, Fla., with his wife, Sadye (Corso) Melchiorre (A&S ’69). 1968 Joseph Diekmann III (A&S ’68, Grad ’72) returned to St. Louis upon retiring after 40 years as a high school English teacher. Marvin “Roy” Martin (Parks) retired from Northrop Grumman, where he was a chief test pilot and flight test technical fellow. He lives in Lancaster, Calif. Sr. Mary Anne Poeschl, RSM (A&S) is pastoral minister at Holy Child Jesus Church in Canton, Miss. clasnotes 30 universitas spr ing 2015 www.slu.edu 31 1977 Marylyn deGonzague (Nurs) retired from the New York State Department of Health. She volunteers as a parish nurse and in the pastoral care office at Our Lady of the Assumption parish in Latham, N.Y. Theodore MacDonald (Law) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers. He lives in Town and Country, Mo. Patricia (Schmiedeler) McKenna (A&S) teaches junior high school in Windsor Locks, Conn. She and her husband, Michael McKenna (Law ’80), have two children, Mary and Patrick. 1978 Feodor Cruz (A&S) published a novel, Second Spring, A Lebensborn Story. He lives in St. Louis. Daniel Human (Law) was elected partner at Shands, Elbert, Gianoulakis and Giljum. He lives in St. Louis. Fredric Knapp (Law) was appointed Morris County, N.J., prosecutor. Kathleen A. McQueeny (A&S ’78, Law ’81) is president of First Chicago Insurance Co. Vincent Volpe (Grad ’78, Law ’82) is an assistant professor of management at SLU and serves on the St. Louis Public Library board of directors. 1979 Roberta Fischer (Grad) is a speech-language pathologist and lives in King of Prussia, Pa. Raymond Fournie (Law) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers. He lives in St. Louis. Edwin Heigl (A&S) is the director of business development for Spectrum Retirement Communities of Missouri. He lives in St. Charles, Mo. Alvin Wolff (Law) was named Best Lawyers’ 2015 Lawyer of the Year for medical malpractice law-plaintiffs in St. Louis. 1980 Barbara A. Blaine (A&S, SW) received the 2014 Elmer Gertz Award for Human Rights from the Illinois State Bar Association. She is the president and founder of the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP). She lives in Chicago. John Boyle (Law) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers for banking and finance law. He lives in Eureka, Mo. Timothy Casey (Law) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers for his work in insurance law. He lives in Farmington Hills, Mich. Carol (Mayer) Fiore (Parks) published her first book, Flight Through Fire. She lives in Loveland, Colo. Dr. Gerard Martin (Med) is chairman of the emergency medicine department at Henry Ford Hospital, and his wife, Dr. Catherine Nordby (Med), has a private dermatology practice. The couple lives in Grosse Pointe Park, Mich. Anthony R. Muschera (PH) celebrated 35 years of continuous service with the Department of Veterans Affairs. He is the executive assistant to the chief of staff of the North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System and is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. He lives in Gainesville, Fla. 1981 Bruce Friedman (Law) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers. He also was selected as the St. Louis-area family law Lawyer of the Year for 2014. Armida Guerrero-Galdeano (A&S ’81, Grad A&S ’84) retired from government employment and is living in Mexico City. Julie Fix Meyer (A&S ’81, Law ’84) joined the litigation practice group of Armstrong Teasdale. She lives in St. Louis. Joyce Slocum (Law) is president and CEO of Texas Public Radio. She lives in Dallas. James Stockberger (A&S ’81, Law ’88) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers. He lives in Ballwin, Mo. Timothy Trniecki (Law) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers. He lives in St. Louis. 1982 Barry Bernier (A&S) was elected Connecticut’s commander of the Disabled American Veterans Department for 2014-15. He lives in Norwich, Conn. Dr. Gary DiNezza (SW) is a practicing neuropsychologist in Buffalo, N.Y. He holds medical staff appointments to United Memorial Medical Center and Buffalo General Medical Center in the department of psychiatry and behavioral medicine. Jeff Hebrank (Law), partner with HeplerBroom, received the 2014 Distinguished Member Award from the Illinois Association of Defense Trial Counsel. He also was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers. He lives in Highland, Ill. Nancy Mogab (Law) received the Spurgeon Smithson Award from the Missouri Bar Foundation. She lives in St. Louis. Clay Railey (Grad) is the provost at Bucks County Community College in Newtown, Pa. George Von Stamwitz (Law) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers. He lives in St. Louis. 1983 Rev. Gary Brandt (Grad Cook) is pastor of First Lutheran Church in Ada, Okla. Patrick Connaghan (Law), probate commissioner for the 22nd Judicial Circuit, received the 2014 Judge Isabella Horton Grant Guardianship Award from the National College of Probate Judges. He lives in St. Louis. Tracey Elbein (Law) retired from government service after 30 years as a federal career law clerk to Judge Stephen N. Limbaugh Sr. and Judge Stephen N. Limbaugh Jr. She lives in St. Louis. Lynn Fuhler (Parks) is co-founder and vice president of TixClix, an online ticketing and registration website. She lives in Winston Salem, N.C. Cathy (Conran) Gilmore (A&S) co-authored a storybook, Easter Bunny’s AMAZING Day. She lives in Ellisville, Mo. Robert Maurer (Cook ’83, Law ’87) recently formed the Maurer Business Law firm. He lives in St. Louis. Michael O’Mara (A&S) is an international representative for the Plumbers, Pipefitters and Sprinkler Fitters Union and a councilman for the 4th District of St. Louis County. He lives in Florissant, Mo. John Simon (Cook ’83, Law ’86) was named by Best Lawyers as the 2015 Lawyer of the Year in St. Louis for product liability litigation-plaintiffs. 1984 Christine F. Miller (Law) was named among the 2014 Benchmark Litigation Top 250 Women in Litigation. She is a member of the technology, manufacturing and transportation industry group at Husch Blackwell. She lives in St. Louis. David Schapker (Grad Cook) is the chief financial officer of the National FFA Organization and National FFA Foundation. He lives in Indianapolis. Elise Vankavage (Law) received the American Bar Association’s 2014 Excellence in Animal Law Award. She is the former chair of the organization’s tort, trial and insurance practice section’s animal law committee. She lives in Collinsville, Ill. 1985 Jane Cohen (Law) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America in the area of franchise law by Best Lawyers. She also was appointed to serve as vice-chair for the MOBAR Property Law Committee. She lives in St. Louis. Patrick Hagerty (Law) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers for his work in personal injury litigation-plaintiff and railroad law. He lives in Kirkwood, Mo. Thomas Magee (Law) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers. He lives in St. Louis. Bernard D. Reams Jr. (Grad) was named distinguished professor of law at St. Mary’s University School of Law. He has been on faculty for 14 years and lives in San Antonio. Thomas E. Rutledge (A&S) wrote the article “A Corporation Has No Soul: The Business Entity Law Response to Challenges to the Contraceptive Mandate of the PPACA” that was published in the William and Mary Business Law Review. He is a member of Stoll Keenon Ogden and lives in Louisville, Ky. Stephen Werner (A&S ’85, Grad ’90) wrote a play, The Rum Luck of the Irish. He is a faculty member at SLU’s School for Professional Studies. 1986 Ann Cleeland (E&PS) retired from Visitation Academy, where she worked as a receptionist/ administrative assistant. She lives in Fenton, Mo. George Cox (Cook) earned a patent for a method to prevent identity theft by using facial biometrics. He lives in New York City. Jonathan Dalton (Law) has joined the law firm of Armstrong Teasdale. He also is mayor of Town and Country, Mo. Robert Delaney (A&S) is a vehicle service agent for Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Ellisville, Mo. Barbara Harris-Rice (PS) retired in 2007 after 25 years of service with the State of Missouri Department of Mental Health. She lives in St. Louis. Marilyn Pohlmeier (A&S) is semi-retired from religious education in parishes and now volunteers in prison ministries. She lives in St. Charles, Mo. James Reinert (Law) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers. He lives in St. Louis. Stephen Woodley (Law) was named a 2015 Best Lawyer in America by Best Lawyers. He lives in St. Louis. 1987 Tracey (Briggs) Calabrese (Law) was promoted to section chief of the general counsel section of the city attorney’s office for the city of Houston. Thomas Handel (A&S) is general manager of Meridian Medical Technologies Inc. He lives in Marriottsville, Md. Thomas B. Lewis (Law) joined the labor and employment practice of the law firm Stevens and Lee. He lives in Lawrenceville, N.J. Dr. Daniel McGuire (Med) is in a solo practice focused on adult spines and trauma. His wife, Dr. Andrea McGuire (Med), is president and chief operating officer of a small health insurance company. They live in Des Moines, Iowa. Thomas J. O’Toole Jr. (left) presents Martin Kaymer with the trophy at the 2014 U.S. Open at Pinehurst Resort. how I got here Thomas J. O’Toole Jr. President of the United States Golf Association (USGA) Partner in the law firm of Mickes Goldman O’Toole, LLC Copyright USGA/ Hunter Marti n clasnotes On Feb. 8, 2014, O’Toole became the 63rd president of the USGA. In 2005, he interviewed for the USGA executive committee but didn’t get the nomination. In 2007, he was nominated again, but then was diagnosed with prostate cancer. In 2008, he joined the executive committee. In 1991, he helped establish the first St. Louis Metropolitan Amateur Golf Championship, which allowed public-course and private-club players to compete. A year later, he founded the Metropolitan Amateur Golf Association, the first in the region to welcome public facilities as members and serve all golfers without discrimination. He headed to Minnesota to play college hockey but didn’t make the team. After a semester, he returned home and enrolled at Saint Louis University. O’Toole said he “was catapulted into the game” after his family joined Westborough Country Club. O’Toole (A&S ’79, Law ’86) grew up in South St. Louis, the son of a World War II veteran who was awarded a Purple Heart. His family moved to St. Louis County when he was a freshman at St. Louis University High School, where he played tennis, hockey and football — but not golf (although he’d been playing it since he was 5). As a teen, O’Toole started caddying for Jim Holtgrieve, another Westborough member who emerged as one of the country’s best amateur golfers. The two went to the 1978 U.S. Open, the Masters in 1983 and ’84, and more. From 1976-79, he was the equipment manager for the SLU hockey team, which he jokingly called his favorite job ever: “But seriously, Bill Selman, the coach … Other than my father, he was the most influential person in my life. He reared me, gave me responsibility and made me accountable.” O’Toole earned his law degree from SLU and ran for state representative in http://cdm17321.contentdm.oclc.org/cdm/ref/collection/alumni/id/461

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