Spring/Summer 2026

ANOTHER YEAR CELEBRATED A note from President Brennan J. Randolph

ON THE COVER

ONYX Anneau SPRING/SUMMER 2026

Graduates, Katie Butalid and Abby Sweet, celebrate their achievements.

CONTENTS

May was an energizing and inspiring month here at The Woods. I had the privilege of attending several events celebrating our students—especially our seniors—as we approached Commencement. The joy on their faces as they reflected on their accomplishments, paired with their excitement for what lies ahead, is a powerful reminder of why we do this work. Many shared their aspirations and the ways they hope to make a difference in the world, and their

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passion continues to inspire both our entire College community and me. Commencement itself is always the highlight of my year, and I had the honor of performing what I believe is the very best part of my role as president—handing diplomas to our graduates as their friends, families, faculty and staff looked on. This year was especially meaningful as we celebrated the second-largest graduating class in the College’s history, conferring 350 degrees and certificates. It was a joyful day filled with pride, knowing these graduates leave The Woods prepared to make an impact and carry forward the legacy of being SMWC alumni. Less than a week later, we welcomed more than 150 alumni back to campus. They gathered to reconnect, share stories and reflect on the ways they are continuing to shape the world. While the faces and life experiences were

Brennan J. Randolph President BJ Riley ’16, ‘23MLD, ‘24MBA Editorial Director Vice President for Advancement Elizabeth “Izzy” Reel ’21, ‘25MLD Managing Editor Advancement Officer Kristy Fry Creative Director Director of Creative Services Betsy Simon Writer Digital and Brand Marketing Manager

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different, the joy and sense of purpose were the same as those I saw during Commencement. Their stories echoed those of our graduating seniors— celebrations of achievements alongside dreams still to pursue. It is deeply meaningful to witness the enduring bond our alumni share and to see the lasting impact of their time at The Woods. I am grateful to be part of Saint Mary-of the-Woods College and feel privileged to work alongside faculty and staff who dedicate themselves each day to our students’ success. I am equally thankful for the continued support of our alumni and friends, whose commitment strengthens our mission. With gratitude,

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CONTRIBUTORS Josie Gettinger ‘ 26 Kevin Lanke

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Brennan J. Randolph, President

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 © 2026 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.

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Lisanel Rodriguez, 2026 graduate, of Bronx, N.Y., received her diploma from President Brennan Randolph during the 192nd Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 9, 2026.

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

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