OA SPRING-SUMMER 2025 MAGAZINE - with links

Spring/Summer 2025/Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College Magazine

First Doctoral Graduates Celebrated at the 191 st Commencement

A YEAR OF TRANSFORMATION AND TRIUMPH AT THE WOODS A note from President Brennan J. Randolph

ONYX Anneau SPRING/SUMMER 2025

Vol. 99

No. 2

Brennan J. Randolph President Catherine Mickey Saunders ’98 Editor in Chief Vice President for Advancement BJ Riley ’16, ‘23MLD, ‘24MBA Editorial Director Associate Vice President for Strategic Marketing and Community Relations Elizabeth “Izzy” Reel ’21, ‘25MLD Managing Editor Advancement Officer Kristy Fry Creative Director Director of Creative Services

ON THE COVER

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College awarded its first doctoral degrees on Saturday, May 10, 2025, during the 191st Commencement Ceremony. Graduates of the Ph.D. in Global Leadership Program receiving their doctoral degrees were (L to R) Karen Dyer ’25Ph.D.; Kourtney Barrett ’25Ph.D., leadership program specialist to the Dean at SMWC; Christina “Christy” Pearison ’19, ’20MLD, ’25Ph.D. and Meredith Williams ’25Ph.D., assistant professor of business at SMWC.

CONTENTS

2025 Faculty Awards 4

Building a Culture of Care: Mental

As Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College approaches its 185th anniversary, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable year we’ve just concluded—a year filled with growth, resilience and celebration. Each August, as I join our dedicated faculty and staff in welcoming students to campus on Move-In Day, I’m filled with anticipation. Watching students arrive on The Avenue, I often wonder how their lives will be transformed over the next four years. What discoveries will they make? What passions will they uncover? As they find their voices, what tone will they carry, and what values will shape their perspectives? I also recognize the mix of excitement and nervousness in the eyes of parents as they help their children take this next step. It’s a powerful moment—one that never loses its magic. Just a few weeks ago, I had the privilege of handing diplomas to the very students we welcomed in 2021. When they arrived, the impact of COVID-19 was still fresh, and none of us knew exactly how it would shape their college experience. Together, we adapted. Together, we redefined what “normal” could look like. And together, we grew. Commencement Day was a celebration of that growth with a record number of graduates. The arena was filled with proud families and friends, all gathered to honor the achievements of our graduates. It was also a historic moment for SMWC, as we awarded diplomas to our first-ever doctoral graduates—trailblazers who earned their Ph.D. in Global Leadership. Their perseverance and dedication are a testament to the spirit of The Woods. We also celebrated the first graduates of our innovative Paramedic Science to BSN program. This fully online pathway allows working paramedics to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing while continuing to serve their communities. For many, it was a dream they never thought possible—until now. None of these milestones would be possible without the unwavering commitment of our faculty and staff. Despite daily challenges, they show up with purpose and passion, always placing our students at the heart of their work. Their dedication is why so many students describe SMWC in one word: “Home.” As we look ahead to our 185th year, I am filled with gratitude—for our students, our faculty and staff, and the enduring mission that guides us for students to receive a values-based education. The Woods continues to be a place where transformation happens, where dreams are realized and where every voice matters.

Health & Wellness 14

Nursing Pinning Ceremony & Commencement 8

The Art of Building a Culture of Philanthropy 18

Please send correspondence to: Office of Advancement PO Box 70 Saint Mary of the Woods, IN 47876-0070 Phone: 812-535-5270 E-mail: alumni@smwc.edu © 2025 by Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College Printed in the U.S.A. All rights reserved. Every effort has been made to ensure that all information contained in this magazine is accurate.

2024-2025 Year in Review 12

INSIDE EVERY ISSUE Woods Today....................................... 11 Nota Bene............................................. 22

CLASS NOTES ARE ONLINE smwc.edu/class-notes/

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Forging Futures: SMWC and Marian University Launch Dual-Degree Engineering and Medical School Fast Track

In a bold step toward expanding academic opportunities and career pathways for students, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) has announced a transformative partnership with Marian University in Indianapolis. This collaboration introduces two new articulation agreements—one in engineering and another in medicine—designed to empower students with streamlined, high-impact At the heart of the partnership is a 3+2 dual-degree engineering program that allows students to earn two bachelor’s degrees in just five years: a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from SMWC and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Marian University’s E. S. Witchger School of Engineering. educational experiences. Engineering a Dual Future

Congratulations!

SMWC President Brennan J. Randolph, SMWC Provost Janet Clark, Ph.D., Marian University Chief Academic Officer Binhq Tran, Ph.D. and Marian University President Daniel J. Elsener.

Students will begin their academic journey at SMWC, where they’ll build a strong foundation in mathematics and the liberal arts. After three years, qualified students will transition to Marian University to complete two years of specialized engineering coursework in civil, mechanical, biomedical or chemical engineering. “This is a natural fit for SMWC and Marian University,” said SMWC President Brennan J. Randolph. “As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, agreements like this enable smaller institutions to expand learning opportunities for their students. We are excited to work with President Elsener and Marian University.” Marian University President Daniel J. Elsener echoed the sentiment: “These partnerships reflect our shared commitment to student-centered innovation and to preparing future leaders for high-impact careers critical to Indiana’s future. This mission-centered collaboration brings Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College and Marian University together to better serve students and the state through an education that is illumined by the light of faith and grounded in gospel values.” A Seamless Pathway to Medical School In addition to the engineering program, SMWC and Marian University’s Tom and Julie Wood College of Osteopathic Medicine have launched a second articulation agreement that opens doors for aspiring physicians. The agreement offers two distinct tracks for SMWC biology-preprofessional graduates: a Fast-Track Interview and an Early Decision option. Each year, up to five students per track who meet the academic and experiential requirements will be guaranteed an interview and receive an expedited admission decision. This initiative provides a clear and supportive pathway for students pursuing a medical degree—without the uncertainty of navigating the application process alone. “In the past, students who wanted to pursue a medical degree after earning their preprofessional degree at The Woods had to search for their next destination,” said Dr. Janet Clark, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “With this agreement, students will work with advisors from both institutions to prepare a competitive application to a top ranked osteopathic medical school right here in Indiana.” Shared Values, Shared Vision Both SMWC and Marian University are rooted in Catholic traditions and a commitment to liberal arts education. These shared values form the foundation of a partnership that prioritizes student success, ethical leadership and service to the community. Dr. Clark praised the faculty of SMWC’s Department of Science and Mathematics for aligning the curriculum to support the engineering agreement. “This will ensure a smooth transition for students as they pursue their engineering degree at Marian. We are excited to offer our students this expanded opportunity.” President Randolph emphasized the broader impact: “This dual-degree program offers students a unique opportunity to engage with both campus communities, fostering deeper strengths, confidence and career mobility in their chosen field. With Marian’s state-of-the-art engineering center, cutting-edge labs and collaborative learning spaces, our students will be well-prepared for the future.”

The faculty and staff of the Ph.D. in Global Leadership program celebrated the first doctoral graduates during Commencement 2025. (L to R front) Karen Dyer ’25Ph.D.; Dan Hiltz, Ph.D., adjunct faculty; Lamprini Pantazi, Ph.D., MBA, MS, dean of the division of Business & Leadership; Eric Hubbard, Ph.D., ’12MLD, director of Master’s Programs in Business & Leadership; Kourtney Barrett ’25Ph.D.; Rusty Tryon, DMIN, MLS, director of the library and associate professor; Christina “Christy” Pearison ’19, ’20MLD, ’25Ph.D.; Kimberly LaComba, Ph.D., director of Ph.D. in Global Leadership Program; Meredith Williams ’25Ph.D. and Jennie Mitchell, Ph.D., MBA, emeritus professor.

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FAC U LT Y AWA R D S Each spring, faculty awards are announced with great excitement and enthusiasm. The 2025 ceremony was no different. Seven faculty members were recognized for their outstanding achievements, with Janet Clark, Ph.D., provost/executive vice president for academic affairs, hosting the event. Awards announced were the Alumni Faculty Leadership Award, the Annual Excellence in Assessment Award, the Outstanding Teaching Award for Adjunct Faculty and the Pomeroy Awards for Faculty Excellence – one for Service and one for Teaching. The Sister Mary Joseph Pomeroy Faculty Excellence Award was established in 1990 through the generosity of Mary Ellen Sweeney Haggerty from the Class of 1942 and her husband, Lawrence Haggerty. This award honors outstanding faculty achievements. It is named after a highly respected professor of English at The Woods, known for exemplifying the highest ideals of teaching, scholarship and service, and who is also the namesake of our athletic teams. Since 1992, the Alumni Faculty Leadership and Service Award has honored faculty at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College who demonstrate outstanding leadership benefiting our students and the greater campus community through their service.

2025 Pomeroy Faculty Excellence Award for Service Crystal White, DNP, FNP-C, RN – Director of Master of Science in Nursing Program

• Chair of Graduate Council, Curriculum Chair for Graduate Nursing, Co-director of the C.A.M.P. at The Woods and President of the SMWC chapter of Sigma Theta Tau • Servant leader engaged as active member of Reimagine Wellness Committee with a focus on faculty and staff wellness • Coordinated study abroad opportunities and local community health events, specifically leading a group of graduate nursing students to Mexico, serving individuals with health fairs, patient care and education • Serves as a parish nurse and music minister at her church

White with Provost/Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, Janet Clark, Ph.D.

2025 Pomeroy Faculty Excellence Award for Teaching Douglas Sperry, Ph.D. – Professor of Psychology

2025 Alumni Faculty Leadership Award Douglas Sperry, Ph.D. – Professor of Psychology

• Instructs at undergraduate and graduate levels with contributions to the Ph.D. in Global Leadership program, the Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, as well as campus and Woods Online • Embraced AI as a tool for deeper learning and rebuilt his courses around authentic engagement and critical thinking • Designed mini-experiments, integrated AI-powered research assignments and eliminated some tests in favor of student-driven demonstrations of learning • Enthusiastic mentor and guides students through ambitious independent research projects helping many to showcase their work at academic symposia, state and international conferences Sperry with Provost/Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, Janet Clark, Ph.D.

• Student nomination that read, “In every respect, this faculty member demonstrates exceptional leadership both inside and outside the classroom. This individual has left indelible marks on my growth in both my academic and interpersonal education, offering sagacious guidance and teaching experience from their own expertise.” • Served as Chair and Co-chair of the Rank, Promotion and Tenure Committee • Served on several task forces such as Conduct Board, Grievance Committee Pool, Higher Learning Commission accreditation teams and several faculty search committees • Leads the Dr. Theresa L. Gioannini Student Symposium

Sperry with Vice President for Advancement, Catherine Mickey Saunders ’98.

2025 Excellence in Assessment Award Rusty Tryon, DMin, MLS – Director of Library Services, Associate Professor

Honorable Mentions for 2025 Pomeroy Faculty Excellence for Teaching Tricia Pierce, DHSc, ACSM-CEP – Associate Professor of Exercise Science Keeley Cleghorn, Ph.D. – Assistant Professor of Biology Pierce and Cleghorn with Provost/Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, Janet Clark, Ph.D.

• Chair of the General Education Committee and led implementation of the fully developed assessment plan • Improved data collection and refined program evaluation methods • Led initiatives such as Project SAILS, the WC400 capstone rubric and faculty development sessions • Dedication to student success, faculty collaboration and institutional improvement

Tryon with Provost/Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, Janet Clark, Ph.D.

2025 Outstanding Adjunct Faculty Award Jennie Mitchell, Ph.D. – Emeritus Professor, Adjunct Faculty

Spring Sabbatical Sherry Schnake, Ph.D. – Professor of Psychology

• Taught at The Woods for 24 years before retiring in 2013 • Three-time Pomeroy Award winner • Nominated by graduate students because of her focus on research courses and data visualization courses • 2023-24 winner of PALSave Open Educator Award by the Private Academic Library Network of Indiana (PALNI)

Center: Sherry Schnake, Ph.D. L to R: Cleghorn, White, Pierce, Tryon, Schnake, Mitchell, Clark and Sperry

Mitchell with Provost/Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, Janet Clark, Ph.D.

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Ring Day 2025 “Through Every Mile ... Together”

Beth Herzog Michel ’94, ’09MLD, vice chair of the board of trustees, gave the keynote address.

Scan to view full photo albums from Ring Day.

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NURSING PINNING

CEREMONY 2025

COMMENCEMENT

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THE WOODS TODAY

The Woods — so much more than its buildings. It’s the people. The bond between alumni, faculty, staff and students.

“As an international student, it was quite daunting at first being so far from home and transitioning from a massive city like London to a small community that we have here at The Woods. However, the moment I stepped foot on campus, I was welcomed with open arms, and thanks to this, the transition could not have been smoother.”

I first learned about The Woods when Coach Ron Kiernicki, head men’s and women’s soccer coach at SMWC, recruited me and introduced me to the College. As an international student, many factors went into my decision of where to attend college. Thankfully, the SMWC website provided a lot of insight and pictures of the beautiful campus and the community, so I knew what to expect when I arrived at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College. It automatically drew me in and ticked all the boxes. As an international student, it was quite daunting at first, being so far from home and transitioning from a massive city like London to the small community that we have here at The Woods. However, the moment I stepped on campus, I was welcomed with open arms, and thanks to this, the transition could not have been smoother. From my teammates on the soccer team to the wonderful faculty, I felt at home very quickly. The faculty, especially in the kinesiology program, has helped me greatly with my education and organization, especially since the education system is vastly different from England’s. So far, life in The Woods has been fantastic! As a sophomore, I have been here for almost two years now, and it feels like I have truly found a home, despite being far from home. I have thoroughly enjoyed life as a student-athlete, from traveling to different states on away days to expanding my knowledge in my majors and pursuing the education I desire. Double majoring in psychology and kinesiology seemed like a daunting experience, but thanks to the support of my academic advisor and mentor, along with the brilliant faculty and staff, it has been extremely interesting, and I look forward to continuing in these two fields. The classes within these majors have been perfect so far in helping me set the

It’s community. It’s commitment. It’s connection.

With every tassel turned, the legacy continues.

Help ensure that others will have the opportunity to experience the bond of The Woods.

right path to pursue the career I want to take in the future. The Woods has brought me many memorable moments as a student-athlete, many of which stem from my time on the soccer team. The most important personally is finishing at the top of the assist leaderboard in our conference. Another memory outside of sports was sharing my culture during International Education Week, which was a very enjoyable day. Not only did it feel good to share information about my home, but it also made me feel like I was contributing to the school and part of our wonderful community. Attending SMWC was the best decision I’ve made in my life. It has been everything I hoped for and more, from the athletics to the education to the warmth and closeness of this

Give today. giving.smwc.edu

College’s community. Marc —Marc Valderrama Psychology and Kinesiology Double Major London, England

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of the Immaculate Conception.

May 9, 2025:

The Nursing Pinning Ceremony was

held in the Church

January 10, 2025: SMWC welcomed a new cohort of students to Paramedic Science to BSN bootcamp. FEBRUARY

March 19, 2025: SMWC Presidential Corps members attended the Independent Colleges of Indiana

May 10, 2025: SMWC held its 191st Commencement Ceremonies.

April 2, 2025: SMWC students were inducted into Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society.

March 28, 2025: The College honored eight students during the International Ring Ceremony.

Student Lobby Day at the Indiana Statehouse.

JANUARY 2025

April 24, 2025: The Student Counseling and Wellness Center invited local college communities to participate in the Take Back The Night Walk. MAY May 2, 2025: SMWC held the annual Pomeroy Classic golf

MARCH February 6, 2024: SMWC held the 10th Woods Giving Day – WGD-X —raising more than $1 million from 1266 donors. March 4, 2025: White Coat Ceremony

March 29, 2025: SMWC ring recipients filed into the historic Harvey Auditorium in the APRIL

outing at Idle Creek Golf Course.

of the nursing program.

May 7, 2025: SMWC held its annual Oak Leaf Ceremony in the McMahon Ballroom in Le Fer Hall.

participants and faculty members

Conservatory of Music to become the 103rd group to receive the iconic SMWC ring.

October 22, 2024: The Sisters of Providence blessed President Randolph. October 24,2024: To celebrate the College’s Foundation Day, students, October 25, 2024:

September 30. 2024: To kick-off spirit week, Campus Life hosted a pep rally for all students, faculty and staff.

December 9, 2024: Faculty, staff and seniors who are a part of the

12 AUGUST 2024 2024/2025 YEAR IN REVIEW August 9, 2024: Brennan J. Randolph was named the 17th president of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College.

November 12, 2024: SMWC welcomed a delegation from Ukraine to celebrate a memorandum of understanding between

Department of Equine Studies gathered for the annual equine caroling ride.

August 16, 2024: SMWC leadership, faculty and staff welcomed the Class of 2028 with 240 new students to campus, one of the largest classes in history. SEPTEMBER September 5, 2024: First-year students

SMWC and the Zviahel Medical College of the Zhytomyr oblast (province), located in northern Ukraine.

OCTOBER

December 16, 2024:

November 18, 2024: Students, faculty and staff gathered for the kick-off to International Education Week, The Woods World Fair. DECEMBER

The first graduates of the

into Presidential Corps.

NOVEMBER

SMWC inducted new members

December 10, 2024:

Toyota of Terre Haute.

Paramedic to BSN program were pinned.

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SMWC’s Light Your Way Christmas Parade presented by Thompson’s Honda and

during the Acorn Ceremony - a standing tradition since the late 1990s.

faculty and staff gathered in the Harvey Auditorium to reflect and dive into the foundation of SMWC.

Building a Culture of Care: How SMWC is Prioritizing Student Mental Health and Wellness By BJ Riley ’16, ’23MLD, ’24MBA Associate Vice President for Strategic Marketing and Community Relations

Mental health support is a top priority for students when choosing a college, and according to some studies, 60% of prospective students rate mental health services as a crucial factor in their college decision. Students sometimes rank this as the most critical aspect of a college’s wellness support, above dining, fitness and physical health. Another study shows that almost half, 46%, of students entering college have a diagnosed mental health condition. Melissa Grinslade, MSW, LCSW, recognized these challenges when she was appointed campus counselor in August 2023. When she arrived on campus, she was a department of one. She knew that there was a lot of work to do, but first, she had to figure out how to create a list of priorities while addressing the vast counseling needs on campus. “I particularly love college counseling because it is such a pivotal and important time for our students. We get to help them not only be successful in school but also gain skills to be successful once they leave.” In spring 2021, Lilly Endowment Inc. announced an award of $8 million to establish MINDfull College

Connections (MCC), a not-for-profit consortium comprising SMWC, Rose Hulman Institute of Technology, and DePauw University. The objective was to expand mental health resources for consortium college students, creating more opportunities than the institutions could do independently. The goal was to establish and share clinical services, peer education and preventative care across the campuses. Grinslade immediately dug in and needed to identify the needs of students. She used a Healthy Minds survey to collect data to pinpoint the needs. She shared, “The results were a bit surprising, showing that the students struggled with higher-than-average percentages of depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation.” The MCC grant allowed Grinslade to expand the staff, and she brought on Sara Julian, MSW, LCSW, in September 2023 as the MCC campus counselor to assist, as well as Emma Campbell ’13, ’21MLD, in January 2024 as the MCC mental health educator. Additionally, the grant allowed Grinslade to envision a space more conducive to a comprehensive mental health center

rather than the spread-out offices they all occupied. Last summer, she and the staff relocated from Le Fer Hall to the second floor of the Conservatory of Music, transforming rooms that were previously used as storage spaces into welcoming areas for students. The area became the Student Counseling and Wellness Center. The space redesign emphasizes the confidentiality of their work, along with an inviting atmosphere that fosters comfort with students to fulfill their counseling needs, as well as relaxation and gathering. This is all part of the strategic plan that Grinslade developed, based on the results of student surveys, to serve immediate needs for counseling while helping students build positive mental health. A crucial aspect of the plan is collaborating with students to develop skills that enable them to navigate life's challenges, thereby maintaining a healthy balance in terms of mental, emotional and physical wellness. In the short time that Grinslade has been at The Woods, with the help of her staff, she has been able to expand services from just counseling to a focus

on prevention and education. Her department has been actively involved in helping faculty and staff understand how to support students in crisis. “This has worked well and paid off with a noticeable increase from the referral process. The number of students that come for counseling has increased, but that is a reflection of education and training.” Grinslade added, “The need has always been happening. Creating awareness is drawing more students to our services.” The staff has increased the number of opportunities for students to engage through activities conducted throughout the year. “We create interventions through education and prevention, and the activities are intentional. We don’t want people to come and see us for therapy, but rather we want them to have skills to navigate life challenges,” she said about the numerous activities. These activities include a Health and Wellness Fair, several Canines for Christ events featuring therapy dogs, Destress events held just before finals week and the Day of Play on Study Monday of finals week. “This may look like just a fun program, but it is an intervention to

create a neurobiological impact when engaging in fun to release ‘feel good’ chemicals to reduce stress, which helps with concentration and memory,” Grinslade said. Other events included the Be Safe, Be Brave program, providing education and conversations about healthy relationships; the Take Back The Night event, bringing out more than 70 students during Sexual Assault Awareness month; and a partnership with Campus Ministry to host the Sound of the Spirit Event in the Conservatory of Music for emotional wellness and spirituality. But Grinslade and her staff are not just waiting for students to come to them. This past academic year, she recruited five peer educators, who were student workers, to help raise awareness about the mental health and wellness center. She has developed presentations that staff can use in classrooms, and they set up tables at various student events to raise awareness. The peer educators are assisting with outreach events, addressing educational needs, and managing social media. “They are

vital in helping us to understand the mental health needs on campus further, plus they bring a youth edge that is important.” The center has achieved numerous accomplishments in a relatively short time. What started as one person in August 2023 has expanded to include another counselor, a mental health educator, a part-time psychiatrist and five peer educators. She also has plans to bring on interns who are studying for their master’s as well as bachelor’s degrees. “We accomplish our goals through the support that we get from faculty, staff and students to make what the center is now, happen. We all feel that the campus has come together to support what we are doing.” Photos - Left: Day of Play on Study Monday Top L to R: Sound of the Spirit Event, Be Safe, Be Brave program, Counselors - Sara Julian, MSW, LCSW, Melissa Grinslade, MSW, LCSW and Emma Campbell ‘13, ‘21MLD, Bottom L to R: Canines for Christ and Take Back the Night Event.

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THEN AND NOW...

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Culture of Philanthropy The Art of Building a

By Elizabeth “Izzy” Reel ’21, ’25MLD Advancement Officer

An institution born of sacrifice, the Sisters of Providence did all they could to establish a well-grounded academy of education for students to grow, prosper and aspire higher. From saving and returning a portion of their earnings to help construct the buildings we cherish today; the Sisters instilled a deeply rooted culture of giving back to Saint Mary-of-the Woods College. After two centuries,

our rapid campus enrollment increase in a short period of time. In addition to aging and deficient facilities, the need to keep pace with the annual operating demands of a larger student population mandated this aggressive goal. The Woods Fund goal has been $1-$1.1 million for almost a decade. “Although successfully met each year,

well on our way to exceeding the $3 million goal presented to the Woods community in July of 2025,” Saunders said. Through a combination of annual initiatives and gifts throughout the year, what seemed impossible is within reach. There are many ways our alumni and donors help The Woods. Since 2021, the College has received more

elevators, addressing chiller and boiler issues to better regulate building temperatures, and repairing plaster, painting and carpeting, among other tasks. Atall times, the student experience drives decisions. President Brennan J. Randolph is appreciative of the ongoing generosity of alumni. “I hear so many donors say that they give to the College to ensure that the students of today and tomorrow can have the same great experience that they had when they attended. I appreciate their ongoing efforts.” Woods Giving Day (WGD) has significantly contributed to fostering an appreciation for alumni giving among the current student population. For a decade, the advancement team has involved students in this critically important fundraising initiative for SMWC. May 2025 graduate, Allison Cloutier, from Terre Haute, Indiana, volunteered for the first time as a student caller in February. “Being a part of WGD was eye-opening. I enjoyed talking with alumni donors and seeing everything come together that day. Knowing more than 1,200 donors made gifts and pledges to support our school was inspiring,” Allison reflected. She continued to share that she felt proud to have contributed to the success of our tenth WGD by

securing gifts and making her own! A focal point of building a culture of philanthropy on campus has been emphasizing that each gift makes its own impact. Whether we receive a five-dollar gift, a $50,000 gift, or a million-dollar estate gift, the challenge is breaking through the stigma of fundraising. Saunders shared, “One of our main objectives as a fundraising team is reassuring our alumni and friends that every gift matters and every ounce of giving makes a difference. Whether you’re giving financially, giving your expertise or your time, it all comes together to foster a culture of philanthropy.” Above: A few of the students, employees and alumni who volunteered to call alumni and friends during the tenth annual Woods Giving Day, known as WGD-X, on February 4, 2025. a space is named to honor their philanthropy and contribute to a giving culture by surrounding future donors with those who have given before them. Today’s Woods students and visitors enjoy many campus places named in honor of those who have given generously, including but not limited to those in the Philanthropic Named Spaces list. The generosity of donors leaves an enduring mark, especially when

PHILANTHROPIC NAMED SPACES Rooney Center Julia Rooney Ladner, 1951 (RIP) and Frank Ladner (RIP) Mari Hulman George School of Equine Studies Mari Hulman George (RIP) and Elmer George (RIP) Butler Classroom Nancy Butler Bruck, 1969 and Morgan Bruck Club ’64 & Studio ’64 The Class of 1964 McMahon Ballroom Anita Tiberi McMahon, 1961 and William McMahon (RIP) Hamilton Arena Susan Eichmuller Hamilton, 1966 and Wayne Hamilton PK Parlor Margaret “Peggy” Kelly Deputy, 1964 (RIP) and Tom Deputy Ariens Atrium Mary Clare Murphy Ariens, 1955 and Michael Ariens (RIP) Schmidt Hallway Marcia Reder Schmidt, 1972 and Jerry Schmidt Oakley Student Center “OSC” Hollie and Anna Oakley Foundation Hulman Hall Mary Fendrich Hulman, 1923 Academy (RIP) and Anton Hulman (RIP) Collective gifts from alumni and friends to build or renovate spaces in the name of those later honored include:

than $3.2 million in estate gifts, making a meaningful impact on the College. “When we receive significant, unrestricted estate gifts, it gives us the opportunity to address our growing pains,” she explained. Saunders described that alumni legacy gifts at SMWC pave the way for future generations. In addition to building our endowment and providing access to education through endowed scholarships, perhaps the most critical need

SMWC continues to instill its values and culture of philanthropy in students. “As we grow, we understand that our alumni are investing in the future of the College, likewise, current students are our future investors. It is imperative that we expose students to the generosity of our alumni and its impact on their Woods experience so students may begin to

“Being a part of WGD was eye-opening. I enjoyed talking with alumni donors and seeing everything come together that day.” — Allison Cloutier ’25

understand how they too can effect change on future generations one day,” said Catherine Mickey Saunders ’98, vice president for advancement. At the start of the academic year, a bold challenge was placed before alumni and friends of the College. This year’s $3 million Woods Fund goal was announced to address many needs created as a result of what this administration has deemed, “growing pains.” They are born from the accelerated needs resulting from

the College needs to bravely ask for what is needed for today’s students,” said Saunders. “This will secure the future of SMWC by stabilizing our giving foundation. Moreover, it builds the culture of philanthropy, teaching our next generation of donors their role in supporting future Woods students through modeling.” As the College nears the end of the 2024-25 fiscal year, the advancement team is eager to celebrate the success of this year’s Woods Fund. “We are

addressed by unrestricted estate gifts is deferred maintenance and the funding of physical plant needs. “The improvement of our physical campus is vital to the continued success of the College. As stewards of The Woods, today’s administration understands it is our responsibility to fortify our historic campus, while making it relevant for today’s student,” Saunders commented. Projects range from updating plumbing in Le Fer and Guerin Halls to installing new

Jeanne Knoerle Sports and Recreation Center

Marie Brendan Harvey, SP, 1951 Auditorium

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ALUMNI NOTA BENE MARRIAGES

Carol Diltz Bauer ’60: September 14, 2024. Sheila Rooney Funk ’60: August 12, 2024. Mother of Kelly Funk ’98 . Cynthia Boyd Gaughan ’60: December 26, 2023. Eileen Moran Rose ’60: August 14, 2024. Joan Mary Schaefer, SP ’62: March 20, 2025. Judith Holahan ’63: March 21, 2025. Marilyn Metzger Kearns ’63: March 18, 2025. Ella Jean Marsh, DO ’63: September 27, 2024. Patricia Nemec ’63: February 11, 2025. Sister of Anna Nemec ’68 (deceased). Rosemary Lawler Wong ’63: January 21, 2025. Sister of Christine Lawler Nagle ’61 (deceased). Patricia Krizmis Bath ’64: October 11, 2022. Linda Lorey Hopf ’64: September 1, 2024. Cousin of Janet Hopf Wells ’60 (deceased). Constance Kramer, SP ’64: January 30, 2025. Sister of Mary Kramer Leonard ’52 (deceased), Susan Kramer Devlin ’54 (deceased), Anne Kramer Nanh ’55 (deceased), Karen Kramer Baker ’59 (deceased) and Julie Kramer, SP ’62 (deceased). Aunt of Mary Leonard Fox ’79 and Catherine Baker Spock ’89 . Mamie Madge ’64: October 20, 2024. Dorothea McIntyre ’64: March 2, 2024. Mary Margaret Monks ’64: April 18, 2025. Margaret Ann Mathews O’Neill ’64: February 12, 2025. Patricia Mercer Stanek ’64: December 12, 2023. Sister of Irene Mercer Lolans ’66 . Theresa Clare Carr, SP ’65: May 5, 2025. Katherine Roenitz Chesebro ’65: February 18, 2025. Daughter of Josephine Knauf Roenitz ’36 (deceased). Sister of Jo Ellen Roenitz Gerend ’62 (deceased), Christine Roenitz ’68 and Gretchen Gerdes ’76 . Niece of Margaret Reiss Testwuide ’35 (deceased) and Helene Knauf O’Malley ’41 (deceased). Aunt of Elizabeth Gerend Gotwald ’90 and Jennifer Roenitz Brech ’92 . Carolyn Dunn McEwen ’65: November 6, 2023. Sister of Barbara Dunn Mullins ’68 . Susan Walker McGee ’65: December 16, 2024. Charlene Zech Gleason ’66: Daughter of Emily Kohl Zech ’43 (deceased). Daughter-in-law of Mary Jane Harrigan Gleason ’39 (deceased). Sister of Kathleen Zech Markey ’67 . Kathleen Winter Pedersen ’66: February 4, 2025. Katherine Kelly Hoffman ’67: December 18, 2024. Sister of Jenny Kelly Frank ’76 and Julie Kelly Miller ’81 . Mother of Laura Hoffman Lakstins ’91 . Andre Panepinto, SP ’67: January 12, 2025. Carol Passmore ’67: December 4, 2024. Maria Gayle Anthony ’68: February 21, 2021. Jeannette Norfray Weimer ’68: November 9, 2024. Sally Gross Blodgett Wolfe ’70: December 17, 2024. Marion Stamm Breza ‘74: January 19, 2025. Sister of Hannah-Jayne Stamm ’67 (deceased). Barbara Nevins Kelleher ’74: May 9, 2025. Carol Ousky Bodie ’75: July 25, 2019. Sandra Johnston Andersen ’76: October 11, 2024. Joan T. Fitzpatrick ’76: May 18, 2024. Nancy Von der Schmidt Primus ’76: September 8, 2024. Frances Sobotka Allibone ’77: August 16, 2024.

Mary Margaret Lesko ’78: September 5, 2023. Georgia McIntyre ’78: September 10, 2024. Mary Kay Fratoe ’80: January 24, 2025. Carolyn Boehnlein Parrish ’80: July 5, 2023. Karen Svendsen Werner ’80: August 14, 2024. Virginia Hays Miller ’81: October 27, 2024. Jencie Smith Butcher ’82: January 7, 2022. Marianne Caprino ’83: August 7, 2020. Barbara Baldwin Huffman ’83: February 17, 2024. Marjorie Herren Donnelly ’84: August 26, 2018. Victoria Gasche Lannie ’85, ’88G: May 17, 2023. Rosemarie Belna Adkins ’88: November 28, 2024. Joyce Titus Gardinier ’88: Decemer 14, 2020. Carol Hurst ’88: November 21, 2024. Hilary Leidolf Lohrman ’89: October 1, 2024. Patricia Curl Roush ’89: January 16, 2025. Sister of Mary Jean Curl Magill ’49 (deceased), Peggy Curl Doak ’57 and Carolyn Curl Harmon ’61 (deceased). Aunt of Margaret Harmon Pena ’86 and Julie Harmon Benning ’89 . Grandmother of Emilee Roush Ritter ’23 . Marcella Herman, OSF ’90G: June 13, 2024. Gretchen Proos Thomas ’91: September 30, 2020. Jacqueline F. Capelle, OSF ’92G: February 5, 2017. Joyce Hubbard Ciyou ’93: December 3, 2022. Mother of Elizabeth Ciyou-Alee ’99, ’11G Mary Povelones Harris ’93: March 25, 2023. Deacon Richard Shewman ’93G: April 3, 2025. Joyce Griffith Tribby ’93: October 7, 2023. Barbara Rieli Facemyer ’94: September 18, 2023. Mary Elizabeth Weyer Stein ’94: August 21. 2024. Tammy Stott Frost ’96: March 29, 2025. Mary Catherine Glatz ’96, ’04G: July 2, 2024. Deacon Paul Iwanksi ’01G: February 9, 2023. Sheila Sonner Culp ’02: April 27, 2023. Patricia Case O’Driscoll ’02: April 19, 2025. Mary Anne Surby Dowding ’03: October 18, 2021. Janis Horn Ferguson ’03: May 26, 2024. Michael Rydock ’03G: November 18, 2024. Husband of Berna Rydock ’03G. Brandy Rigsby Harper ’04: February 20, 2025. Mary Langford, CDP ’05G: February 23, 2025. Deacon Michael A. Johnson ’06G: April 3, 2025. John J. Kominkiewicz ’09G: August 2, 2023. Josephine A. Showalter, SP ’09G: July 26, 2024. Anne Marie Jay ’10G: August 17, 2024. Carrie Andrews ’13: November 2, 2024. Mother of Felica Andrews Hole ’16 . Candra Nelson ’14: September 7, 2024.

Nancy McGuire Keller ’75 was married to Glenn Keller on January 11, 2025. Kelsey Rosselli Knight ’13 was married to Keaton Knight on April 25, 2025. Olivia Wells America ’20 was married to Jacob America on September 21, 2024.

REUNION 2025

BIRTHS

& Forever POMEROYS Woodsies

Erin Pugh Lucas ’11 and Tyler - boy, Graham Tyler - August 31, 2024.

DEATHS

Marian Brady, SP: November 3, 2024. Trustee Emeritus Muriel Schwarz Maher ’46: February 28, 2024. Monica Murphy Bossenmaier ’47: October 14, 2024. Rosemary Jackson Hughes ’47: September 13, 2024. Marie Merker Walsh ’48: January 27, 2025. Mary Gladys Nardine Wheeler ’48: September 11, 2024. Mother of Lisa Wheeler Lewis ’81 . Grace Hake McClorey ’49: September 16, 2024. Sister of Jeanne Hake Obermeyer ’54 (deceased). Laura Pusey Gibson ’50: December 10, 2024. Lillian Hannan Jacob ’50: June 28, 2023. Sister of Anna Louise Hannan ’48 (deceased) and Patricia Hannan Sermersheim ’49 (deceased). Sister-in law of Martha Jacob, OSU ’57 . Rosella Nurrenbern Meny ’50: March 15, 2025. Catherine Pert Foley ’51: July 28, 2024. Joan St. Cyr Harmeier ’52: August 28, 2024. Mother of Jodi Harmeier ’86. Sister of Ruth St. Cyr Luttmer ’52 (deceased). Mary Jane Kleindorfer, HVM ’52: May 20, 2024. Mary Lou Gehring Kretschmer ’52: February 25, 2025. Marilyn Aman Little ’52: November 25, 2023. Peggy St. Charles Bonomo ’54: May 12, 2022. Sister of Donna St. Charles Gerrits ’52 (deceased). Sarah McCoy Harrington ’54: November 16, 2024. Samuella Dingley Emrich ’55: May 21, 2024. Sister of Margaret Dingley Sperry ’44 (deceased). Joan Heath Fortner ’55: November 10, 2024. Peggy Lipstreu Hunnicutt ’55: February 20, 2024. Joanne Coughlin Ehrman ’56: September 18, 2024. Margaret Kaline Niebrugge ’56: January 15, 2025. Judith Unruh Neely ’58: February 14, 2025. Sister of Andrea Unruh Linde ’60. Sister-in-law of Landy Neely ’56 (deceased) and Mary Neely Poff ’58 . Mother of Susan Neely Turchick ’84 (deceased). Barbara Suchy Cathone ’59: January 13, 2025. Sister of Arline Suchy Munsell ’57 . Rosemary Cirando Coyne ’59: August 31, 2024. Marilyn Bosler Henley ’59: October 18, 2024. Mary Jo Glick Kubiak ’59: February 1, 2021. Carol Marlow Murray ’59: February 5, 2025.

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