Grad list April 24.indd
Transcription
Grad list April 24.indd
c l a r k e c a t a l ys t spring 2013 issue 34 DON’T BE THIS GUY: How to act in the Crusader Cafe’ Back on campus after 5 deployments to Iraq and 3 marathons vertically challenged two students go to extremes being cuttie How Clarke alums can help you get that job and more it’s not as easy as you think Clarke Football get ready! PLUS: Freshmen bucket lists, senior regrets Congratulations 2012-2013 Clarke Graduation Candidates Undergraduate Candidates (Dec. 2012) Kasey M. Finken Jennifer K. Harrington Kristen E. Anhalt Angela L. Besler Catharine E. Birch Laura M. Blocklinger Chelsey A. Boyer Ashley R. Brehm Jessica L. Brenner Justine M. Brown Craigory A. Christopher Chad Coakley Stacey L. Cervantes Brittney L. Duschner Brian Edward Eiffes Gustavo Esquivel Stephanie K. Freese Travis Jesse Gabehart Tiffanie A. Gorham Ashley A. Gunzel Tresa Heber Bridget R. Heer Chelsea T. Heitkamp Cassie M. Jackson Shaun E. Jones Molly P. Kelchen Kaitlin Christine Kilburg Tara L. Klossner Cody S. McClain Daniel W. McNamara Charles D. Nunn, Jr Marlene V. Reuter Juan J. Roman Randalyn G. Rubner Greg F. Schuster Shannon L. Stedwell Christina A. Stumpf Michael Allan Till Jason G. Waddell Gregory M. White Kelly A. Wiezorek Eric D. Winch Tina L. Zielinski Jesse James Bakey Melissa J. Gaber Ellen E. Clewell Leah J. Fern Lori A. Dalberg Joan M. Runde Jolene Stackis Masters Candidates (Dec. 2012) Jonathon D. Beers Nathaniel W Gilmore Jenna G. Houselog Kyle V. Vejraska Undergraduate Candidates (May, Aug. 2013) Zachary P. Althaus Mary K. Anderson Erin N. Anthenat Sara T. Arthofer Lindsey K. Baker Mirek Baran Diane L. Baumgartner Amanda J. Bonney Amy L. Bowden Bridget A. Bowman Christopher R. Brewer Rebecca J. Brosnan Rebecca A. Brown Maria L. Covington Brian F. Cross Erin M. Daly Rahni Kay V. David Jeremy J. Deweerdt Joseph Edward August Dietrich Patrick A. Dirks Jon C. Drury Samantha L. Dugan Jantz D. Elliott Brianne M. Fagan Lucas W. Flynn Shannon N. Gallagher Cody W. Gallagher Ivy L. Galle Alexis A. Gibbs Jeremy A. Goodall Dawn Grimstad Lucas E. Grymonprez Meghan D. Harrison Ian P. Hart Melissa J. Hartl Holly M. Hosch Daniel J. Hoyt Michelle Ardine Jamison Hattie R. Jonson Kristin E. Kachlik Sarah Jo Kelley Ashley E. Kirner Dawn M. Klostermann Joseph L. Kosciw Sammantha A. Mammoser Chad L. Maro Kelly L. McAllister Darren McCarthy Jordan Rey A. Mendoza Scott A. Mestan Sydney R. Mueller Abby L. Nauman Brian P. O’Donnell Tyler Oehmen Jacob L. Petersen Abbey L. Peterzalek Nicole L. Pollock Raymond E. Pottebaum Jacob A. Rios Lynn E. Roth Lindsey J. Roussel Rolando G. Sanchez Dustin C. Sandberg Tara R. Sargent Michael D. Schindel Kayla S. Schnoebelen Kim N. Shanley Jill Rose Sieverding Nathan Sipe-Powell Brandon J. Sobojinski Jennifer L. Streif Brenda K. Strub Peter J. Sullivan Jeremiah P. Sullivan Adam C. Szurkowski Destiney K. Tebbe Kyle R Telecky Daniel J. Tringale Luke D. Van Meveren Emily A. Verhagen Julie A. Walsh Cory A. Weinschenk Brian E. Weiss Tessa A. Westpfahl Dawn Wolf Roberto C. Dominguez John Paul Hentges Kimberly T. Then Jessica R. Bixby Tessa J. Crist Timothy E. Doser Amber A. Kickbush Megan K. Schwitz Kaveria A. Allen Kayla M. Baker Erienne M. Becker Kathryn L. Bergman Aurora A. Buschkamp Drew D. Carroll Mary C. Collier Nicholas J. Cone Elizabeth A. Eiseman Trevor L. Franck Bailey K. Halvorsen Audrey A. Hentges Drew B. Higgins Julianne Michelle Keith Meghan K. Mulloy Jordan E. Palmer Katherine E. PhilippGuerra Jonathan R. Schoening Lindsay R. Schueller Miguel M. Silva Jessica Michelle Sloan Nicole A. Sullivan Courtney Jo Traser Brittany Genevieve Twohill Bradley J. Weimerskirch Alexandra Elizabeth Beck Catherine R. Bormann Amanda J. Burbach Emily D. Capesius Amy M. Chapman Kelly M. Cleary Alyssa A. Cooper Kaila C. Dalen Sara M. Davis Stacie Lynn DeMoss-Schloemer Kari Lynn Denahy Stephanie J. Eslinger Rachel C. Fischer Kim Gilbert Aubrey E. Hammes Kevin A. Hartzog Jr. Audrey J. Hurley Brittany A. Jacobson Chelsea M. Jelinek Samantha C. Johnson Olivia J. Johnson Karla Kass Danielle Diana Keys Shelly J. Klein Sara A. Knopik Bridget A. Koehler Taylor A. Konichek Ariel Lynn Leonard Mary E. List Hannah E. Miller Lauren M. Palmer Cortney M. Pasker Elizabeth M. Pecora Diana B. Rice Krista M. Richman Brittany Rose Runde Karena A. Sauser Shawn A. Shumaker Ashley L. Till Faith Elizabeth Till Caitlin Renae Wagemester Kaitlyn M. Wallenhorst Amy E. Warner Callie M. Young Laura E. Zelinskas Barbara L. Zenz Masters Candidates (May, Aug. 2013) Nichole M. Ambrosia Christy A. Atkinson Amanda M. Junk Michael P. Mahoney Stephanie A. Peters Colin R. Rust Christopher Ahl Colin J. Allison Marie L. Duster Katherine Anne Kluseman Molly M. Lammers Kirk M. Lebeck Nathaniel A. Lech Diana C. Miller Francis V. Milot Eric Pollard David T. Riniker Laurie Skattum Jeffrey M. Szalkowski Tanya T. Tjarks James L. Uppena Amanda S. Addison Maddalena L. Alfano Katherine Shand Andersen Tiffany M. Braun Nicole L. Bridges Erin Elizabeth Brown Dana M. Clasen Amy S. Connolly Kara L. Fenne Melinda Lyn Duncan Foreman Toni L. Gau Darcy M. Glasker Lisa M. Jansen Angel R. Keller Sara J. Kraus Jodie L. McDermott Kaye Lee McGrath Kelly J. O’Reilly Alber Melanie Ann Ramsey Richelle M. Roethler Edna M. Scherbring Jennifer A. Seibert Jacklyn M. Shovlain Kaitlyn L. Tipsword Cheryl A. Wagner Megan Webber Doctorate of Physical Therapy Candidates Michelle A. Bahl Nicholas Joseph Bass Elizabeth A. Beighley Miranda J. Boss Julie Christina Boyum Kevin Andrew Bradt Brant Michael Chambers Tyson T. Droessler Adam Duane Eiseman Darcie Lynn James Ashley A. Johnson Jessica L. Lippens Benjamin M. Maiers Kevin J. Marchant, II Kayla Jo Meyer Kristin M. Obert Cory Martin Oswald Paige Elizabeth Petersen Sarah A. Reidy Brett Richard Reuter Allison L. Riesberg Kevin Matthew Steussy Tiffany Ann Kamakaehukai Michiyo Truckenmiller Dana N. Wells Jared Allen Wichers Caitlin E. Woods Christopher James Wooley Jacob Steven Zanger Clarke Catalyst 2013 1 CATALYST 2013 Editor’s Letter editor Erin Daly assistant editors Joe Arms Michael Francis Kevin Murphy Rolando Sanchez design assistant Hilary Van Praag photographer Taylor Shively contributing writer Tyler Oehmen illustrators Hannah Goldsmith Emily Schlueter advisor Diana Russo I t’s hard to believe, but the end of another school year is upon us, and with that the expectation of another volume of the “Catalyst.” Getting the 2013 volume of the magazine into readers’ hands seemed a monumental task at the start of this semester; our staff was even smaller than last year’s, we didn’t have a photographer at the beginning, and a few of our staff members had never written for magazines or used our layout program before. But thanks to the creativity and dedication of our staff, the talents of a few outside contributors, and hours of editing and designing, the 2013 “Catalyst” is finally here, and I couldn’t be happier with the final product. This year’s magazine features an eclectic mix of personalities and perspectives that I think you will enjoy. There are many people to thank for making this volume possible, so I’ll do my best to make sure I mention them all. First of all, I thank the staff writers for their hard work and for making the stories in these pages the best that they can be. Second, I thank our photographer, Taylor Shively, for helping the “Catalyst” cause by providing us with images to help our stories come to life. I also thank our outside contributors, art majors Emily Schlueter and Hannah Goldsmith, whose illustrations added humor and whimsy to the writers’ stories, and Tyler Oehmen, a two-time “Catalyst” veteran, who made sure that Cuttie’s on-and off-court personality shines through in writing. I also extend my thanks to everyone on and off campus who made this magazine possible through agreeing to be interviewed for our stories. The following pages would be pretty dull without your generosity and help. And, of course, a special thanks is owed to our advisor, Diana Russo, for her support and guidance. She spent countless hours sorting out the nitty-gritty details of this magazine, from font choices to layout decisions to editing and proofreading stories. I also thank the chair of Clarke’s communication department, Abdul Sinno, for his support, and President Joanne Burrows, SC, and Provost/Vice President of Academic Affairs Joan Lingen, BVM, for their continued support of this magazine. Welcome to the 2013 “Catalyst.” Enjoy! ~Erin Daly The “Catalyst” is a student-produced magazine for the Clarke community. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Clarke faculty, administration or staff. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the Communication Department. Questions or comments should be addressed to Diana Russo, Communications Department, MS 1801, Clarke University, Dubuque, IA 52001. 4 Clarke Catalyst 2013 CONTRIBUTORS erin daly hilary van praag rolando sanchez michael francis kevin murphy joe arms taylor shively taylor shively CATALYST 2013 6 Clarke Catalyst 2013 CONTENTS 6. Badass Back on campus after 5 deployments to Iraq. by Kevin Murphy 8. California Types (Seen them lately?) by Hilary Van Praag 10. Vertically Challenged Who’s the tallest/shortest of them all? by Rolando Sanchez 13. Tales out of School Clarke profs beyond the classroom. by Joe Arms 16. First Down for Clarke Football It’s happening. by Michael Francis 18. Clarke Sparkles Photos by Taylor Shively 20. To Do: Freshmen bucket lists by Hilary Van Praat 21. Being Cuttie It’s complicated. by Tyler Oehmen 25. A Family Affair T imeSaver includes family. by Kevin Murphy 27. If Only What seniors would do differently. by Michael Francis 28. Heating it Up Benchwarmers do it all. by Hilary Van Praag 32. Updates from Abroad Word from faculty Fulbright Scholars. by Erin Daly 34 My View from Behind the Counter Give them a break. by Rolando Sanchez 36. Making Connections Alums can help you find a job. by Erin Daly 39. Nia Arrives ...After a long bus ride and good interview. by Rolando Sanchez Clarke Catalyst 2013 A BADASS Returning to Clarke after five deployments to Iraq story and layout by kevin murphy photos contributed T he day of September 11, 2001 is a day that people will never forget because of the tragedies that occurred. Those tragedies are what inspired Clarke transfer student Jason Davis to join the military. Jason is a 38-year-old veteran born and raised in Dubuque who attended Clarke University before the military, and is now back at Clarke. Jason came back to school because the job market was so tough. Before he went into the military he also attended Simpson College and Loras College. He played football at Simpson for three years and basketball for a year at Clarke. He admits to not being the most focused student, but when he started attending Loras, his priorities changed and he started working on his classes more. Now at Clarke, Jason doesn’t mind being an older student. “I enjoy being the older guy in class,” he says. “I feel I have a lot to offer because of my experience. Plus, I appreciate the opportunity and I am humbled to be back in school full time. I would never take this for granted.” Jason is studying to get his degree in business and is focusing on classes more now than he used to. “I believe the learning environment now is more 6 Clarke Catalyst 2013 conducive to learning and more closely correlates to the real world,” said Jason, who has the post 9-11 GI Bill, which helps out with his tuition. In 2005, when Jason was 30 years old, he joined the military and was stationed at Fort Lewis in Washington. He started with the infantry and then went into special operations. Less than six months after basic training he was deployed to Iraq. “First time I was deployed I was excited to go over there and do my part,” he said. “Being deployed really always had my family worried but they were proud of me for serving our country.” Jason’s family consists of his wife, Sarah, a nurse at Finley Hospital, and 2-year-old daughter, Grace. “It was very hard on my family,” Jason said. “My wife was a nervous wreck because she knew the nature of my missions and understood the circumstances and risks. We would go for four months, be back at base for six months, but only three of those months were spent at home.” In the military, Jason, a platoon army sergeant, was in the 75th Ranger Regiment, and the majority of his missions were direct action missions. He says he “got to jump out of airplanes and helicopters all the time.” “Our special operations unit had two tasks, “ ” With over 500 direct action combat raids under my belt, I felt like percentages were against me and my boys. air field seizure operations and direct action missions. The direct action missions were for high-value targets and had to be first okayed by the president. On borrowed time Above: Clarke student Jason Davis with two comrades in Iraq. Right: Jason with his wife, Sarah. and daughter, Grace. Davis had five deployments to Iraq and says the four and the fifth were the most difficult. “They were the hardest because I felt I was going, ‘outside the wire’ on borrowed time,” says Jason. One of the things he really liked about the military was being part of something so big, but it came with immense responsibility. “With over 500 direct action combat raids under my belt, I felt like percentages were against me and my boys. My best friend in my platoon was killed in action while we were on a mission together and that weighed heavily on me, especially when I took my boys out on missions. I had a strong feeling of responsibility to bring them all home safely to their families. Many of my guys had a wife and children of their own., said Jason. “Being in the military you have to sacrifice a lot for your country,” he says “Physically and mentally, Special Operations was very challenging, but I enjoyed that part. The hardest part was not being available for my family. Not only was I deployed a lot, but when I was here in the states, I was always working. For months of my time I was on call and couldn’t travel over 50 miles from my base because we could be told to deploy anywhere in the world within 18 hours.” In his free time Jason enjoys running. He has participated in three marathons: the Seattle Marathon, the Portland Marathon, and the Run for the Troops Marathon in Dubuque, and he plans on running more. He didn’t enjoy running as much when he was younger until he was in the military and he started to log his miles. He found it was something to get his mind off the war. “Being in the military was the most challenging thing I have done in my life: I learned a lot about people and myself,” said Jason. “It changed my life tenfold for the better. I got to travel all over the world and see many different perspectives on life. My favorite part was being a part of such a huge cause and collaborative experience and knowing you weren’t doing it on your own.” Many veterans struggle with adjusting to everyday life after being in the military. “It’s been very challenging,” says Jason.“I had a lot of responsibility in the military. I was the direct supervisor for 12 Rangers, leading them on combat missions. Here in the states I would teach classes to over 200 soldiers at one time. Transitioning to civilian life and not having all that responsibility has been tough. Plus, experiencing and witnessing everything I did in combat changed my view of the world both in a positive and negative way.” Coming home Jason earned a Bronze Star Medal among other awards. As for the future he plans on earning his degree in business administration management and getting a job in the area to be close to his family. He chose a business degree so that he could get a good-paying job and provide for his family. Jason also plans on participating in more marathons in years to come. Jason left the military after eight long years of duty. “After our daughter was born, my perspective and my life goals changed,” he said. “I didn’t want to continue to put myself in harm’s way knowing my family needed me, and most importantly, I needed them. I felt I served my country honorably and I owed it to my family, and myself to be available for them.” Ë Clarke Catalyst 2013 7 Cali’ Clarke Beach Sonia Colavita Hermosa Beach “Coming to school at Clarke, I wasn’t used to people not understanding the slang we use in California. Some of the typical things I would wear such as jean shorts, rainbow roxy sandals, or slip sanuks and a racer back shirt, they would usually make the comment, ’Oh, cause you’re from California.’” Sporty John Hendrington Fresno,California “Coming from California people always say I talk different, dress nice, which leads some people to stereotype me as a player. On a typical day you’ll see me wearing some Levi or True Religion jeans along with my Nikes or Jordans, topping it off with a Cali sports team hat.” 8 Clarke Catalyst 2013 Swag c story by hilary van praag photos contributed illustrations by emily schlueter Urban Rolando Sanchez Chula Vista “Being from Southern California or as others say, the “Mexico Border,” I usually get the typical stereotypes of people thinking I’ve been a member of a gang (ha!). People may get this image based on what they see me wearing most days: jeans, and for the shoes, I gotta go with the Timberlands, one of my fitted hats or a snapback, and the big T (graphic to match the hat).” Skater Anthony Razo Long Beach “People see my typical wardrobe of skate shoes with tube socks and how I throw on some Levi jeans or Dickies shorts, a nice clean T-shirt, and definitely a hat. And don’t let me forget to add that it all has to match. Then they hear I’m from Cali and they automatically think I own every pair of Vans and that we need to look good 24/7, which I can’t disagree with.” Clarke Catalyst 2013 9 Vertically Challenged The long and the short of it for two Clarke students story and layout by rolando sanchez photos by taylor shively 10 Clarke Catalyst 2013 Growing up can be hard enough, but when you stand out more than others, it can be especially difficult. For Clarke students Sam Mills and Kourtney Miller, their height is what makes them special. Sam Mills, 18, is a computer information systems major from Sacramento, Calif. Like many others at Clarke, he came here via athletics. Q : What brought you to Clarke from California? And how have you adjusted to life in Iowa? A : I was given an opportunity to continue my volleyball career as well as receive a good education, so I took a chance and accepted the offer to come to Iowa. Iowa is different in many ways, especially the climate. The biggest challenge is being away from the family and close friends back home; it is so expensive to fly home. I see a lot of people I know on campus that get to go home for the weekend and visit their families but I understand my reasoning for being out here, my passion for volleyball and the thought of making them (family and friends) proud is what keeps me going. Q : So, exactly how tall are you? And have you always been the tallest one in the group? A : I am 6'10." Growing up, I was always the tallest one in the group, but nothing out of the ordinary until I reached my freshman year of high school. I had grown six inches over the summer and walked in first day of high school at 6'5." Every year I grew a couple inches, and here I am, unsure whether I still have more growing to do. Q : Does height run in your family? Or are you just lucky being 6'10"? A : Height does run in my family; my grandfather was 6'7," my mom is 5'10," and my sister is 6'1." So we got our fair share of height in my family. Q : How long have you been playing volleyball? Did you play any other sports? A: This is my sixth year. I started toward the end of middle school. I played basketball for eight years, before I started focusing more on volleyball my sophomore year of high school. I fell in love with volleyball; it became my passion and I embraced it. Left, Clarke freshman Sam Mills with junior Kourtney Miller. Below, Sam and Kourtney in the driver’s seat. Clarke Catalyst 2013 11 Q : What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of being short? A : I would say there are several advantages. I look younger, which will definitely be an advantage when I’m older. Right now, though, it is a disadvantage except for when I want to be younger so I can get things cheaper. When I was 17 my family and I went to Disney World and they said I was 12 so we saved money. I can fit into kids clothes and shoes, which is nice because they are cheaper and sometimes have cuter stuff than the adult sections. Another advantage is that I get told I’m cute all the time. I am always going to be shorter than guys! I have learned to embrace my shortness and realize that it makes me unique and it also gets me noticed. One disadvantage, of course, is not being able to reach things up high. The driver’s seat in my car has to be up so far, and it looks silly because it is up so much farther than the passenger seat. Another disadvantage is trying to find clothes that fit. I struggle with pants; they are always way too long and I have to get them altered. The biggest disadvantage I would definitely have to say is short jokes! I get so sick of them. I used to take them really personally and they hurt my feelings, but I have learned to let them go more now. I have also learned to laugh and go along because if I don’t look irritated, then people stop. I am also not always taken seriously, especially by little kids because many of them are almost as tall as me. My half sister is 12 and her shoe size is bigger than mine and we can wear some of the same clothes. : Being so tall, What are the advantages and disadvantages? : The advantages are: I can reach almost anything that is out of a normal person’s reach, but that can also be a disadvantage because I am always the go-to guy for anything high up. My height gives me an advantage in volleyball, and when it comes to crowds, I can see over everyone. Disadvantages: There are always those who feel they need to make unnecessary jokes about my height, but I have grown to ignore those people and realize they are the ones with the disadvantage. I am also always confused for a basketball player. Q : So what adjustments do you have to make at Clarke because of your height? For example, in your dorm room, in classrooms, hallways? A : Because the bed isn’t made for someone of my height, I have to adjust the way I sleep. I try to curl myself up and a get in a comfortable position, which unfortunately leads to really bad cramps in the morning. Certain doorways are too short for me, so I have to duck or tuck my head under when I pass through. It becomes subconscious after a while, and I don’t even notice that I do the adjustments I do. Riding in a car, I have to push my seat back farther than many people and adjust the rear view mirror. Q : It is so early in your college career, but where do you see yourself in the future? A : Enjoying my college volleyball years and graduating with a degree in computer information systems and starting a career. For Bellevue, Iowa native Kourtney Miller, 20, a business administration major, things are different. She stands 4'11" tall. Q: What brought you to Clarke? A: I visited my senior year in high school and liked it but thought I wanted something bigger so I decided to attend the University of Northern Iowa. After one semester, I knew I had made the wrong decision and knew in the back of my mind that I would end up at Clarke one day. I then attended Northeast Iowa Community College in Peosta for three semesters to save money. Then, I got to thinking about Clarke again and I also really wanted to dance. I visited and knew it was the right fit for me. I loved everything about it and everyone was so nice and helpful! Q : Growing up were you always the shortest one of the group? A : I was regular height through grade school and then everyone kept growing and I sort of stayed put. 12 Clarke Catalyst 2013 Q A Q : You cheer lead and dance for Clarke. Which do you enjoy more? A : I enjoy both of them a lot, although I had never cheered before coming to Clarke. I danced on my high school dance team so I have prior experience in that area and I just love it! Q : Does shortness run in your family or were you just lucky to be 4'11"? A I’m doomed for shortness; my mom is really short, my grandma and great grandma are also, so is my grandpa, and several of my aunts on my dad’s side. Q : More than halfway through college, where do you see yourself in the near future? A : I am not sure exactly what I want to do, definitely something in the business world. I am currently employed at Prudential Retirement here in Dubuque and I really enjoy it. However, I am only in a temporary position and my time is almost up. I’m hoping to be rehired and if possible work there after I graduate. Ë scoop it. com Tales Out of School Three Clarke professors who have a surprising side to life beyond the classroom story and layout by joe arms photos by taylor shively As an undergrad, Knock was a history and political science major. He then went on to earn his Ph.D. in American History at Notre Dame. In between his f you walk the hallways of Clarke University and studying he bought his first cookbook and brought it roar, “Who can make me the best apple pie?” back to the dorms with him. Although he didn’t have Michael Knock, Ph.D., would be the first to answer a formal kitchen to bring the recipes in the book to your call with a humble smile on his face and a tin pie life, he used the cookbooks to “imagine what I could pan in hand. Knock is a history professor at Clarke. do with them. ” However, there is some interesting history of his own After finishing grad school at Notre Dame, Knock that he may not teach his students. Michael Knock had some difficulty finding a permanent teaching job. has a, “developed interest in the history of food”, and This led to his decision to apply to the University of writes a weekly food column for the Iowa City Press Iowa’s School of Journalism Masters program. During Citizen, a column he hasn’t missed writing since his time in Iowa City he became a full-time reporter August 2004. Michael Knock: Keeper of history and recipes I Clarke Catalyst 2013 for the Iowa City Press Citizen. Then in 2004 Knock was asked to become the new food writer, and he gladly accepted. His journalism endeavors do not conflict with his professorial duties. He’s able to balance his weekly food column with his teaching. In addition to teaching and writing, Knock is currently trying to create an oral history of his hometown Melvin, Iowa. His goal is to talk to the citizens, all 211 of them, and record the history of the town with their memories. The town was started by the increase of small farmers moving into the area. However, wealthier families are now buying up multiple farms. “Agriculture built the town, and agriculture is now killing it,” he says. Knock is hoping to capture the history of his hometown so that others may learn from it. He’s hoping to share his life through his food column so that others may learn from it. He’s hoping you try a slice of his apple pie so that you can learn his history. Favorite movie: “The Royal Tenenbaums” Favorite book: “The Beat Queen” by Louise Erdrich Favorite food: Apple pie Kent Anderson: Episcopal priest C larke University philosophy professor Kent Anderson was born in Chicago, Ill. but raised in South America. After finishing high school in Venezuela, Anderson attended Trinity College in Texas and graduated with a double major in philosophy and history. He went on to receive his graduate degree in philosophy from DePaul University. During one of his English Renaissance lit classes, Anderson read the Book of Common Prayer, which is the indispensable worship resource for Episcopalians. This was the first event that directed Anderson’s life toward his role at St. Johns Church in Dubuque. After graduating from DePaul, Anderson found himself teaching at Clarke. Here is where his faith strengthened. “The Christian community here in Dubuque strengthened my faith.” For years Anderson continued to teach philosophy and attend church. In 2009 he was ordained as an official Episcopalian priest. Every priest in charge of a congregation is involved with baptisms, confirmations, marriages, and burials. They must also instruct both parents and godparents in the significance of Holy Baptism, the responsibilities involved, and how their obligations are to be discharged. 14 Clarke Catalyst 2013 There is a strong tradition of ministry work and teaching within the religion. Philosophy, the subject Anderson teaches, helps him articulate life’s biggest questions. To Anderson, the relationship between philosophy and religion is similar to the relationship between math and engineering. “Math helps you think scientifically; philosophy helps you think theologically,” he explains. Whether he’s in a church or a classroom, Anderson is always teaching. “As a priest one of my primary roles is to teach.” As a professor Anderson’s first duties are to have faith in his students. Favorite movie: “Babette’s Feast” Favorite book: “The Great Divorce” by C.S. Lewis Favorite food: Chicago deep dish pizza Sunil Malapati: Director of people and chemistry S unil Malapati has been a chemistry professor at Clarke University for eight years. Many know him simply as a professor, but he has another side to him. A more “dramatic” side, if you will. When Malapati isn’t teaching young minds about the chemistry of the world, you may find him teaching minds (both young and old) how to act with the proper chemistry on stage. Malapati’s theatrical beginning took place in Big Rapids, Mich. He was an adjunct professor at Ferris State University and was also involved in choir singing. On one particularly bold day, he decided to audition for the school’s production of “Dracula.” They offered him the role of Van Helsing, the beginning of a long and ongoing involvement in the world Opposite Page: History professor of theater. Michael Knock cuts a cake he After moving to Dubuque, Malapati immersed baked for his European History himself in the local art scene. He discovered Fly By class. Philosophy professor Kent Night Theatrical Productions, the Dubuque One Act Anderson conducts services at Play Contest, and the Dubuque Fine Arts Society. St. John’s Episcopal Church in Dubuque. This Page: These communities allowed him to follow his pasChemistry professor Sunil Malasion for directing. Although directing was his end pati appears in a 2007 Clarke goal, he says he knew that, “the more you understand the makings of a play, the better you can direct.” production of “And Flights of Angels,” an adaptation of ShakeHe attended playwright classes, created sound speare’s “Hamlet ,”with 2009 designs, continued to act and spent time in art galalum Megan Svensen. leries—all to better understand the theatrical process. He did his homework. Malapati says, “I’m always learning.” His acute attention to detail is something he tries to pass on to his students whether in the classroom or on the stage. Favorite movie: “Finding Nemo” Favorite book: Anything by Shakespeare Favorite food: Sunil’s Fenugreek chicken with rice and green beans Clarke Catalyst 2013 16 Clarke Catalyst 2013 First Down for Clarke Football I t ’s h a p p e n i n g story storybybymichael michaelfrancis francis illustration illustrationbybyHannah hannahGoldsmith goldsmith T he prospect of Clarke having a football team says Vosberg. is interest to explore whetherathor not we have majors“The thatgoal are of to student has long been a hot topic. That discussion is we have majors that are of interest to student athletes. The addition of a large number of new students part of a five-year strategic plan dating from letes. The addition a large number of new students would require moreofprofessors to accommodate the May 2012 to May 2017. This plan includes the possiwould require more professors to accommodate the growth in numbers.” This plan includes the possibility of developing new growth in numbers. ” bility of developing new athletic teams, other majors, Many students may be surprised to know that the athletic teams, other majors, and facility upgrades. Many be surprised know that the and facility upgrades. The Football Committee was plan is tostudents establishmay lacrosse as a newto sport at Clarke The Football Committee was created as a subcommitplan is to establish Lacrosse as a new sport at created as a subcommittee of the Strategic Planning before a football team. Lacrosse will be put in Clarke place tee of the Strategic Planning Committee in 2012, and before a football LaCrosse be established Committee in 2012, and was made up of 10 faculty and recruited for team. prior to having awill football season. was mademembers up of 10 from faculty and staff members from and recruited for prior to having football season. and staff various departments. Clarke has been in talks about the possibility of a various departments. Clarke has been in talks about the possibility of a It was a long process and it took over two years partnership with the Dubuque Community School It was a long process and took over two years for partnership with the Dubuque Community School for the Football Committee to establish a plan and District to allow the university use of Dalzell Field at the Committee establish a plan and then DistrictHigh, to allow theisuniversity of Delzell thenFootball have it approved bytothe Board of Trustees. The Senior which currentlyuse being rebuilt. Field Cer- at have it approved by the Board of Trustees. The first Senior High, which is currently being re-built. There first year was spent researching the possibilities, and tain additions are needed in order to make the field year was spent researching the possibilities, and the are certain additions needed in order to make the the following year was spent taking the research and usable as a college football field and for track and following year was spent taking the field events usable such as a college football fieldallowing and for Clarke track information and making sense of it.research and field as a pole-vaulting, information and making sense of it. and field events such as a pole-vaulting, allowing Michele Vosberg, education professor and to expand its track and field program. The walking Michele professor and Clarke tolocation expand the track and field appealing program. The member ofVosberg, both theeducation Football Committee andmember Stradistance of the field is very to of both the Football Committee and Strategic Planwalking-distance location of the field is very appealtegic Planning Committee, said that the main goal of Clarke ning Committee, said that thegenerate main goal of having ingCurrently to Clarkethere is nothing in place for exactly having a football team is “to vibrancy and a football team is “to generate vibrancy and spirit on Currently thereathletic is nothing in place for exactly spirit on campus through athletic expansion and to where revamped facility upgrades will be campus through athletic expansion and incorporate where revamped athletic facility upgrades will be incorporate ways to grow student involvement.” put in. However, there is a campus master plan that ways to grow student involvement. ” put in. However, there is a campus master that “There are many initiatives that need to take place includes suggestions on where new facilitiesplan might “There are many initiatives that need to take place includes suggestions on where new facilities might be before developing a college football team,” said be added. There is a lot to be done and it will be before developing a college football team, ” said Strateadded. There is a lot to be done and it will be awhile Strategic Planning Committee member and Athletic awhile before these upgrades are under way. “It is gic Planning memberplan andisAthletic Direc- important before these under way. “Itaisfive-year imporDirector CurtCommittee Long. “A strategic a way the to upgrades know thatare although this is tor Curt Long. “A strategic plan is a way the unitant to know that although this is a five-year university can position itself for the addition of footplan, it doesn’t guarantee football at the end ofplan, the it versity can position itself for the addition of football. doesn’t guarantee football at the end of the fifth year,” ball. “There are many new and exciting things footfifth year,” said Vosberg. “There are many new and exciting things football will said Vosberg. ball will bring to the university. Football will have an After the upgrades are under way, the next move bring to theimpact university. Football will havespirit, an immedithewill upgrades are aunder way, the nextstaff. move immediate on male enrollment, and forAfter Clarke be to hire football coaching “A ate impact on male enrolment, spirit, and vibrancy of for Clarke will be to hire a coaching staff for football. the vibrancy of campus life.” head coach will be hired a year before the season and campus life.” Improvement Plan is the biggest step “A head coach hired a year before The Capital recruiting will will thenbetake place, ” said Long.the season The Capital Improvement Plan is the biggest step and recruiting will then take place, ” Long. in getting things established. This plan is designed to Students around campus expressedsaid mixed feelings in getting things established. This plan is designed to Students around campus expressed mixed add facilities and make upgrades to support growth about a potential football team. “I don’t think feelings Clarke add facilitiesThe andkey make upgrades to support growth potential football don’t think “I Clarke in athletics. areas being focused on are the isabout readya for a football team,team. ” said“ITre Wagner. in athletics. The key areas being focused on are the is ready for a football team. I think they should locker rooms, the weight room, and various other think they should focus on improving the sports we locker larger weight room, and various focus onhave. improving the sports we already have, ” said supportrooms, areas. aCurrently Clarke has enough resi-other already ” (The Football committee noted that It support areas. Currently Clarke has enough residence Tre Wagner. “It is important to know that the existdence hall rooms to house the additional students is important to know that the existing sports will not hall house theestablishing additional students ingnegatively sports willaffected not be or negatively affectedtaken or have that rooms would to come with a footballthat team. be have anything away would come with establishing a football team. anything taken away with the addition of football.” The athletic side is a key focus of the plan, but a with the addition of football.) athletic key focus of With the plan, Robert Prado said,Prado “I think that football team team is is lotThe needs to beside put is inaplace as well. the but pos-a Student Robert said, “ Aa football lot needs to be put in place as well. With the posexactly what Clarke is missing; this is a great plan sible addition of 70 students for a football team, work exactly what Clarke is missing; this is a great plan sible addition on of 70 students for a football because football football isis the the only only main main sport sport we we don’t don’t have. have.”” is proceeding possibly developing new team, majorswork because is proceeding on possibly developing new majors We don’t have football back home in Germany, said aimed toward student athletes. “These majors are not Franz Winkler said, “We don’t have football back aimed majors are not Franz in Winkler. “ But I love watching it in America chosen,toward and westudent may orathletes. may not“These need new majors, ” home Germany. I love watching it in America and chosen, and we may or may not need new majors, ” and am excited it’s in the future of Clarke University. says Vosberg. “The goal is to explore whether or not am excited it’s in the future of Clarke.”University. ”Ë ” Clarke ClarkeCatalyst Catalyst2013 20131717 clarke sparkles 22 C Cl Clarke llar arrke a ke C Catalyst atal at allys yst 2 20 2013 0 3 013 Clarke C larrk la ke Ca C Catalyst atta aly lysstt 2 2013 013 A 01 photos by Tyler Shively photos by taylor Shively To Do: Freshmen Bucket Lists TUPSZBOEMBZPVUCZIJMBSZWBOQSBBH QIPUPTCZUBZMPSTIJWFMZ David Neis Anthony Panteleo t 'JOEUIFFOEPGUIFSBJOCPX t 5BLFUSJQUPUIF(SBOE$BOZPO t ćSPXBSBHJOHQBSUZ Andrea Keegan t8SJUFBTPOH t -JWFJO4QBJOGPSBTVNNFS t(PPOOVSTJOHNJTTJPOUSJQUP"GSJDB t(PUPBTPDDFSHBNF t,JTTTPNFPOF*BMXBZTXBOUFEUP t(FUBUBUUPP Ryan Siems t (SBEVBUF t (FUJOCBSCSBXM t 8JOCBTFCBMMDPOGFSFODFUJUMF DIBNQJPOTIJQ Ina Pruzinskis Taylor Shively t %P)BSMFNTIBLFEBODF t1PHPTUJDLUPDMBTT t.BLFBEJČFSFODFBU$MBSLFNBLF QFPQMFSFNFNCFSNF 20 Clarke Catalyst 2013 t8JODPOGFSFODFGPSTPDDFS t5BLFBUSJQUP-BT7FHBT t(PQBSBTBJMJOH Being Cuttie I It’s more complicated than you think story by tyler oehmen photos by taylor shively n the Clarke athletic department there is always an unlucky coach or staff member who gets the bonus responsibility of finding someone to step into the suit of Clarke’s official mascot, Cutlass T. Crusader (more affectionately known as “Cuttie”). It’s not a hard job, but it is most certainly a pain in the you-know-what. It seems simple enough, yet no one seems to want to put his or her body into a hot suit that many others have worn and that, while you are inside, makes you wonder if you have left Dubuque for a hike in the Sahara Desert. And then there is the question of why someone would want to put themselves into a furry suit and entertain hundreds of people in the Kehl Center when it feels like the wearer Clarke Catalyst 2013 21 “ I would say that Jon Heidler was BORN to be a mascot. is actually at the base of a volcano. The staff member in charge this year is head women’s soccer coach Tyler Watkins. Lucky for Watkins, however, Clarke has found someone who actually wants to be Cuttie. Over three years ago, an 18-year-old Jon Heidler set foot on the campus of the newly renamed Clarke University as a freshman and began his college life. It would define him. “I’ve always been outgoing,” said Jon. “I always want people to remember me. I know I am certainly awful with names so I want to leave an impression.” Single Jon is born He did. That first day at Clarke, and for many days onward, Jon began to introduce himself to his contemporaries. With a sly smile, a nod, and often a handshake, he would walk up to a female and utter the six words that would shape his future at Clarke: “Hi, I’m Jon and I’m single.” “Single Jon” was born. Always wanting to leave an impression, Jon continued to plug the notion that he was single, eating up all the attention it got. Across campus you could have a conversation that would go like this: “I was waiting in line to get my food when Jon started talking to me.” “Jon who?” “You know, Single Jon.” “Oh! I know him!” This proved to be sometimes problematic for Jon. First, everyone knew his relationship status without checking Facebook. Second, no one knew who he actually was. After all, he was “Single Jon” or, to some, “Jon Single.” “I actually had someone try to look me up on Facebook but could not find me because they thought my last name was ‘Single,’” Jon said. In no time, everyone knew who Single Jon was, but few could pick Jon Heidler out in a police lineup. Things really took off when the organizers of CONNECT orientation week put on their annual air band show for freshmen. Jon’s band had finished performing, and, with a packed Jansen Music Hall, his band mates pointed at Jon in unison exclaiming “Ladies, this is Jon and he’s single!” “I love it,” said Jon about being known as Single Jon. “I didn’t start introducing myself as that to get a girlfriend; I did it to leave an impression. Being known for that tells me I did.” As it turns out, he had plenty of other things to be known for. You couldn’t go to a Clarke game without 22 Clarke Catalyst 2013 Coach Chris Uffman ” seeing Jon in the stands. Jon was known for showing up to Clarke sporting events wearing face paint, and LOTS of it. He applied the paint to his face in incredibly decadent designs and vibrant colors. It certainly succeeded in garnering attention from the crowd. One day, Jon, the now junior biology major and member of the Clarke bowling team, was asked by his coach, Chris Uffman, the lucky staff member in charge of Cuttie, to help him out at Clarke Day at the River Museum in downtown Dubuque. Uffman had asked two bowlers to be Cuttie that day because someone had bailed on him at the last minute. Jon thought it would be gross to put on the mascot suit after someone else had worn it so he offered to take both shifts. But he thought it would be fun being a mascot. He put on the suit and it was meant to be. Seven hours later, the day was over and Jon had been so caught up in the action he had forgotten to take his one-hour break. A beautiful relationship between an outgoing bowler and a lion suit was born. “I would say that Jon Heidler was BORN to be a mascot,” said Uffman. “He is very animated by nature, and given the additional anonymity that the full-body suit affords, Jon Heidler plus Cuttie is a recipe for high energy shenanigans” Uffman has seen Jon transform from Jon of the past to Jon today. “Jon has definitely grown since he began his time here,” continued Uffman. “Oddly, being hidden in the suit may have helped him to come out of his shell a bit. He seems a bit more confident walking around campus, even if he isn’t covered in fur. It takes a special person to be Cuttie and to do as great of a job as Jon does. It is easy to go through the motions and just wear the suit, but Jon embodies the persona. A good mascot needs energy, character, and the ability to stew in your own sweat for hours at a time.” A new Cuttie Cuttie had become a new mascot. He was now a consistently fun-loving goofball and people noticed. Cuttie was becoming a real celebrity at home games. As time went on, Jon would have more and more fun as Cuttie. ( In reality, it should be said that “Cuttie” was having more and more fun.) “When I am in the suit, I am Cuttie,” said Jon. I forget that I’m Jon. If you’re at a game and yell ‘Hey, Jon,’ I won’t even realize you’re talking to me. But if you yell for Cuttie, I’ll hear it.” Since Jon has begun to inhabit the lion’s skin, people have really begun to notice. “Jon Heidler has given Cuttie an identity,” said Clarke Athletic Director Curt Long. “Jon’s energy and creativity is visible in Cuttie’s persona. Cuttie is happy and enthusiastic. He enjoys dancing and is acrobatic. Fans and the Crusader community have come to expect Cuttie to be lovable and approachable, and they are curious to see what Jon has planned for each performance.” As for “Single Jon,” the man inside the suit, over three years after his CONNECT week debut, he is still known on campus as “Single Jon,” even by students who were not around when he first earned the nickname. “I don’t introduce myself as being single anymore,” said Jon. “I go along with it if people still refer to me as that.” When asked what people know him as more, “Single Jon,” “Jon Heidler,” or “Cuttie,” he throws his given name out the door right away. “Definitely not Jon Heidler,” he said. It would have to be a toss-up between Cuttie and ‘Single Jon.’” Taking its toll Living the life of “Single Jon” has taken its toll at times, though. Sometimes people would get the wrong impression and mistake him for some sort of womanizer. Luckily, Jon felt that went away once people took the time to actually get to know him. Other times people were quick to judge him based on his nickname. “Over the years I have learned both from being known as ‘Single Jon’ and being ‘Cuttie’ to not care what others think,” said Jon. “I’ve learned a lot and that was a big one.” Yet there is one glaring problem he still has: “I’m still single,” said Jon. But the day Cuttie and “Single Jon” became one was a landmark day. “Once I was done that first day of being Cuttie, Katie Bahl, director of Alumni Relations at Clarke, pulled me aside and told me how good of a job I did,” said Jon. “Now Single Jon” was someone, or something, new. Even better, his old skills surfaced to help him out. Jon owns a pair of hockey skates.“Being Cuttie has opened up a few opportunities for me,” said Jon. “I got to skate as Cuttie on the ice during intermission “ I get bolder and have more ideas every time and need to process through my head if those ideas are good or not. ” Clarke Catalyst 2013 23 the Philadelphia Phillies before every appearance in of a Dubuque Fighting Saints game and play hockey the suit. against 14 other mascots!” The Fighting Saints have since offered Jon a position as a part-time Bernie the St. Bernard mascot for Mascot School? the team. For Jon, being known across campus by “People have told me I should leave Clarke and go everyone is what Clarke is all about. Because of its to mascot school,” said Jon. Others have told me to small size the campus is a tight community, and Jon not graduate so I can be Cuttie for years to come.” is proud to be a part of that. It’s hard when you get constant praise to not think “To be honest, Cuttie has changed much more even bigger. than Jon Heidler has,” said Jon. “When I am Cuttie, I “I’ve always wanted to become a vet,” said Jon. get bolder and have more ideas every time and need “But I’d be lying if I said the thought of being a proto process through my head if those ideas are good fessional mascot hasn’t run through my mind.” or not.” While Jon has found ways at Clarke to transform Following one of those instincts, Jon once himself into a better person, he has transformed climbed the referee stand after a volleyball match himself physically as well.. Jon has lost about 50 and tried to jump off and onto the bleachers. pounds in the past year and he is incredibly proud “That would have been a bad one,” laughed Jon. “I of it. come up with an idea and then started to process “I wanted to go scuba diving,” he said. “That is what would happen. There I was up on the ref stand what prompted the weight loss. I wanted to look debating whether I should jump or not. It’s a good good in a wetsuit.” thing that I didn’t.” In the fall of his freshman year, Jon never thought Cuttie will run into a few issues here and there. he would be known by three different names at He has been known to have his head fall off, which Clarke. Nevertheless, he took what he got and ran happened once when celebrating a basketball vicwith it. You used to see “Single Jon” at every Clarke tory. The feet of the suit are worn out, making it difsporting event with his face painted with crazy ficult to wear. But Jon always learns new things from colors and designs. Not anymore. No one has seen his experiences. He even has a mascot role model Jon at a game in a couple of years. Ë of sorts. He watches videos of the Philly Phanatic of 24 Clarke Catalyst 2013 TimeSaver student shares Clarke experience with family story and layout by kevin murphy photo by taylor shively A Family Affair Gabe Dominguez in the SAC with his father, TimeSaver student Roberto Dominquez. Clarke Catalyst 2013 25 ” As an older adult my family has been my passion and will continue to be so, but now I can add Clarke University to my list of things that matter to me. ” — Roberto Dominguez Growing up, the word “college” wasn’t even in Roa high value on education and the sacrifices we make berto Dominguez’s vocabulary and wasn’t something while holding down jobs and raising families can at he ever thought about throughout high school. times make it difficult to stick to a rigid schedule.” Roberto is a 44-year-old TimeSaver student who has Roberto comes to Clarke to study in the Atrium. “I like to do homework here because of the peacecome back to school at Clarke to get his degree. ful atmosphere,” he said. He sometimes brings his Roberto is originally from Joliet, Ill., and was work11 and 14 year olds with him so they can get their ing at Storage Tech when they needed someone to homework done too. He says they really enjoy going take a job in Dubuque on a two-year contract so he up to Clarke with their dad. decided to go for it. He worked the two-years but fell in love with the city of Dubuque and stayed. Roberto now works at IBM downtown as a systems A family of soccer fans service representative and has been working there Roberto and his family are a very big soccer family. for 17 years. “I maintain a territory that stretches “As a child I grew up watching soccer; my father and from as far west as Mason City, east into Illinois, and uncles played in leagues and the kids went to most north to parts of Wisconsin and south to Clinton games,” he says. “Although we didn’t play organized and Dubuque,” Roberto says. “I work with busisoccer, we had our own games and always enjoyed nesses and ensure their systems are performing by the sport.” His children all have played or will play doing hardware repairs and upgrades. I provide our and Roberto also coaches. “We’re big fans of the customers with 24/7 services.” Clarke soccer team; we didn’t miss a game this year,” His job has no specific hours-per-week limit so it he says. is difficult to manage with his courses. “On average Roberto coaches his children in the AYSO club I work 60 hours a week, but I really love my job,” he league and has coached five teams at a time. He has says. been coaching soccer for 17 years. “Coaching means doing something that takes my mind off of work Coming to Dubuque and more time I can spend with my children,” said Roberto met his wife, Dawn, an R.N. for Hospice of Roberto. Dubuque, when he first came to Dubuque and she As for the future, graduation is coming right was part of the reason he stayed here. Roberto and around the corner in May. “Part of the reason I went Dawn have four children together, ages 3, 4, 11 and to college was to be a good role model for my chil14. Roberto also has two children, 27 and 25 years dren and show them that you can go to college and old, but they are already moved out. earn a degree; it is possible,” said Roberto. “Going to “The children are a lot to handle with our busy life- college has made me interested in education and I style but we get through it everyday,” he said. Rober- want to do something involved in that field,” he said. to is working toward a bachelorsin applied studies/ “Otherwise I will just apply all the education I have leadership and management. “It consists of mostly received into the work I do now.” business classes,” he says. “It is a way to implement Roberto says he is a true role model for his chilour experience and emphasize knowledge that is dren and has enjoyed his time at Clarke. “As an older helpful in advancing a career into management. I adult my family has been my passion and will conenjoy my major; it really touches on a lot of different tinue to be so, but now I can add Clarke University aspects that go along with a liberal arts education.” to my list of things that matter to me,” says Roberto, “Being a TimeSaver student, I have enjoyed the “I feel as though I have become a part of Clarke. It teachers, the way they treat students with respect gave me an opportunity to learn and that’s all I asked. and value our experience,” Roberto says. “Most I am proud to be a part of this organization and the teachers will be understanding and flexible because values it holds. I will be sad to leave as a student but they realize that TimeSaver students in general place proud to forever be associated with Clarke.” Ë 26 Clarke Catalyst 2013 “Looking back on my time at Clarke. I would have stayed a year on campus. I missed a lot of events and other activities living off campus.” —Sergio Cruz Sports Management Major “I would have started freshman year with an accent. Just speak with a cool accent for two weeks around everyone and then just stop using it to see what people do.” —Tyler Oehmen Communication Major “I would have studied more as an underclassman. I would have done this so I feel more prepared to go out into the real world in three months.” “I would have spent more time with my friends. I spent a lot of time worrying about getting enough sleep to actually have some fun.” —Mary Collier Athletic Training Major — Bailey Halvorsen AT/PT Major If Only... Seniors tell what they would have done differently story by michael francis layout by joe arms photos by taylor shively “I would have liked to come here for more than just this year. I’m from Venezuela and I like it here and it helps that the people are very friendly.” —Luis Reyes Sports Management Major “I think it would have been fun to be part of the rowdy Benchwarmer crowd at the basketball games. I was a trainer for the men’s team so I had to act professional.” —Aurora Buschkamp AT/PT Major “I would have liked to advance in the playoffs for basketball. We had too good of a team to go out in the first round.” —Kris Brooks Philosophy Major “I would have spent more time with the guys on the basketball team. Now that the season is over I realize how close we all were.” —Luke Cassidy Sports Management Major Clarke Catalyst 2013 27 Heating 28 Clarke Catalyst 2013 It Up Senior Ian Hart leads the Benchwarmers in doing the wave during Breast Cancer Awareness Night at a basketball game. Benchwarmers fire up the action at Clarke basketball games story and layout by hilary van praag photos by taylor shively S o it’s game day as the Clarke Crusaders basketball team takes on the St. Ambrose Bees right in our very own Kehl center at Clarke University. You walk through the glass doors with a lei around your neck, your bright Hawaiian button up shirt, and your hula pants and sandals. You enter the gym where you see your fellow classmates dressed in the same attire. You can already hear some of the chants from the Benchwarmers as both teams take the floor to warm up. You head down the stairs to make your way through the student section where you find the perfect front row spot to stand with the other Benchwarmers. As the game begins, the first time out by the Crusaders calls for “the rollercoaster,” when leader Ethan Abney stands in front of the crowd as the rest of us sit down and pretend like we are on a rollercoaster, following what Ethan does. As halftime comes around, Clarke Catalyst 2013 29 Crusaders and Bees are at a tight match up. The Crusaders are now on defense, as the Benchwarmers begin the chant “D-DD-DEFENSE, D-D-D-DEFENSE.” It’s the Crusaders with a steal! As Kris Brooks goes up for a lay up, he is fouled and will be going to the line. All the Benchwarmers put their hands up and start the spirit fingers while the shot goes up…and “swish.” Crusaders are now in the lead. As the game is coming to an end, the Benchwarmers pull out their keys and start shaking them, targeting the St. Ambrose Bees to “start the bus.” 5, 4, 3, 2, 1… And the Crusaders come out with a victory! The players gather in front of the Benchwarmers student section and start the infamous chant “C-What?” “CU!” “C-What?” “CU!” What a great win for the Clarke basketball team and the Benchwarmers. Who are we? Benchwarmers is a student organization whose goal is to bring life to the student section during Crusader games and to help invigorate the team. The group was started by former baseball player and business major Justin Hass in fall 2009. Any student at Clarke is welcome to the Benchwarmers student section and encouraged to dress according to the theme to make things fun. Benchwarmers tries to create the best atmosphere for the players and fans during the game. To keep things interesting, the Benchwarmers have a different theme for each game such as Hawaiian night, CEO strictly business, neon, white out, camouflage, pink for breast cancer, ugly sweater, gold rush, ‘merica, hobo, and many more. Abby Markham, junior nursing major in the Benchwarmers, says, “Being a part of the Benchwarmers I feel at home; it’s a fun group to be a part of on a Wednesday night game.” Many students enjoy being a part of the Benchwarmers because it makes the games more enjoyable. The Benchwarmers do many things to make a difference at the games. There are a variety of different chants yelled throughout the game such as: “Scoreboard, scoreboard...” “Start the charter,” “You got swatted,” “Air-ball,” and many more. Some of the favorite themes for basketball games have been a white or gold out, Hawaiian/luau out, and Cholo. Students have said when they go all out with dressing up according to the themes for the games, they are much more enjoyable for them. From the other side of the court The teams say they can feel a difference in the environment when the Benchwarmers show up. Most athletes try to get many students and faculty to go to the games for support. “The Benchwarmers have a great impact on our team,” says basketball player and athletic training major Charles Deneen. “All the fans add to the excitement of our games and give us the extra adrenaline to play at a maximal level. They also have an adverse effect on our opponents through their heckling and cheering. The St. Ambrose game is a great example because when the crowd went wild during their free throws, they missed quite a few. We have the best fan base in the conference hands down and we hope that it continues.” “ Tyler Oehmen, communication major and the music coordinator at the sporting events, said, “The Benchwarmers do a wonderful job when they really try to get the people in to it. But it’s not every game. It’s really disheartening going to a big game and seeing everyone sitting down quietly. When people let go and get into games, they are 100 percent more exciting and gives a true advantage to Clarke. Ethan Abney does a great job leading the crowd sometimes, but Clarke and the fans are at their best when everyone is there and being LOUD!” Overall, everyone can see that the Benchwarmers take on a huge role at Clarke University. Vivian Bannon, campus visit coordinator in Admissions, says, “The Benchwarmers have a huge impact on the sports teams. They keep the crowd going. When the Benchwarmers are present, the players hear all the cheering and yelling which gets their adrenaline going and they play much better. When they are not present, you can feel how dead it is in the air and that is hard on the players.” The Benchwarmers make a huge difference for our sporting events at Clarke and they hope to keep this tradition going. So, make sure you follow @CUbenchwarmers on Twitter for the latest news and themes to help support the Clarke Crusaders! Ë The Benchwarmers make a huge difference for our sporting events at Clarke and they hope to keep this tradition going. ” Opposite page: Shorts Night at a basketball game; Benchwarmers president Ethan Abney joins the crowd at Neon Night. Below, Corporate Night. Clarke Catalyst 2013 29 Updates from Abroad Two Clarke professors share their Fulbright Scholarship adventures so far layout by erin daly photos contributed 'Hʋɠ&Oʋʁȴɏ&ʝPʛʦʜLʤɨ Clarke history chair Lynne Niznik with students at the University of Limpopo-Turfloop Campus, South Africa Wish you were here! The temperature is 86 degrees, it is Thinking, Differentiated Pedagogy, Intellectual Curiosity sunny, and the trees are in full bloom with the most wonand Research Writing. derful scents imaginable! Secondly, I am active in the creation of a program resultThe University of Limpopo is much larger than I ing from a directive of the South African national governexpected. It is about 864 acres and tucked into mountains. ment to establish a developmental program for first year Approximately 20,000 students are enrolled with about “at-risk” students who arrive at university underprepared. 5,000 first years. I live in a huge home surrounded by Most students at the university come from rural, impovmountains that I view from my balcony overlooking the erished local areas of South Africa and neighboring counswimming pool and have lots of room for visitors! tries. I coordinate and teach the Life Skills component. I My work is in two unique programs: The Centre for have 360 students divided into only two sections! Academic Excellence and the Extended Degree Program. I miss you and love you! With my colleagues in the CAE I offer workshops for faculty and students on Active Learning, Assessment, Critical 32 Clarke ClarkeCatalyst Catalyst2013 2013 /ʪʜȸɏ +ɰɸOɛ&Oʋʁȴɏ)ʢȲʑQGɡ Clarke art history professor Bryan Zygmont beneath the Zygmunt Bell in the cathedral in Krakow, Poland I have been in Poland since February 1. On the one hand, it seems as if I have just arrived. On the other, my mind attempts to convince me I have been gone for an eon. This comes from the excitement of living in a foreign country with new and stimulating things to see and do, and the sadness that comes from being away from family and friends, the Wunderbeagle, and my job at Clarke that I so love. The semester here at the University of Łódź is moving along at a quick pace. I am teaching two graduate-level classes, and the students have been nothing short of delightful. Many have come up to me after class and thanked me for my “American style of teaching.” The Polish style of teaching, it seems, involves sitting behind a desk and droning on as did the history teacher in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.” I might drone, but I do so in front of the desk. As Clarke professors are wont to do, I aspire to begin conversations during the course of a class. They were a bit surprised by this at first—what a concept! A teacher who cares that they are awake!—but they have responded wonderfully well. I have even convinced some to call me Bryan, although the majority of them cannot bring themselves to do so. There are many reasons why my particular academic discipline is among the greatest in the world, but here is one: going really cool places and seeing really cool things makes me better at my job. If you’ve taken ARHS 133 with me (Prehistoric to Gothic Art) and remember the Sainte Chapelle stories—“silence dans mon chapelle, s’il vous plait”—you know this to be true. And the great part about living in Łódź, Poland? I’m a short flight or a slightly longer train ride away from some really cool stuff. I want to see lots of it. I spent much of my first six weeks here making trips about Poland; I’ve been to Warsaw three times and to Krakow twice. But it’s high time to spread my Fulbright wings a bit, and plan other trips. Bigger trips. I have visited Prague and Munich, and in the next several weeks I will visit Paris and Amsterdam. I might squeeze in a trip to Berlin for good measure, too. And after the conclusion of the semester (which won’t happen here until the end of June), The Lovely Wife and I will do some travelling. I really hope to visit Spain and learn about the interaction of Christianity and Islam in places such as Córdoba. But I would also like to catch the night train from Krakow to Vienna and explore what many people call “The City of Music.” But don’t tell my wife. This is a secret. I send you all my happiest good vibes from Poland and best wishes for the successfully conclusion of the spring term. Do widzenia! %ʢ\ʋɚ Clarke Catalyst 2013 33 The view from behind the counter at the Cru’sader Cafe’ story by rolando sanchez illustration by emily schlueter I magine waking up at 5:30 a.m. on a Tuesday morning before the trash man gets to your house and the snow plow is barely touching the main streets. While most students are sleeping and the athletes in their respective sports are building an appetite during their morning workouts, the Crusader Café staff is hard at work, doing a variety of tasks to ensure a smooth day for its customers. Then imagine confronting the occasional customer who isn’t as patient or helpful as he 34Clarke Catalyst 2013 or she could be: Don’t be that customer. From the moment I walk into work on a Tuesday morning, I am greeted by fellow employees, Stormy, Laurie, Jeannie, Tammy and Jayne. A funny thing about these greetings—they seem to always lead to a long list of tasks I have to complete. Since Tuesday morning is “truck day,” when the SYSCO company truck drops off boxes of food, it means I get the honor of stocking the freezer. As a college athlete, lifting “ We don’t have maternal senses when it comes to knowing the milk machine needs to be filled. weights is on my everyday agenda, so having to stock a couple 50-pound boxes is a piece of cake, but when it is several 50 pounders, it can be monotonous and surprisingly tiring. Once I finish about 45 minutes of stocking boxes in a 7-degree freezer, I get started on preparing pizza. On average, it will take me three minutes to do a pizza. The dough is already prepared; I spread the sauce, cheese, the toppings, and wrap it up to put in the fridge for a later bake. I actually take pride in making the pizzas because I see people eat pizza every day, and I figure if I am going to be making something, I want it to be the best. After making pizzas for an additional 30-40 minutes, I am rewarded with a ten-minute break and complementary breakfast, usually consisting of a plate full of diced potatoes, four eggs, and some bacon, and I can’t leave out the Frank’s Red hot sauce mixed with ketchup for my eggs. After 10 minutes of “Sportscenter,” it is back to making the money. I wash dishes until my shift is done. Now anyone who has worked at a fast food joint knows how fast dishes pile up. All of the many utensils required for preparing so much food need to be soaped, scrubbed, rinsed, and put in disinfectant. Don’t be this guy When it comes to the other side of the counter, I have found many Crusader Café customers feel their needs are greater than those of other customers. They are wrong: just because a number after yours is called does not mean we started making their food before yours or that we forgot about you. It simply means whatever you have ordered takes longer. ” For example, if you decide to order a chicken cordon bleu, it takes the longest of all of our entrées, 8 to 10 minutes. So if you are in a hurry, I suggest you get a quick and easy sub and a salad or soup. Anything that has to be grilled or deep fried will take longer. And then there are those who complain about how long their food takes to arrive when it is actually already prepared and ready, but they are not listening closely to their number being called on the speakers, after being called two, three, and even four times on occasion. We do have rush hours Furthermore, during rush hours, if you are one of 50 customers, bear with the staff; they are trying to prepare your order as quickly and smoothly as possible. Be understanding of the situation. If your food takes slightly longer than usual, I’m sure your college education can help you figure out that there are 50 customers to six workers and the process might be slower than desired. And, if the chocolate or regular milk runs out, just let one of the workers know that it is out, because even though it is our job to make sure there is milk, this does not mean we have maternal senses when it comes to knowing the milk machine needs to be filled. A simple “Excuse me, Rolando, the chocolate milk is out,” beats walking off disappointed then returning in five minutes and finding the same empty machine. It would be helpful if you keep in mind that we want to give you your order just as much as you want to get it. Clarke Catalyst 2013 35 MAKING CONNECTIONS New program matches students with alumni mentors story and layout by erin daly photos by taylor shively 36 36 Clarke Catalyst 2013 “ Having someone focused on making sure a student is set up to succeed can prevent him or her from feeling lost. —Becky Herrig . W edding bells have a different meaning for Clarke student Shelly Graybill; the junior communication major wants to be a wedding planner. Luckily for her, a new program at Clarke has given her the opportunity to test her skills in her dream field. This year, Career Services and Alumni Relations have teamed up to begin an alumni mentor program. Becky Herrig, assistant director of Counseling and Career Services at Clarke, says the program was born from the suggestions of Clarke graduates who were eager to reach out to current students and to assist them in their college journey. From there, the alumni relations office helped match the graduates to students in similar fields and with similar career aspirations. “The alumni mentoring program offers the student an instant connection to Clarke,” Herrig says. “Having someone focused on making sure a student is set up to succeed can prevent him or her from feeling lost.” The program gives the students the chance to work with their mentor on resume and cover letter writing, job shadowing, and smart business and professional practices. Shelly was paired with JoAnn (Lavenz) Giese, Wedding Director at the Grand River Center in ” Dubuque, for her mentorship. Giese, a 2004 Clarke graduate, is the go-to person for couples who want to get married or have a reception at the Center and helps handle many of the details of couples’ special days. These details range from booking weddings and receptions to coordinating rehearsal dinners and bridal showers to working with the chefs at the River Center and helping with the River Center’s annual bridal show. Giese says that Clarke reached out to her because many students were interested in her line of work, and she jumped at the opportunity. “I wanted to help my alma mater in any way possible, so of course I said ‘yes,’” says Giese. She wanted to give students the opportunity to see for themselves the kind of work her job entails and to see if they would be a good fit for the work. The mentoring program is different than the internship program that Career Services currently offers in a few ways. The mentoring program cannot be used to earn credit, for example, and it lasts a whole academic year rather than a semester. While a few students are shadowing mentors in Dubuque, many have mentors all across the country, maintaining contact with their mentors through phone calls and Skype. Mentorships also place more emphasis on professional development than internships do, as Wedding Director at the Grand River Center JoAnn Giese (left) and Clarke junior Shelly Graybill. Clarke Catalyst 2013 37 the mentors and students discuss things like resume writing and building a network of connections, which may or may not happen during internships. Making it happen “ Once the word gets out about the program, I don’t see how anybody could say no. —Shelly Graybill ” 38 Clarke Catalyst 2013 get a job.” Shelly’s mentorship has also helped her see how central being able to connect with clients is in her chosen field, which she says can sometimes be challenging. “I realized the importance of being able to relate to people and making their views your ultimate goal,” she says. “What you personally want doesn’t matter; your client needs to be happy and it is the job of the director to make that happen.” Shelly’s desire to be a wedding planner made her a natural fit for a mentorship with Giese. “I have always wanted to be a wedding planner, but it was always pushed aside” she says. “I figured it couldn’t be made into a career, so I found other things I was interEager to hire her ested in.” She came to Clarke as The professional connections that an athletic training major, but it Shelly has made have also been a didn’t take her long to decide that rewarding part of the mentorship. it wasn’t for her and to realize that She was able to meet area wedding her longtime wish wasn’t going planners at the January bridal show, away. She changed her major to and she recently got a job at Cheryl communication and decided to Ann Bridals in Dubuque through pursue her dream career. her current internship at the “I want to be a wedding planDubuque Chamber of Commerce. ner because I love making people “Nothing bad will come from being happy,” says Shelly. “I would be paired with an alumni mentor,” helping the couple create the hapShelly says. “Once the word gets piest day of their lives together.” out about the program, I don’t see Shelly had already met Giese how anybody can say no.” through a mutual friend before her Katie Bahl, Clarke Alumni mentorship. When Giese learned Events Manager, is excited about of her interest in wedding planning, this new opportunity and hopes to she invited Shelly to her own wedsee it grow. “This year we had eight ding, which she planned herself, student/alumni matches,” says Bahl. this past November. Shelly says that “A lot of time was spent trying to being acquainted with Giese before match the students’ needs and interests with those of our her mentorship started helped her alumni. It was impressive that all feel more relaxed and confident eight of the alumni we asked to about her mentor experience, but participate said ‘yes.’ They were the casual relationship hasn’t preexcited to get more involved and vented her from learning some of share their expertise with the the nitty-gritty details of the wedstudents.” ding planning business and good The program is also designed to professional practices. help the mentors; by being paired Shelly attended a bridal show in with students with different backJanuary that included a tour of the grounds, mentors can grow in proRiver Center, food tastings, and more, to get a sample of the kind of fessional skills such as the ability to work that Giese does every day. She motivate others. Although she has only been says that her mentorship experipaired with Shelly since late in the ence has given her tips for getting fall 2012 semester, Giese says she hired in the wedding planning sees lots of potential in her mentee. industry. “I talk to JoAnn about my resume “She is very dedicated to her studies and eager to learn,” says Giese. “I and if she would hire me,” Shelly wish she was graduating this year says. “She really gave me conso I could offer her the position of fidence that what I have on my my assistant!” Ë resume is good and will help me Nia Arrives From graduation to a first job story and layout by rolando sanchez photos by taylor shively T o get to her interview at Clarke last summer, Nia Wilson, new Americorps VISTA worker at Clarke, would end up borrowing $160 so she could take a bus from Indianapolis to Dubuque since her car had broken down just weeks earlier. “I got on the bus at like 2 a.m. with a pillow, a bag, a hair wrap on my head, and jogging clothes,” says Wilson. After nine hours she was finally in Dubuque. “It was so hot and when I stepped off the bus I didn’t know who to look for to take me to Clarke,” she continues. Clarke sent (now retired) Career Services staff member Martha Intveld to pick her up. “Let me say, this woman has seen me at my worst,” Wilson says. “She brought me to the Crusader Café, and I went into the restroom and changed into my suit and took my hair wrap off. Everybody was surprised at how well put together I was considering I had a nine-hour bus ride, but only Martha knew the truth.” Graduating college is a huge accomplishment for anyone, but the scary part is what is going to happen after. For Nia Wilson, getting that highly anticipated job out of college came sooner rather than later. Wilson, 23, grew up in Gary, Ind., and would later attend college at Franklin College in Franklin, Ind. She majored in sociology and was a member of many clubs on campus. “I fell in love with sociology because I attended a liberal arts college and I had positive encounters with a variety of the sociology professors,” she said. “I noticed that if I learned more about how people functioned in groups, the knowledge would be beneficial in any career path.” Having a passion for her education has given Wilson the opportunity to see and meet various people along her path to employment. “I have been blessed to have met a lot of contacts through the job application process: networking with people in the field you are pursuing is the best thing you can do to set yourself up for success,” she says. After graduating last May, Wilson started looking for jobs right away, applying for positions at several universities across the nation. One afternoon she received an email asking her if she was still interested in a job at Clarke that she had applied for earlier. She replied with a yes, and she received a reply back moments later telling her to be at Clarke at 11 a.m. two days later. “I became confused, and wondered if they read my application because I live in Indiana,” said Wilson. “I can’t just up and be in Dubuque at a snap of the fingers.” Clarke Catalyst 2013 39 “ She knew that she really needed a job and riding the bus all the way from Indianapolis would win her some type of points. New Americorps staff member at Clarke Nia Wilson in the campus Multicutural Center. She was slightly nervous about the interview but she had confidence because she knew that she really needed a job and riding the bus all the way from Indianapolis would win her some type of points. “My motto is if I can get a faceto-face interview, I can definitely get the job,” says Wilson. Wilson’s confidence would pay off; she was offered the position. The tough part was trying to figure out where she wanted to go. Unknown to Clarke, she had already been offered a position in Remer, Minn. The people from Remer wanted her to contact Clarke and call off the interview, but she had already purchased a ticket to Dubuque. “I didn’t get to officially meet the people from Remer; I just had a phone interview, says Wilson. “The Remer folks gave me until the Tuesday after my interview at Clarke to make a decision. The problem was by Tuesday I had still not heard from Clarke.” She had to contact Clarke and tell them that she didn’t want to rush the process and she was really interested in coming to work at Clarke, but that she had already gotten an offer from someplace else. “I wouldn’t feel comfortable telling them no if there was not a possibility of me getting hired at Clarke,” says Wilson. How Clarke won her over That’s when the battle started over her. “Clarke told me that they were going through the technical motions but it looked like everybody really wanted me there.” Wilson says. “They just couldn’t let me know officially until the next day.” Unknown to either side, both places were telling her to contact the other and tell them she already made a decision to go with them. “I decided to take the job at Clarke in order to stay in an educational environment and because Dubuque was so beautiful,” says Wilson. Wilson says she has found the real world isn’t the big bad wolf most college graduates hype it up to be. Thinking the real world would chew her up and spit her out, she discovered that it was quite the opposite. 40 Catalyst2013 2013 40 Clarke Clarke Catalyst ” “The real world has embraced me in a way that I wasn’t sure it actually did to people,” says Wilson. “I am very thankful that this job has connected me to positive people, experiences and skills.” Wilson is also a community partner for the Multicultural Family Center in downtown Dubuque. At Clarke she helps build the foundation for the Service Learning program, while at the Multicultural Center she helps with volunteer recruiting and retention. Creating cultural awareness. Besides her regular 8 to 5 job at Clarke, Wilson takes time out of her day to assist at B.S.U. (B.L.A.C.K. Student Union) meetings and events to help raise cultural awareness at Clarke. While attending Franklin College, Wilson was a member of their B.S.U. club as well as a member of the swim team, and S.A.S.O.M. (Student Association for the Support of Multiculturalism), and Student Congress. She was most proud of her membership in the B.S.U. “I got to enlighten faculty and students about African American issues and history,” says Wilson. Because of her experience she was one of the advocates approached on how to structure the organization here at Clarke. Wilson strongly believes that cultural awareness is needed at Clarke, and the introduction of the B.S.U. this year is just a start of what it will become. “Cultural awareness is not only important to African American people, but it is important to all people in order to keep their histories and beliefs relevant amongst other groups of people,” says Wilson. Even though Wilson has landed a job she loves, she still has dreams for the future. She is open to the possibility of volunteering for the Peace Corps. “It is a wonderful organization and the opportunity would give me a chance to serve numerous people abroad,” says Wilson. She also has hopes of attending graduate school. “My belief and confidence that I will be successful no matter what has helped me make it this far. Persistence and drive will help you be successful.” Ë 11 Means M Drive D i • Pl Platteville, ill WI 53818 800.348.5515 • woodwardprint@wcinet.com website: woodwardprinting.com Specializing in high quality web and sheetfed printing, bindery, mailing and delivery services • Newspapers • Magazines • Catalogs • Newsletters • Brochures • Shoppers Building trusted partnerships through quality products, superior services and employee ownership. e f i l t n stude life! r u o y f o S R R YEA U O F T S E B THE Make these school sp irit athletics campus ministry counseling and care er center health services multicultural studen t services residence life student activities Pet The rapy nts sporting eve ay Snow D