2011 Summer WGA Evans Scholars Magazine
Transcription
2011 Summer WGA Evans Scholars Magazine
The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine WGA Directors, TOUR Stars Luke Donald, Mark Wilson New Scholar Class of 2011 Recognizing 30 Years of Co-ed Living SUMMER 2011 THISissue Summer 2011 Newsletter No. 141 The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine A publication of the Western Golf Association, Evans Scholars Foundation and Evans Scholars Alumni Association To change your address info@wgaesf.com or (847) 724-4600 to submit content Send story ideas, letters, pictures, event wrap-ups and more to alumni@wgaesf.com, or mail to: Western Golf Association, One Briar Road, Golf, IL, 60029 co v er story 12 news and notes Co-educational living 6 Celebrating 30 years in the Evans Scholars Program f eatures 2 Chairman Roger Mohr 8 President and CEO John Kaczkowski Editorial Staff 24 Editor Amy Boerema Fuller Editorial Assistant Nicole Thompson Gary Holaway Cover Co-educational living in 2011. Clockwise, from left: Evans Scholars Katie Johnson, Dev Patel, Luke Mehmeti, Diamond Greer and Kelly Nash. Photo by Charles Cherney Caddies to college The 2011 New Scholar class 16 A driving force A big year for WGA Directors Mark Wilson and Luke Donald A helping hand New Auxiliary Bishop Joe Binzer 20 pro f i les 22 Vice President of Communications 10 23 27 28 18 North Shore Country Club New Scholar profile Alfonso Gillette NBA referee Pat Fraher Alumni profile Special agent Jeff Kiser Victoria Golf Club, Caddie Manager spotlight, Hall of Fame Tournaments New partnership, tournament sites, event previews Scholarships BMW intern, Winter Outing recap, Scholar graduates Fundraising Match Play Challenge, Green Coat Gala, Named Scholars ot h er Club profile Alumni profile Caddies 29 Preview 2011 BMW Championship Mac Report Alumni news, Around the Loop Class Notes sharing our story In recent years, it has become more important than ever to share the story of the Western Golf Association and Evans Scholars Foundation. To that end, we present the newly named WGA Evans Scholars Magazine, formerly known as The Mac Report. Our Alumni-specific news and class notes continue to be included for Alumni in a section titled The Mac Report beginning on page 29. Our focus hasn’t changed — the magazine still includes organization news, as well as profiles on Evans Scholars Alumni. But our audience has. This twice-a-year magazine is now being sent not just to Alumni, but to all our supporters. And of course, our mission remains the same: Changing the course of a lifetime, one caddie at a time. People have called our program “the best-kept secret.” It’s about time we share it with everyone. caddies to college this 2 is The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine what i t ’s al Bob Rakow prepares to face the crowd at his Feb. 15 selection meeting. He will study business at Marquette University this fall. “This was my dream,” he says. an Evans Scholars selection meeting His one shot Bob Rakow had one thing on his mind the night of February 15. A finalist for the Evans Scholarship, the Beverly caddie knew that tomorrow — when he would face a press-conference style interview — was a make-it-or-break-it type of day. It would either be the day Rakow, a senior at St. Rita of Cascia High School, would impress “the green coats” — aka the WGA Directors — at his selection meeting, and earn a shot at winning a four-year ride to college. Or it would be the day he wouldn’t. “I was anxious and nervous,” he recalls. “I was planning answers in my head.” One of 12 candidates interviewed at the WGA selection meeting at The Beverly Country Club the next day, Rakow learned he would face questions from about 100 people. He pursed his lips. His palms began to sweat. His heart started to race. “I was definitely nervous when I had to shake hands with the people on stage,” he said. “My knees were shaking.” Once at the podium, he recognized a few faces and began to relax. Someone asked about his lowest golf score — an easy question. He focused on enunciating his words. He even managed a few jokes — and people laughed. A few days later, his dad texted him. The letter had come. He raced home from school, opened it — and breathed the ultimate sigh of relief. “Congratulations!” it read. “This was something I had been working so hard on,” says Rakow, who will attend Marquette University. “It means so much to my family. It was my dream.” l a b o u t Summer 2011 3 caddies to college About this year’s Evans Scholar winners: The 210 young caddies who will begin college this fall are aspiring teachers, doctors and business leaders. They include first-generation immigrants; some are the only ones in their families who will have gone to college. They have overcome financial hardships and family struggles. Now on the Profile of the typical recipient: The typical Evans Scholar winner in 2011 has caddied for four years with a total 175 loops. He or she has an a 3.7 GPA, a 27 ACT score and a family income of $58,000. verge of leaving home Thirteen states are represented in this year’s class, with for the first time, they one winner from Canada. The Beverly Country Club in are about to discover who they are, as college Chicago has six new Scholars, the most of any club. *These numbers represent the averages of all applicants, who are evaluated and compete on four criteria, including caddie record, academics, financial need and character and leadership, for the limited number of available Evans Scholarships. students and as young adults. They are the Evans Scholars class of 2011. 4 The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine For a full list of New Scholars, visit www.wgaesf.org 680 applicants for the Evans Scholarship in 2011 high school spotlight St. Patrick High School Chicago St. Patrick High School in 2011 had the largest number of Evans Scholars from any high school in the nation. Incoming university freshmen include Justin Cruz (Northwestern), David Dinkha (Northern Illinois), Kevin Lawnicki (Northern Illinois), Chris Mojek (Marquette) and Joe Netzel (Northern Illinois), pictured left with Principal Joe Schmidt. There are 75 students at the school who caddie at one of four nearby courses: Ridgemoor, Park Ridge, Oak Park and Bryn Mawr. 66 Evans Scholars from St. Patrick High School since 1957 4 “I am so proud of our students. They are such a positive symbol to our 75 student caddies who look forward to having an opportunity to apply for this prestigious scholarship.” St. Patrick High School Principal and WGA Director Joe Schmidt Dreaming to inspire Sets of twins in the New Scholar class of 2011. Here’s a look at one: Dylan Lyons never cared too much for golf. Neither did his brother, Tyler. Then in 2006, Tyler threw on a caddie bib at Ozaukee Country Club in Wisconsin and picked up his first golf bag. So did Dylan, and he fell in love with caddying and golf. So did Tyler. Then Tyler earned an Evans Scholarship. So did Dylan. Tyler and Dylan are identical, but they weren’t just born that way – they live it each and every day. “They do everything together,” said former Ozaukee golf pro Rich Tock. They played on their school’s golf team, edited the yearbook, volunteered for the same causes, ran a caddie mentoring program, and, when times got tough for their family, they stayed positive – together. This fall, they’ll pursue business degrees at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, together as Evans Scholars. “My identical twin brother and I have shared many experiences together as caddies,” Dylan said. “Little did we know that what was born out of financial need would instill in us a desire to develop a strong work ethic, and a love for the game of golf.” “Nothing is given to you. You have to work for it.”Jackie Fernandez’s parents told her this daily. The daughter of immigrants, she took full advantage of her parent’s dreams for a better life, earning a scholarship to Loyola Academy. She’ll study business at Marquette. “Through caddying, I see lawyers, businessmen and doctors who have succeeded. One golfer I admire constantly insisted I do well in school and challenge myself. I hope one day I’ll be the one on the golf course inspiring young caddies, just as she did for me.” Applications available soon online! Evans Scholarship applications for the 2012-13 school year will be available online after Aug. 1 at www.wgaesf.org. The sponsoring club will provide the password and instructions. 15 WGA selection meetings held around the country for 2011 applicants, including one at the headquarters of The Northern Trust Company in Chicago. Summer 2011 5 caddies news & notes Alex Adams will attend the University of Colorado this fall. g olf clu b spotli g ht Four years after reviving its caddie program, Victoria Golf Club in British Columbia has its first Evans Scholar. Lyle Stafford, The Times-Colonist I t was a daunting task, to reinstitute caddies at a club whose members were addicted to golf carts, WGA Director Berne Neufeld quickly discovered. engineering. “Now that we have our first Evans Scholar, it’s really brought it full circle,” Neufeld said. “The members are like, ‘A-ha! That’s what it’s all about!’” Some members at Canada’s “Having our first Evans Scholar The excitement was contagious. Victoria Golf Club immediately supported the idea of returning After Adams earned the has helped the members to using caddies — who had Scholarship, members understand what it’s all about.” been driven out by golf carts in congratulated him with a new -WGA Director Berne Neufeld the 1970s — while it took others laptop. They’re now focused longer to embrace the tradition on keeping the caddie program and appreciate its value. “Now strong, with some members even it’s a resounding success,” said Neufeld, who was starting a fund to help cover discretionary expenses for tasked with helping to develop the caddie program. caddies. “The members have become mentors for the caddies, Meanwhile, they’re spreading the word about the and they take a keen interest in them.” Evans Program to other clubs across Canada — one And now, four years after their initial plan began, club already has started a caddie program, and others the club has its first Evans Scholar: Alex Adams will are looking into it. “Having our first Evans Scholar,” attend the University of Colorado this fall and study Neufeld said, “shows them that this is real.” 4 8 clubs with their first Evans Scholar in 2011: Kemper Lakes GC Victoria GC Tippecanoe Lake CC The Golf Club Kildeer, IL Victoria, BC, Canada Leesburg, IN New Albany, OH Joey Greco Alex Adams Scott Smyth Sam Lambert University of Colorado University of Colorado Purdue University Ohio State University s who celebritie ied d once cad 6 The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine Bill Clinton Arnold Palmer Bing Crosby Don Shula John Madden Bob Hope Bill Murray Martin Sheen Source: CaddyDigest Gold star caddies The WGA will honor the nation’s top caddies through The Caddie Hall of Fame, an effort begun by the Professional Caddies Association. The Hall of Fame will highlight the tradition of caddying by recognizing junior caddies, caddie administrators and career caddies — those who used caddying as a stepping stone for success or whose involvement as a caddie or with caddies has positively impacted others. The Caddie Hall of Fame display will be located at WGA headquarters in Golf, Illinois, with a customized exhibit highlighting the names of all inductees. The Hall of Fame committee consists of WGA Directors and staff and PCA leaders. Caddie manager spotlight After his company dissolved in 1984, Walter Kowalczyk thought, “Where can I go where I won’t get dirty or have to work year-round?” The former caddie and machinist eventually arrived at Hinsdale Golf Club, where he has now been a caddie manager for nearly two decades. Q. What’s the best part of what you do? A. Mentoring the kids and getting to watch them grow — from when I get them at age 13 to when they go to college. I love working with the kids, watching them mature and get better at everything they do. Q. What’s the most challenging part of what you do? A. Dealing with the kids’ personalities, understanding who each one is and what they’re thinking. It can be challenging trying to get them to be the best they can be, but I see that as an important part of my job. I continuously try to build them up. Q. Anything funny ever happen during caddie training? A. Years ago, during a caddie orientation, I’m coming up to a ball I hit in the rough, and a kid gives me a putter. He says I’m on the green, so I should use a putter. He thought that everything green was the green! I thought that was cute. Q. What do you do in your spare time? A. I have no spare time in the summer! Now I’m close to retirement age; when I retire, I want to travel — England, Paris and Rome are on the checklist. 250 caddies in 2011 at Hinsdale, which had an increase of 40 percent more caddies than usual in 2010. WGA-member clubs with large caddie programs 350 325 240 Medinah Country Club Medinah, Illinois Olympia Fields Country Club Olympia Fields, Illinois Bandon Dunes Golf Club Bandon, Oregon Estimated number of regular loopers in 2011, according to caddie managers Walk it off! The Evans Scholars Foundation was honored with the “2010 Walking Golfer of the Year” award for its commitment to the walking game of golf, as chosen by The Walking Golfers Society. The organization was founded in 2009 to promote the benefits of walking while playing golf. It has more than 500 members across the U.S. and the world. Visit www.thewalkinggolfer.com for information. “We thank the Evans Scholars Foundation for encouraging our next generation of leaders to embrace golf as a walking game.” -Rob Rigg, founder of The Walking Golfers Society 7 “I have seen the benefits of the Evans Scholars Foundation. I love what they do and the opportunities they provide.” PGA TOUR Luke Donald No. 1 world ranking FedExCup Ranking: 4 PGA TOUR victories: 3, including the 2011 World Golf Championships-Accenture Match Play Championship (pictured) International victories: 5, including the 2011 BMW PGA Championship Currently resides: Northfield, Ill. Interests: Art, music, wine-making Getty Images A driving force 8 The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine On his caddie’s most important role: “I need to be able to rely on and trust him. A caddie must speak up when he thinks the player is doing something wrong.” On becoming a WGA Director: “Being based in Chicago for the last 14 years, I have seen the benefits of the Evans Scholars Foundation. I love what they do and the opportunities they provide.” On sending caddies to college: “I enjoy being part of anything golf-based. Through caddying, you can learn many life lessons. Everyone deserves a chance to go to college, and this particular scholarship combines golf and education, which is fantastic.” Mark Wilson FedExCup Ranking: 6 PGA TOUR victories: 4, including the 2011 Sony Open in Hawaii (pictured) Currently resides: Elmhurst, Ill. Interests: Spending time with family, watching The Office On the course, Mark Wilson and Luke Donald are having top seasons thanks to big wins in recent tournaments. Off the course, the two are WGA Directors who play a special role in helping to promote the Evans Scholars Foundation. On his caddie’s most important role: “To keep me focused when needed and relaxed when I’m not hitting a shot.” On becoming a WGA Director: “My wife and I wanted to support Evans Scholars for a long time, and being a Director gives me the opportunity to meet many deserving caddies who will go on to be successful in life.” On sending caddies to college: “Caddying is hard work. If a person puts in the necessary requirements to be up for an Evans Scholarship, then he or she is going to use their scholarship to their advantage, continuing to work hard in chasing their dream.” *Player statistics as of July 11, 2011 Getty Images PGA TOUR “Being a WGA Director gives me the opportunity to meet many deserving caddies who will go on to be successful in life.” championships news & notes 2011 Field Highlights •35 of the top 100 ranked juniors •33 states represented •6 countries and 8 state junior champions 94th Western For the first time, a JuniorAm was held during the tournament week, pairing two amateurs with two junior competitors. The event helped raise $25,000. 2011 winner Connor Black jun i or At 5’ 9” and only 140 pounds, 15-year-old Connor Black wasn’t the longest hitter in the field, but his solid short game carried him to victory on June 24 at the 94th Western Junior Championship at The Beverly Country Club in Chicago. The Katy, Texas, native, who will be a sophomore in high school in September, won by two strokes over Hunter Kraus of Germantown, Tenn. Futures sites 2012: CC of Florida (Village of Golf, FL), left 2013: Meridian Hills CC (Indianapolis), center 2014: Flossmoor CC (Flossmoor, IL), right First held in 1914, the Western triple play Junior is the oldest national junior Only a select group of clubs have hosted all three WGA championships: the Western Junior, Western Amateur and the BMW Championship (formerly the Western Open). championship in the nation. The Hinsdale Golf Club (IL) across the country each year. Midlothian Country Club (IL) Blythefield Country Club (MI) The Beverly Country Club (IL) Glen View Club (IL) 10 The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine Westmoreland Country Club (IL) Western Junior draws a field of the top-ranked male teenagers PGA TOUR stars such as Jim Furyk, Hunter Mahan and Rickie Fowler have won this tournament. 2012 BMW Championship Defending champion David Chung Western A mateur 109th Tickets for the 2012 BMW Championship, from Sept. 3-9, 2012, at Crooked Stick Golf Club near Indianapolis, go on sale Sept. 1, 2011. Tournament officials have already surpassed $3 million in corporate sponsorship sales. “We have received tremendous support from the Indianapolis community,” said WGA’s Vince Pellegrino. When: Aug 1-6 Where: North Shore Country Club, Glenview, Ill. 2014 BMW Championship Cherry Hills Country Club in Cherry Hills Village, Colo., will host the 2014 BMW notable players in the 2011 field Championship. Cherry Hills has hosted two U.S. Opens, Peter Uihlein: #1 ranked, 2011 Ben Hogan Award winner, 2010 U.S. Amateur champion two PGA Championships, a U.S. Women’s Open and a U.S. Senior Open. In 2012, Russell Henley: #3 ranked, 2010 Player of the Year the club will host its second U.S. Amateur. Patrick Cantlay: #2 ranked, T21 2011 U.S. Open David Chung: Western Amateur defending champion Scott Langley: 2010 NCAA Individual champion “Cherry Hills has served as a worthy venue for many of golf ’s finest championships and has been a loyal supporter of the Evans Scholars Foundation, which is the sole beneficiary of the BMW Championship.” -Vince Pellegrino, WGA vice president of tournaments Jordan Spieth: #1 ranked Junior player Known as “The Masters of Amateur Golf,” this championship showcases the rising stars of the game. It consistently ranks among the world’s top amateur tournaments. Western Golf partners with WWGA The WGA and the Women’s Western Golf Association are forming a new partnership in which the WGA will provide administrative support to WWGA championships beginning in 2012, leaders said in June. “This is the beginning of what we hope to be a long, mutually beneficial relationship,” said WGA President and CEO John Kaczkowski. “This partnership will provide long-term stability for our organization and tap into the wonderful talent and resources of the Western Golf Association,” said Linda Gilley, president of the WWGA. The WWGA promotes national amateur golf competitions for girls and women by hosting the Women’s Western National Amateur Championship and the Women’s Western National Junior Championship. Summer 2011 11 Evans Scholars chapter living in 2010-2011. Main picture, from left: Evans Scholars Dev Patel, Katie Johnson, Kelly Nash, Diamond Greer and Luke Mehmeti. Northwestern and Marquette Evans Scholarship Houses, respectively. Photos by Charles Cherney In 1981, the first group of women moved into Evans Schol and in doing so, changed the meaning of Evans Scholars ch in recognition of 30 years co-ed W hen three female Evans Scholars moved into the University of Michigan Scholarship House in the fall of 1981, it was a historic moment in the Evans Scholars Program. But Mary Bitkowski, Amy Wikol and Margaret Hearn weren’t thinking about that. They were more focused on their new set-up: triple bunk beds in the House’s lower level. “It was so comical,” Wikol recalls. “It was the classic dorm room, tiny! It was like camp. We loved it.” The women also loved what it meant — for the first time, female Scholars could fully be a part of Evans Scholars chapter living. That year, they were part of a group of seven incoming female freshmen — at Michigan and Michigan State University — with the first-ever opportunity to live in a Scholarship House all four years. The Michigan women, who remain close to this day, found themselves instantly surrounded by 60 big brothers. “It was a privilege to live in the House together,” Wikol says. “I remember WGA leaders saying it was really special, and I think it made sense as far as logistics and camaraderie.” Johnson and Nash are presidents at the larship Houses — hapter living. In the early 1980s, co-educational living was not common on college campuses. “It was a big deal,” recalls WGA’s Jim Moore, who was then serving as associate educational director of the Evans Scholars Program. Up to that point, 45 women had earned the Evans Scholarship — a path paved by Judith Cloos, the first female recipient (see next page) — and all had lived in their university’s dorms rather than in the Scholarship House. But the number of female Evans Scholarship recipients was increasing, and WGA leaders, who recognized that scholarship house living was a crucial component of the program, knew it was time to address the issue once and for all. continued First female President Christine Tuerk In 1986, Christine (Tuerk) Martin (Mich. ’87) was the first female elected to lead an Evans Scholarship House. “I was just another candidate,” she says. “Our Chapter had females living in the House for (a while), with some taking on leadership positions before me. They did excellent jobs, and there was never any feeling, that I sensed, of a need to prove myself (because I was female).” She also was the first woman elected an officer of the Evans Scholars National Committee, but an even bigger honor came in 1986 when she was named the National Evans Scholar Leader of the Year. in recognition of 30 years co-ed The Michigan and Michigan State Evans Scholarship Houses were natural first choices for co-ed living because of the way the buildings were set up structurally, with separate living areas that the women could use. Still, not everyone was sold on the idea. The WGA’s board vote on the matter was not without “thorough discussion,” Moore says, and he met some resistance from other parties. “There was little enthusiasm, only because it was so different,” he says. “Change never comes easy.” Practical jokes abounded — Vaseline on the doorknobs was a favorite, Moore recalls — “but we were fortunate to have a strong group of initial women.” Many of them, for example, were used to the role of “the only girl among all the guys,” whether it be from the caddie yard to their engineering majors, and this perhaps better prepared them for the transition to co-ed living, Moore suggests. Once the women settled in, “they became a great stabilizing influence,” Moore says. They also helped boost the chapters’ cumulative GPA. “There was little doubt in my mind that once it settled in, it would work,” he says. “There’s a lot to be said for the bonding and camaraderie that happens when you’re living inside the House.” The chapters at the University of Colorado and Purdue University were the next to break the -Zoe Pietrusiak Sundstrom barrier, in 1982 and 1983 respectively, and other Houses — depending on the structural design and other logistics — soon followed. Today, all of the Evans Scholars chapters, except for the Scholarship Houses at Miami University and Northern Illinois, are co-ed, and WGA leaders are working to address the issues that have prevented women from living there. “It is our goal that all Evans Scholars experience Scholarship House living in the very near future,” says Jeff Harrison, the organization’s vice president of education. That includes Scholars who attend universities without a Scholarship House. Northwestern University Evans Alum Zoe Pietrusiak Sundstrom knows what it’s like to be excluded from house living. “I felt like there was a lot I was missing out on by not being there,” says Sundstrom, who graduated in 1991. “There’s a lot to be said for the bonding and camaraderie that goes on. You’re 1954 First woman awarded an Evans Scholarship: Judith Cloos The 2011 Purdue senior class 54 1981 Women move into Evans Scholarship Houses “There’s a sense of accomplishment,” says Kelly Nash of being president of the Marquette Evans Scholarship House, “and at the same time, a sense of ‘I belong here.’” Evans Scholars chapter living in 2011 House living at Northwestern just not as much a part of the experience if you’re not in the House.” That changed her sophomore year, in 1988, when five women moved in. “We were very openly accepted,” she says. “For us, it was great to be able to wake up and be a part of the experience.” As women became more integrated into chapter living, they also ran for executive board positions. To date, a female has served on every position on the board, as well as in the positions of graduate resident advisor and faculty advisor. Historically, Marquette has had the highest ratio of female women living in the House; at times it has been more than fifty-fifty. Currently, Kelly Female Alumni Nash serves as president. “I ran for president because I wanted to do what I could to not only improve the House but make the Program better,” she says. 862 Female Scholars 195 This year, Nash is one of two female presidents from the 14 Scholarship House chapters, which she calls “kind of cool.” Her role becomes particularly apparent at special Program-wide functions with other Scholar leaders, who are mostly male, she says. “There’s a sense of accomplishment,” Nash says, “and at the same time, a sense of ‘I belong here.’” 1986 First woman elected Chapter President: Christine Tuerk 86 2004 First woman faculty advisor: Wendy Evans; there have been four more since 2010 Woman elected first National Alumni Association Chair: Mary Gallina O’Leary 10 Frst female Evans Scholar Judith Cloos Judith grew up in Hinsdale, Ill., skipping two grades in school and starting high school at age 12. She caddied at Edgewood Valley Country Club and was awarded the Evans Scholarship in 1954 when she was 16. After earning a business degree, she and her husband moved to Germany, where they raised a family. She died in 2008. Upon receiving Judith’s application, the WGA Board of Directors first had to create a policy of eligibility for female Scholars. In a letter dated June 23, 1954, then-Educational Director Mac McGuigan wrote to her: “Your application was the first that has ever been received from a girl caddie in the 24-year history of the Evans Scholars Program.” A precedent first had to be set before a decision on her acceptance could be made, he wrote. In a June 24 response letter, Judith expressed disappointment: “I’m sure you realize that a girl may have the same problems concerning finances at college as a boy.” On August 12, she was notified that she had, indeed, earned the Evans Scholarship. scholars news & notes BMW summer internship Illinois Scholar earns marketing opportunity Buy cool stuff in our new online store! BMW continued its Evans Scholars Internship Experience in 2011, offering Grant Stoffle, who will be a senior at the University of Illinois, the chance to assist the BMW and Mini regional teams in coordinating events and dayto-day activities, as well as marketing initiatives surrounding the BMW Championship. “I am extremely excited, and I am looking forward to putting my skills to the test,” said Stoffle, who is the president of the Illinois chapter, as well as president of the Evans Scholars National Committee. “I know I will learn valuable business lessons from the teams that I will be working with.” “Golf has been a huge part of my life, and having the opportunity to be involved with the planning of the BMW Championship is amazing.” BMW intern Grant Stoffle wrap-up Winter Outing Highlights: Northwestern New Scholars won the Roland F. “Mac” McGuigan Academic Trophy (below), which honors the New Scholar class with the highest GPA, the Michigan State men and Illinois women won the annual Scholar basketball tournament and Evans Scholars held their 59th annual Golf Ball formal at Hyatt Regency Chicago. 3.40 www.wgamerch.com Evans Scholar parents join the Par Club! In 2010, the Evans Scholars Foundation reached out for the first time to parents of Evans Scholars, asking them to consider becoming Par Club members. The initial goal was to raise $10,000. To date, nearly $73,000 has been donated by more than 320 Scholar and Alumni parents. The successful effort will be repeated this year. 320 New Par Club members in 2010 who are parents of Evans Scholars or Alumni GPA Coming soon: Users will be able for NU New Scholars in fall 2010, earning them the Academic Trophy to log in online, update a personal profile, post and search for jobs and sign up for Evans Scholar events! www.wgaesf.org 16 The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine 2011 Evans Scholars graduates High Five! Wisconsin Scholar Nate Cira graduated in May with five majors — yes, five! When Nate Cira started college, the plan was to get in and get out quickly. With the college credit he amassed in high school, he figured it would take three years. But after living in the Evans Scholars House, his plan changed. “I was enjoying my time in Madison, so I decided to stay and just take more courses,” Cira said. “Then I thought I’d pick up an extra major.” Turns out, he graduated with five. Cira’s childhood passion for taking things apart morphed into conducting experiments and research as a young adult. At the University of Wisconsin, he has won invention competitions, conducted research projects at a local ER that resulted in new medical discoveries, and even worked with NASA to build a rocket. 200 Evans Scholar seniors graduated in May. Many are going on to graduate school; others have jobs in fields including business, teaching and consulting. Now with degrees in biomedical engineering, biochemistry, biology, microbiology and molecular biology, Cira is headed to Stanford, where he will pursue a Ph.D. in bioengineering. He ultimately hopes to either become a professor or start a business selling his inventions. Beyond innate curiosity, Cira says the Scholarship motivated him to succeed. “It was such a gift,” he said. “I felt like people had made an investment in me. This is my way of honoring that investment.” Read Nate Cira’s full story online at www.wgaesf.org top leaders Giving back! Each year, Evans Scholars make community service a priority. They jump into freezing lakes in the winter, shave their heads bald, run and bike long miles in the hot sun and host holiday parties and haunted houses — all in the name of charity. Their work From left: Michigan’s Patrick Brinnehl, secretary; Illinois’ Grant Stoffle, president; Missouri’s Patrick Miller, vice president; Ohio State’s Tom Rist, treasurer. Na t io n a l Com m i t t e e The Evans Scholars National Committee was created in 1960 for Scholars to share ideas across chapters. It includes a president and executive board representative from each of the Program’s 14 chapters who meet throughout the year, and a national board, pictured above. has benefited everyone from victims of cancer and domestic violence to those in need of their next meal. “We have been given so much through this Scholarship,” said Kelly Nash, president of did you know 650 Pints of blood were donated in the 2011 Evans Scholars blood drive from 14 chapters. the Marquette Scholarship Chapter, “and it’s important for us to make our own lasting impact on the community.” Summer 2011 17 2011 BMW Championship did you know $9 million The amount of money raised by the BMW Championship since 2007 for the Evans Scholars, its sole charity Pro-Am event Evans Scholars and Alumni will caddie for the amateurs in the Gardner Heidrick Pro-Am on Wednesday, Sept. 14, to raise funds for the Evans Scholars Foundation. This will mark the sixth consecutive year Alumni and Scholars have caddied for the Pro-Am players. Last year, the caddie flat rate and tips added up to more than $16,000, part of the total $1.2 million raised for Evans Scholars during the 2010 Pro-Am. Tournament initiatives In 2011, BMW will continue its tradition of providing a four-year Evans Scholarship for the first hole-in-one made during the BMW Championship. Military personnel will be admitted free all week. A hospitality venue will be available for military personnel and their families. Juniors 16 and under also will be admitted free any day of the week when accompanied by a ticketed adult. The BMW Championship is offering upgraded Premier Parking passes available for $25 per day Thursday-Sunday. 18 The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine 2007 and 2009 champion Tiger Woods Who’s “The BMW Championship’s prime positioning as the penultimate PGA TOUR Playoff event offers fans the opportunity to witness firsthand one of the year’s most memorable and entertaining weeks of golf competition.” -WGA’s Vice President of Tournaments Vince Pellegrino Star volunteer Mel Krejci (Ill. ’60) has been volunteering for the BMW Championship (formerly the Western Open) for 50 years. It began when he was an Illinois Evans Scholar; now, from the parking lot to the scoreboard, he knows the drill well. And in December 2010, he was recognized for it when the PGA TOUR named Krejci the 2010 Volunteer of the Year for his 50 years of service. How did you feel when you first found out? Shocked. There’s probably about 2,000 volunteers every tournament. To be picked out of that crowd, it’s amazing. I didn’t know whether I should jump for joy or cry. When you put in that number of years, you never think about anything like this; you just think about giving back. 2008 champion Camilo Villegas next? Why did you start volunteering? 2011 BMW Championship Where: Sept. 12-18 2010 champion Dustin Johnson Growing up, kids could play at Riverside Golf Club for 75 cents, and my mom would take us. Then I started caddying. I heard about the Evans Scholars Program, and I thought it would help my family because my dad just got back from the war. Winning the Scholarship allowed me to go to college. This is my way of giving back. When: Cog Hill Golf and Country Club How long will you volunteer for? in Lemont, Ill. Everybody says, ‘You’ve been doing this for so long; don’t you get tired of it?’ Sometimes I do, but there are just so many nice people there. They’re the best group of volunteers in the country. I’ve made a lot of friends. Featuring: The Top 70 PGA TOUR players vying for the final 30 spots in the TOUR Championship and a chance to win the FedExCup’s top prize of $10 million. To buy tickets, visit www.bmwchampionshipusa.com Summer 2011 19 fundraising news & notes Match Play Challenge Doubling dollars for Scholars Five generous Evans Scholars supporters have pledged to match Par Club gifts of $2,500 or greater up to a total of $1.5 million. This new Match Play Challenge initiative aims to raise $3 million in operating funds for the Western Golf Association and Evans Scholars Foundation: $1.5 million from major Par Club gifts and $1.5 million from the five Match Play Partners. The Challenge expands on the Par Club’s traditional grassroots support by reaching out to donors who are willing and able to contribute at more than the basic Par Club giving levels. The WGA is working on additional Match Play Partner commitments that would allow the Challenge to continue to match major Par Club gifts beyond 2011. Match Play Partners WGA Directors Mike Keiser and Jerry Rich Evans Alum and WGA Director George Solich WGA Evans Scholars Supporters Kevin Flynn and James Perry Making your annual Par Club contribution is easier than ever when you enroll in automatic monthly giving! Also use our lookup tool to see if your company matches gifts! Visit www.wgaesf.org for details. A return to Bandon Dunes $200,000 raised for Evans Scholars The second annual Evans Scholars Foundation Charity Retreat at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort in Oregon took place May 3-5, with guests enjoying private jet service, gourmet meals and rounds on all four world-class courses. The event again raised $200,000 for the Evans Scholarships. The third annual retreat is set for May 8-10, 2012. northwestern capital campaign wrap-up Futures on Course $7.8 million raised, making it the most successful campaign in Evans Scholars’ history. The campaign is ongoing; contact Jerry Dudek at (224) 260-3730 or dudek@wgaesf.com for info. 20 The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine NU House earns award The renovated Northwestern Evans Scholarship House was recognized in May by Evanston City Council leaders with a 2010 Preservation and Design Award for a Sensitive Addition. Reviewers gave positive marks on the entry, window detailing and the reusing of materials. PantoUlema Architects and Bulley and Andrews worked on this project. Leaving a legacy Inaugural Green Coat Gala planned for fall The Chick Evans Society honors donors who have made a planned gift to ensure the legacy of the Evans Scholars Foundation. A gift can be made through a bequest in a will or by designating the Foundation as the beneficiary of an IRA or life insurance policy. A planned gift allows the giver to communicate his or her legacy intent and the Foundation to recognize their generosity today. The WGA’s inaugural Green Coat Gala to benefit the Evans Scholars Foundation will be held Friday, Nov. 4, at The Peninsula Chicago. “Our caddies are special young people. They have had good training, come from fine homes, and have a desire to further themselves after their caddie years. The Evans Scholars Foundation provides them this opportunity.” Sponsorship options for tables are available; call Fran Haas at (224) 260-3722 for information. -Doug West, a WGA Director from Midlothian Country Club (Illinois), who recently made a $25,000 tax-free charitable gift from his IRA. The event, presented by Northern Trust and ITW, features the World Golf Hall of Fame’s Curtis Strange as the special guest. Strange won the 1974 Western Amateur and the 1988 and 1989 U.S. Opens. Today, he is a golf analyst for ABC and ESPN. 275 Chick Evans Society members A personal relationship The first Named Scholar Luncheon was held June 22 at Glen View Club, giving donors and Scholars the chance to meet. Supporters who make a gift through an Endowed Named Scholarship have a unique opportunity for a more personal relationship with an Evans Scholar. For a gift of $125,000 to the McGuigan Endowment Fund, an Endowed Named Scholarship is created in your name or in the name of a selected person or club. “Named Scholarships are an important way to continue the Evans Scholars tradition. As long as a club has a qualified caddie, it’s a way for them to support the Program for their caddies and a way for the caddies to know their club is supporting them.” -WGA Director Fritz Souder, Wequetonsing GC Leading Named Scholarship clubs: Beverly Country Club (IL) with six, Wequetonsing Golf Club (MI) with four, Evanston Golf Club (IL) with three. 75 Total Endowed Scholarships as of July 2011 by a club or individual, a 650% increase in the past seven years. Endowed Named Scholar After her husband passed away, Janine Chesrown could think of no better way than to honor his passion for golf with an Endowed Named Scholarship. Now, she and her Named Scholar, Margaret Bauer, who caddies at Riverside Golf Club where the couple were members, share a special relationship and email regularly. “I’m very impressed with her work ethic,” Chesrown said. “It makes me feel good that I’ve been able to be part of that experience.” Bauer, a senior at Michigan, feels the same. “I see her as a role model,” she said. “If it weren’t for her support and belief in my ability to succeed, I would not be the person I am today.” Summer 2011 21 North Shore Country Club is a big supporter of championships and scholarships. This year, it hosts the Western Amateur. And every year, it develops and nurtures young caddies, allowing them a shot at earning an Evans Scholarship. Championing golf & education Dan Dinelli with North Shore Country Club club profile A rich history at a glance Designed by the legendary golf course architecture firm of Harry S. Colt and Charles H. Alison, North Shore is a Chicago-area classic that measures 7,103 yards and plays to a par of 72. Opened to members in 1924, the club has hosted the 1928 Western Open, the 1933 U.S. Open, the 1939 U.S. Amateur and the 1983 U.S. Amateur. It also has been the site of U.S. Open qualifiers and other significant events, including the 2010 Windon Memorial, a major collegiate tournament. Over the years, the club has made a point of preserving the spirit and aesthetic of the original design while adapting the course to improvements in today’s club and golf ball technology. The firm of internationally-known golf course architect Rick Jacobson – who caddied at North Shore as a teen – has led the preservation effort for the last 17 years. 22 The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine 40 North Shore Evans Scholars and Alumni 5 Major tournaments hosted by the club 5 current North Shore WGA Directors “We accepted the invitation to host the Western Amateur solely based on what the Western Golf Association and the Evans Scholars Foundation stands for, and our long history of support with 40 Evans Scholars having caddied at the club over the years.” -North Shore WGA Director Frank Morley, who also is chairman of the WGA’s tournament committee scholar profile “College is a possibility. No one in my family has accomplished this.” “We were living in a cramped, two-bedroom apartment in the worst part of Cincinnati. There were homicides daily, constant police sirens and the neighborhood was riddled with drug dealers. One spring, no one could go outside because there was a huge riot going on for a week and a half. I was ready to get out of that place.” For 11 years, this was Alfonso Gillette’s life. Now, he is on his way to Ohio State University looking to pursue a career in broadcasting as an Evans Scholar. Alfonso’s mom always made sure he stayed on the right path. She kept him in school and, when things got too rough by their apartment, made sacrifices to move the family into a safer neighborhood. When Alfonso was a freshman in high school, she found out about a caddying program at Cincinnati’s Maketewah Country Club. Even though he knew nothing about the game of golf, he headed off to caddie training that spring. “Alfonso had a strong desire to work and refused to fail,” said club caddie manager Joseph Healy. Caddying taught him to hustle. “That’s what they like to see — not slacking off; always working hard,” Alfonso said. He became one of the club’s favorite caddies, according to Joe Desch, WGA’s Ohio Evans Scholars Chairman and Maketewah member. As he gained confidence, his caddying abilities — and academics — improved. Upon graduation, Alfonso was a member of the National Honor Society and ranked number two in his class. “I want to be somewhere in life, and I know this scholarship can help me get there.” -New Evans Scholar Alfonso Gillette Once a shy kid on the course, Alfonso now loves the spotlight. “I gave a speech at my graduation, and I was always the master of ceremonies for high school productions. I love to talk,” he says. “A college education will expose me to precious opportunities that those around me can only dream of,” Alfonso wrote in his application essay. “In turn, I will come out a man who has lived on both sides of the spectrum. I’ll have the ability to show those in my community that college is a possibility for them, too. No one in my family has accomplished this. I want that to change with me.” Summer 2011 23 A helping hand Father Joseph Binzer, a Miami University Evans Scholar Alum, is the new Auxiliary Bishop for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati D by amy boerema fuller ecades before he felt a calling to devote his life to God, Joe Binzer already had dedicated his life to service. In 1972, in his application for the Evans Scholarship, Binzer, then 17 years old, wrote in neat, cursive handwriting: “I wish to go to college in order to further myself both as a student and as a person, in order to be able to help someone who may be in need in later life.” He didn’t know it at the time, but Binzer, in later life, would be in a unique position to help thousands. From caddie to college student, and later from public accountant to priest, the many roles of his life have helped prepare him for his current and most important role of all: Auxiliary Bishop for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Bishop Binzer was ordained on June 9 at the Cathedral of Saint Peter in Chains in Cincinnati. In his new role, he helps the Archbishop of Cincinnati in leading the region, which includes almost half a million Catholics and hundreds of parishes, schools, hospitals, agencies and institutions. “It’s been humbling and a great blessing,” Binzer says. “It’s something I never would’ve anticipated.” As a child, Binzer never dreamed of becoming a priest, but faith always played an important role in his life. He grew up in a large family with six siblings and attended Catholic grade and high school. Even then, he was viewed as a leader. One younger sister, Jane Moore, recalls how he once took the blame on behalf of another sibling for messing with their father’s tools. “That’s the kind of person he was,” she says. “He’s always been a peacemaker, and he always tries to see the best in any situation.” One summer, his father, who didn’t tolerate laziness, encouraged Binzer and his brother, Tom, to caddie at the nearby Clovernook Country Club, a mile from home. Binzer recalls coming home from training early one day, and his dad promptly sent him back. “If you’re going to be sitting around doing nothing,” he told his son, “you might as well go back there.” Binzer was a hard worker in the classroom, as well, always getting top grades. Tom Binzer recalls the first day of grade school when a teacher, upon learning he was Joe’s brother, said, “You’re going to be one of the smart ones.” The brothers both earned the Evans Scholarship to Miami University. In college, Binzer served as a chapter vice president for two years and earned the Program’s distinguished Ames Award as a senior, based on votes by his peers. He also earned the nickname “Bugs,” his brother recalls, because as vice president in charge of house maintenance, “he was always bugging people to do their (cleaning) jobs and do it right.” As a leader, Joe knew when to have fun, Tom Binzer says, but he also knew when it was time to be serious. As a college senior, Binzer tried to make an early donation to the WGA Par Club, which was quickly returned because at the time, money wasn’t accepted from Scholars who were still in school. He became a life Par Club member in 1986 and later served as a WGA Director for 11 years. In a letter to WGA leaders in 1986, Binzer wrote: “I truly feel that the Evans Scholars Program has been the big difference in my life, and I’ve tried not to hesitate in letting people know that when I describe the Program to them.” After college, Binzer worked as a CPA at Arthur Young & Co. In 1986, he was having lunch with a client — the then-executive director of the regional Catholic Charities — when the client suggested Binzer become a priest. “I was stunned,” he recalls. “One minute, we were talking about financial statements; the next, he was saying, ‘You know what you should do with your life?’” But something had resonated. Praying for guidance, Binzer enrolled in Bible classes to see if it was something he wanted to pursue. In 1988, he enrolled in the seminary. “I was obviously surprised,” Tom Binzer recalls of hearing the news, “but there was never a thought continued Above: Binzer, after being ordained as Auxiliary Bishop for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Right: Binzer prostrates himself while the congregation sings and asks the blessing of God and the saints upon him. Below: Binzer’s personal coat of arms, designed specifically for him as the Auxiliary Bishop of Cincinnati. Photos by Mark Bowen continued from page 25 in my mind that he was making a mistake.” He also had surprised someone else — Roland F. “Mac” McGuigan, the WGA’s then-educational director. “After recovering from your bombshell decision, I realized that your future marriage to the priesthood made much sense,” McGuigan wrote. “You have the required character, temperament, compassion, convictions, personality and integrity. My prediction is that you will be one hell of a great priest!” On June 4, 1994, Binzer was ordained a priest. Soon afterward, Binzer told the Cincinnati Enquirer that his ultimate goal was “to help people appreciate the love God has for them and to simply accept people for where they are in the faith journey — to recognize there are people struggling with their faith and others who are ecstatic about where they are. I just want to help people in whatever way I can.” “As I look back, I have 77 A helping hand 1977 Joe Binzer graduates from Miami University with a degree in accounting. 1988 Binzer enters Mount St. Mary’s Seminary of the West at the Athenaeum of Ohio in Cincinnati. Binzer in high school, 1971 been incredibly blessed She recalls how the children would flock to him on the church playground. “It was really something,” she says. “They would wrap their arms around his legs. He was a magnet.” And she has no doubt he will be a success in his new role. “He will be the people’s bishop,” she says. “I think people will respond to him the same way they have always responded to him, wherever he goes.” Binzer was stunned the day it was announced he had been selected to be the next auxiliary bishop. So was his family. “It’s been very humbling for us all,” says Tom Binzer, a current WGA Director. And he hasn’t forgotten his roots, which include caddying and earning the Evans Scholarship. To this day, he remains close with many of his Evans Scholar brothers. “As I look back, I have been incredibly blessed throughout my whole life,” he told The Catholic Telegraph. “I see my vocation as a blessing, and not as a job or a career. I am truly grateful, and I continue to ‘hope in the Lord,’ now and forever.” Binzer types a paper for seminary in 1993 1994 Binzer is ordained to the priesthood for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati Left: Binzer at his priest ordination ceremony. Below: Binzer with Evans Scholar Alums at the reception. 2011 11 In his new role, he assists the diocesan bishop, who is designated by the Pope to lead a particular region. He’ll attend parishes for special ceremonies and teach at schools, among other responsibilities. As he always has, Binzer feels tremendous gratitude for the opportunities he has been given. “There are things I feel blessed to have a chance to do,” he says. “God always gives me the grace to help me to do what I’m supposed to do in a particular circumstance.” The Athenaeum of Ohio 94 Since then, that’s exactly what he has done. For the past eight years, throughout my whole life.” Binzer served as chancellor of the - Father Joseph Binzer Archdiocese, answering questions about church law and overseeing child protection programs. Both the adults and kids at his parishes adored him, friends say, with his kindness and sense of humility particularly resonating. “Joe is one of the most genuinely humble men that I’ve ever met,” says Mary Jo Neumann, a parishoner and family friend who has worked with him in various capacities over the years. “He’s also very down-to-earth and very real. He understands how to bring your faith down to an everyday level.” Binzer is ordained as the 11th Auxiliary Bishop for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. alumni profile Calling the shots A Minnesota Evans Alum spends his days on the court, clashing (sometimes literally) with some of the NBA’s biggest stars A quick chat with professional basketball referee Pat Fraher (Minn. ’96), who has worked more than 280 games in the NBA. How did you become a referee? I began when I was 15 years old with my dad. At 17, I refereed my first high school varsity game. Two years later, I attended a summer camp in Las Vegas run by three NBA referees. After having a crazy game with nine technical fouls and five ejections, I was on their radar. I worked in the CBA and WNBA before coming to the NBA in 2001. This year, I made it to the Western Conference semi-finals. How do you deal with people getting in your face? Conflict’s part of the job. There are certain lines they can’t cross, and when they do, it’s simple – they get a technical or an ejection. The tricky part is when they don’t cross the line; they bring it to the edge and try to break your concentration. Then you have to warn them. I have the same problem with my 4-year old. The more excited they get, the more composed we have to be. How do you break up fights between players? You try to get in as quick as you can, but once they start throwing punches, get out of the way. You’re not going to stop a 260-pound, 6’ 10” guy once they start going at it. What’s the most challenging part of the job? With the level of scrutiny we’re under, the expectations are impossible. The expectation is perfection. You’re human, so you’re in a no-win situation. You’ll always fall short. It’s no fun when you wake up and see yourself on SportsCenter. It’s not like they’re going to show a clip of you making a good call. How do people react when you tell them your job? They’re curious. It’s a unique job. There are only 60 of us in the world. They ask who the toughest coaches and players are. The veteran coaches tend to be toughest because they have the seniority and experience of how to interact with the referee. Larry Brown could be difficult, Phil Jackson could be tough, also Jerry Sloan. We’ve got an influx of younger coaches coming in, so I’m looking forward to that. What’s your favorite part of the job? Top: the officiating crew for Game 3 of the Western Conference Semi-finals; Pat Fraher, second from right. Above: Game 5 of the first-round Denver/ Oklahoma City matchup. The playoffs – the intensity can’t be matched anywhere. My second favorite part is right after the playoffs – the offseason! -by Nicole Thompson Summer 2011 27 alumni profile Jeff Kiser with his dog Reno at training. Only six other people in the world do what Michigan State Evans Alum Jeff Kiser does — he’s a federal agent with a special kind of partner. ATF. Reno is an expert at sniffing out the bad guys. Literally. He specializes in detecting human scent. Special agents Special agents Jeff Kiser (MSU ’86) and Reno knew they were hot on the suspect’s trail. And the police call from all across the nation. While Kiser and Reno are meant to focus on the Midwest, they travel to all corners of the country because there are so few dogs that do what Reno does. They’d been tracking the runaway killer down the streets of Detroit for two and a half hours, and Reno knew they were closing in. Then suddenly, the trail was gone, replaced by the scent of gasoline and burnt rubber. The criminal had escaped. “Reno probably has about 300,000 air miles,” Kiser said. “He loves flying. He’s like a little kid going for a car ride. He flies in the cabin with me. He lays on the ground and goes to sleep. A lot of passengers will say they didn’t even know there was a dog on the plane.” But not everyone is so lucky. Kiser has always wanted to work in law enforcement. He graduated in 1986 as an Evans Scholar from Michigan State University, which has one of the nation’s best criminal justice programs. “A lot of times, Reno will chase someone down and apprehend them, which is a nice way of saying he bites them,” Kiser laughed. “There’s always that split second on every deal where I see the guy look at Reno, and they just give up. It’s exciting.” Kiser has a job only seven people in the world have. He’s a special agent with the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, but his partner makes him a unique kind of special agent. His partner’s name is Reno, and he’s a 4-year-old German Shepherd. Kiser and Reno specialize in highrisk missions, “the worst of the worst,” Kiser says. They execute arrest and search warrants for the 28 “When people need help, they call the police,” Kiser said. “When the police need help, they call us.” The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine “I don’t know if I would have been able to go to college if I didn’t get the Evans Scholarship,” Kiser said. “It’s one of the prerequisites for the job to have a four-year degree.” Kiser started working for the ATF in 1987, just one year out of college. He started working with Reno three years ago. “I’m a dog lover to begin with,” Kiser said. “But to go to work every day with my dog, to train him and watch him learn and grow is a very rewarding position, the most rewarding job I’ve ever had.” -by Nicole Thompson the mac report Sharing the news The newly named WGA Evans Scholars Magazine gives the WGA/ESF an exciting new platform to showcase the Evans Scholars Program to a much larger audience. Sharing the stories of the Alums and Scholars, along with the successes of the Program, with all members of the Evans Scholars family is vitally important. The Mac Report section continues specifically for Alums and Scholars. Sharing the stories of Alums and Scholars with all members of the Evans Scholars family is vitally important. National Alumni Association Chair Mary Gallina O’Leary and her leadership team have been diligently working on the restructuring of the Alumni Association. There are great new opportunities to get involved, contribute to the Program and to stay connected with your fellow Alums. Also, the technology upgrade at WGA/ESF is nearly complete and the Alumni log-in and private section of the website is close to being ready. Stay tuned for details. You will be pleased to know that the regular Par Club giving levels were increased in 2011 to match the Alumni levels. Alums continue to lead the way in giving to the Evans Scholars Foundation. Making a alumni news and class notes lifelong commitment Association recap •The restructuring of the Evans Scholars Alumni Association is nearing completion W ith more than 100 Evans Scholar Alumni leaders in place, including a national board, the newly restructured Alumni Association has started its work in strengthening Evans Scholars relationships. “This is a year of transition as we get all the building blocks in place,” says Mary Gallina O’Leary (OSU ’87), National Alumni Association Chair. “A main focus of ours is helping Alumni to recognize that the Evans Scholarship is about so much more than just a college education. It is an experience that changes the trajectory of our lives.” •Evans Scholar Alumni groups now are organized by Scholar university and region The Alumni Association has transitioned from the former state-based association to a university-led structure. Leaders have also identified Alumni presidents in the 10 largest Alumni regions and are working to secure leaders in at least 10 additional locations in 2012. Other goals include establishing a Young Alumni Association in Chicago, which will later be expanded throughout the country, as well as increasing the percentage of Alumni who donate to the Par Club. Visit www.wgaesf.org/alumni for information on how to reach your local president. Wh at ro l e c a n I p l ay ? Donate to the Par Club – then call a few friends and ask them to do the same. Volunteer at the BMW Championship; proceeds solely benefit Evans Scholars. Participate in Alumni events and Scholarship fundraisers. ENCOURAGE potential Evans Scholars to apply or family and friends to start looping at a country club. CONNECT online via Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Mentor current Scholars (help with resumes, interview skills and networking). Thank you for your generous support of the Evans Scholars Program. Please stay in touch, and I look forward to seeing many of you during my travels in the coming months. Jeff Harrison is the Vice President of Education at the Western Golf Association. Want to learn more? Visit www.wgaesf. org/alumni for contact information on your university or regional president. “I’m so thankful for the amazing opportunity the Evans Scholars Foundation provided me. I can’t wait to see what lies ahead in my life and to stay involved in the Program as an Evans Scholar Alum!” Sidney Solomonson, Washington State, ‘11 Summer 2011 29 Alumni Association then 1957 The first Alumni Association is organized! From a March 1957 Alumni newsletter: “Meet the new president of the Chicago-area Alumni Association: Milton Newton! Milt was one of the four Evans Scholar recipients in 1945.” There were 6 Scholarship Houses: Northwestern, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Michigan State and Marquette officials, including ing with Alumni ni Chick Evans chatt at the 1960 Alum t, lef m second fro Milton Newton, g) tin Ou er w the ES Summ Outing (what is no 14 and 9,400 of which 862 evans alumni are women s at the 2010 Alum ni Holiday Party calendar “The Evans Scholarship changed all of our lives. Being a part of the Alumni Association allows us to give back, and we can help spread the word to caddies and current Scholars about this life-changing experience. The more Alumni who are involved, the stronger the organization will be.” Alan Sprunk (MSU ‘79) at a glance July 25 August 8 Country Club NJ: East Coast Evans Alumni Classic, Hawk Pointe Golf Club OH: Caddie Classic, Maketewah Country Club OR: Evans Cup of Oregon, Portland Golf Club August 19 September 12-18 WI: Mark Cushman Evans Scholars Classic, Stevens Point Country Club IL: BMW Championship, Cog Hill Golf and Country Club; Gardner Heidrick ProAm (Sept. 14) MN: Seven Club Tournament, August 1 IL: Evans Scholars Invitational, Onwentsia Club and Shoreacres August 7-8 IL: Evans Scholars Expo and Summer Outing, Medinah Country Club 30 Marquette Alum what people are saying “We owe it to ourselves, to our families and to the WGA to help other kids gain and enjoy what we have gained through our college experiences. It goes without saying that I am interested in doing anything I can to help form an association.” Bill Maloney (NU ’51) Interlachen Country Club Scholarship Houses, with 19 Evans Scholar universities 231 female Evans Scholar (then a junior) The reorganization of the Evans Scholars Alumni Association, announced by WGA leaders in fall 2010, is nearly complete! now there are Evans Scholars Alumni with what people said 2011 and Evans Scholars Alumni 1 now and The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine August 29 IN: Evans Scholars Classic, Crooked Stick Golf Club WA: Evans Cup of Washington, Meridian Valley Country Club September 12 MI: Hickory Stick Invitational, Edgewood October 10 CO: Par Club Tournament, The Broadmoor A full list of Evans Scholar events can be found online at www.wgasef.org. Giving, simplified Giving numbers Save stamps and make giving to the Evans Scholars Foundation as easy as possible by enrolling in the new automatic monthly giving program. You can set up an automatic monthly gift from your checking account via electronic fund transfer or through a credit card at www. wgaesf.org. Also, make sure to use the online lookup tool to see if your company matches gifts. It’s an easy way to double or triple your donation at no extra cost! 80% of Alumni have made some kind of donation to the Evans Scholars Foundation $50 million the total amount that Alumni have contributed since 1957 twitter.com/ evansalumni linkedin.com; ES Alumni Association Auto Show’s First Look benefits Evans Scholars M ore than 100 Evans Alumni and friends strolled the Auto Show floor at the Feb. 11 First Look for Charity at McCormick Place in Chicago. The black-tie event, which raised $29,000 for the Evans Scholars Foundation, took place the night before the Auto Show opened to the public. The Evans Scholars Foundation was one of 14 participating organizations that received funds from First Look, one of the city’s biggest one-day charity events. theMACreport Follow us! facebook.com/ evansscholars alumni news & notes AxleTech CEO to be featured guest at 2011 Evans Scholars Speakers Forum WGA Director Mary Bitkowski Petrovich (Mich. ’85) will be the featured guest at the 2011 Evans Scholars Speakers Forum on Thursday, Nov. 10, at Union League Club of Chicago. She’ll share her experiences as a caddie, Evans Scholar and CEO of Detroit-based AxleTech, the fastest-growing and most profitable business in its industry. Petrovich grew up in suburban Detroit, the second oldest of eight children. Her father died when she was young, and she had to help care for her siblings, three of whom were babies. “There was a lot of responsibility at a young age,” she has said, “so I had to grow up fast.” Money was tight, but a job caddying at Franklin Hills Country Club changed her life. Today, Petrovich is the CEO of a firm that makes drivetrain components for off-highway and specialty vehicles. mark your calendar! WGA Director Mary Bitkowski Petrovich (Mich. ’85). The second annual Evans Scholars Speakers Forum will be held at noon on Thursday, Nov. 10, at Union League Club of Chicago. Tickets are $35; register at www.wgaesf.org! Summer 2011 31 AROUND THE LOOP Stay connected — let your fellow Alumni know what’s new in your life! Send in your letters, updates and photos online at www.wgaesf.org or send a note, including your full name, school and year graduated to: alumni@wgaesf.com. Colorado Illinois Kevin Lewis, ’77, is general manager and director of golf at Machrihanish Dunes Golf Club in Scotland. Mike Dixon, ’71, is an architect with the U.S. Peace Corps in Kyiv, Ukraine. He blogs about his adventures at mdixon56.com. Jack Haake, ’83, is regional director, West Natural Gas Origination, for NextEra Energy Resources. He and his wife, Traci, and their son, Connor, colorado alumni live in Broomfield, Colo. 399 John Milord, ’03, is a producer and director in Los Angeles. Breana Prince, ’11, is pursuing a doctorate in physical therapy at Franklin Pierce University in Arizona. Kevin Fitzpatrick, ’74, is executive director of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago. Tim Ryan, ’78, is business development manager at Golden Oil Co. in the Janesville, Wis., area. Steven Stroker, ‘81, is a regional director at Baird in Chicago. Paul Grgas, ’87, is an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance trainer at ISYS Technologies. He recently retired from the Chana Esther and Avi Fogel’s (Ill. ’0) children, Miri, Chaim, Leah and Nosson Tzvi. U.S. Air Force as a master sergeant. He and his wife, Tami, and their son, James, live in Alexandria, Va. Dan O’Rourke, ’88, is a senior manager, indirect tax, at CCH. Mike Kirchner, ‘00, and Leigh (Naroleski) Kirchner, ‘02, welcomed son Ryan Michael on Feb. 17. Jim Lee, ’00, and Colleen (King) Lee, ’01, welcomed daughter Hannah Marie on April 28. She joins brother Changing the course of a lifetime Duane Metcalf (Colo. ’70) wrote in late 2010: the Evans Scholarship. We talked and then got back to our respective jobs. That evening, I called and asked her for a date. Two years later, we were married. On June 9, 2010, we celebrated our 41st wedding anniversary. After I was awarded the Evans Scholarship, the local newspaper carried the names of the recipients. It was summer, and I was working at the Broadmoor Golf Club. One day, I decided to have lunch at the employee “To say that the course of cafeteria, the only time in all the years I worked at the my life was changed by the Evans Scholarship is club that I ate there. The Scholarship allowed me to attend college and start my professional career. Also because of it, a young lady stopped, talked quite an understatement. ” to me and became my wife. I On that same day, a young shall forever be grateful to those lady also decided to eat in who made it possible for me to get a college the cafeteria — the only day she would ever education and an introduction to my wife. do so. We had known each other for years (we Every day, I realize what it means to be an attended the same high school) and when she saw me, she mentioned seeing the article about Evans Scholar and how lucky I was, and am. 32 The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine Andy. The family lives in LaGrange Park, Ill. Adam Schneiderman, ’00, is vice president at Newmark Knight Frank Epic in Rosemont, Ill. Tom Kubala, ’03, and his wife, Kristie, welcomed daughter Katherine Lee on Jan. 29. Robbie Illinois Moy, ’04, alumni is engaged to Annette Oswiecinski. The couple, who live in Chicago, will marry Sept. 10. He is a senior consultant at Avanade. 1,096 Steven Schmitt, ’06, is a designer and project manager at Full Circle Architects in Northbrook, Ill. Robbie Moy (Ill. ’04) is engaged to Annette Oswiecinski. ‘A huge part of our lives’ The park behind the Illinois Evans Scholarship House, at 1007 S. Third St., has been adopted by Evans Scholars. Sean Collins (Ill. ’03) and his wife, Erin Murphy, along with Evans Scholars from four schools at their August 2010 wedding. Sean Collins (Ill. ’03) wrote in January: At our wedding, we had Scholars from the Marquette, Indiana, Northwestern, Illinois, and Purdue houses. The program has been a huge part of our lives, and we look forward to donating and volunteering in the future. Justin Marku, ’09, is at Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith in New York City. Joseph Janiczek, ’11, is engaged to Christine Padilla. He is a manufacturing engineering associate at General Mills in West Chicago, Ill. Kristie and Tom Kubala’s (Ill. ’03) daughter, Katherine. Eric Persiani, ’11, is a junior trader at Infinium in Chicago. “The Evans Scholarship has changed my life forever. Your kindness and generosity will never be forgotten.” Maggie McEldowney (Ill. ’11), thanking par club members Tony Coco, ’90, wrote in February: “After more than 13 years of working at the DuPage County (Illinois) Public Defender’s Office, first as an Assistant Public Defender, then as a Senior Assistant Public Defender, then as Deputy Chief Public Defender, (2010-2011). I was appointed an Associate Judge for the 18th Judicial Circuit on Jan. 21. Prior to being a Public Defender, I was an Assistant State’s Attorney in DuPage and an associate attorney at the law firm of Caluwaert & Panegasser in Elmhurst. I am currently assigned to traffic court.” continued theMACreport This past August, I married Erin Murphy, and in lieu of traditional wedding favors, we decided to make a donation to the Evans Scholars Foundation. The Evans Scholarship has played an important role in both the Murphy and Collins families. Along with my scholarship to Illinois, Erin’s cousins, Colleen King (Ind. ‘12) and Sean Murphy (NU ‘10), have also been lucky enough to be a part of this great program. Indiana park partners Scholar networking in SoCal Vladimir Kroshinsky (Ind. ’07) wrote in June: After completing my undergrad, I didn’t think I would be involved with the ESF at the level I am today. I would have never imagined leading an effort to engage with and build an Alumni social network in Southern California! It wasn’t until Tom Fitzgerald (Ind. ’73) contacted me, surprised that we have three Alumni working in Hollywood at the same advertising agency, did I realize the significant role social media has on connecting Alumni from around the world. Tom has been working on connecting Scholars in Southern California for over a decade and has established a database of over 250 Scholars, including a subset of almost 40 “ShowBiz Scholars” who work in entertainment. The Scholars at the same agency are myself, John Druska (Ind. ’07) and Evan Bernardin (Ind. ’10). We stayed connected through social media and now work in social media at Creative Asylum, where we create and execute marketing campaigns for studios and entertainment industry brands. Now we’re using technology and social media to help re-engage and connect with the massive SoCal Alumni group. We couldn’t be more excited to utilize our expertise to support and promote a scholarship that has done so much for us! Find us on Facebook.com/SoCalScholars Summer 2011 33 ‘I am forever indebted to the Evans Scholars Foundation’ Lou Ellsworth (Ind. ’85) wrote in November 2010: In October, my oldest nephew was married in Indianapolis. This presented an opportunity to take my wife and two daughters to Bloomington for the first time. I was thrilled! We went to breakfast on the square around the courthouse, which still has its smalltown charm. The area is far more developed and commercial than it was 20 years ago, but it strikes a nice balance. you show your spouse a concentration camp-like picture of four toilets lined up next to each other without walls dividing them? There were hundreds of pictures that included members of the class of 1983 through the class of 1988. The constant in these pictures were big smiles and hearty laughter. As I walked past Ballantine Hall towards Kirkwood and Indiana, I realized this trip was far more for me than my family. My daughters don’t understand the concept of college, and my wife has no devotion to the Midwest. With the colored leaves floating about on this perfect Brown County day, I could barely contain my excitement for being where I was. It’s hard to believe I was once lucky enough to have been a student at such an amazingly beautiful place. After eating, we took a drive to the Evans Scholars house. We were greeted by New Scholar Educator Kyle Lynch, ‘11. The house looks fabulous. I was envious of the Lou Ellsworth (Ind. ’85) and his family visit luxury these caddies experience (no the Indiana Evans Scholars House in 2010. communal bathrooms). It’s excellent there are enough female Scholars and appropriate conditions that allow them to live in the house. I can’t help but feel enormous gratitude that I was at the Evans Scholars House for four years. I am happy this was my life, and I’m thankful I have a place to visit at IU that feels like home. I was fortunate enough to have met the people I met and made Though a generation apart, Kyle Lynch and I would both choose the friends I made. None of us will know what our lives would to swim in the pond given the choice between the pool and the have been like had it not been for the Evans Scholarship. But pond. That’s a comforting feeling and an instant bond. I never delude myself into thinking that I would be who, what One highlight was finding photo albums Ed Hackett,‘86, and where I am without it. It changed my life, and I am forever chronicled while I was in school. I was thankful he devoted so indebted to WGA and the Evans Scholars Foundation. much time to developing them. How can you not laugh when Indiana cont. Richard Ellis in Indianapolis. He and his wife, Lindsay, live in Fishers, Ind. Sean O’Leary, ’02, is spine territory manager, Chicago district, at Globus Medical in Chicago. Vladimir Kroshinsky, ’07, is a senior social media manager at Creative Asylum in Hollywood, Calif. Nick Svarczkopf, ’05, is an associate office broker at CB Jason Quillin, ’09, is a teacher’s aide at Alexander The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine In April, following another bout of bad luck, the Indiana Scholars finished 32nd with two riders — and a lot of heart — in the annual bike race. Graham Bell Montessori School and AEHI in Wheeling, Ill. He wrote in December: “I am a teacher’s aide for about 15 3-6-year-old children and have learned Cued Speech to better assist and communicate with the deaf or hard-of-hearing children.” The Indiana Evans Scholars class of 2011. 34 2011 Little indy 500 Evan Bernardin, ’10, is a social media representative at Creative Asylum in Hollywood, Calif. Brett Floyd, ’11, is a campus analyst at Huron Consulting in Chicago. Martin Ryan, ’11, is a commercial associate at Fifth Third Bank in Cincinnati. Indiana alumni 545 Christopher Williams, ’11, is an investment banking analyst at Bank of Montreal in Chicago. ‘Never too late to say thanks’ Marquette Scott Miller (Ind. ’86) wrote to WGA Director David Bleeke in late 2010: I don’t know if you will remember me, but I had the pleasure of caddying for you several times at the Fort Wayne Country Club in 1979, 1980 and 1981. As a result, I earned the Evans Scholarship. I wanted to reach out to you, as you were one of the members who was most kind to me in those days. I’ve always believed you were one of my supporters. “There is not a day that goes by that I do not remember all that everyone has done for me. I am honored still to have been chosen for the Evans Scholarship.” wonderful people and have the honor to represent a quality organization that strives to provide excellent service. I’m married to a beautiful and capable wife, my best friend. I am proud to have a son who is a senior at Fishers High School (and a 2010 Class 5A Football Champion), and a lovely young daughter. Life is good. There is not a day that goes by that I do not remember all that everyone has done for me. The members of the Fort Wayne Country Club were wonderful to me, and I am honored still to have been chosen for the Evans Scholarship. I have been proud to give back, having attended several ceremonies to award the scholarship around the central Indiana area to deserving soon-to-be Scholars. I have also been honored to participate in the selection committee meetings from time to time. It is never too late to thank someone for what they have done, and though many years have passed since we saw one another, I still remember your kindness and support to a young man who was trying to become all he could be. Thanks for everything that you did for me, and for being so kind and supportive. I hope to see you again one day. Dino and Stephanie (Sylve) Antonopoulos’ (Marq. ’04) son, Michael, with sister Ellie. Robert Stupp, ’64, has written a young adult fiction book titled “The Fable of Freddy and the Frockett.” Jason Janes, ’00, and his wife, Danielle, welcomed daughter Addison LeeAnne on March 20. He is a senior network analyst at AT&T Mobility. John Doggett, ’00, and Melissa Curran, ’02, married May 30, 2010, in Las Vegas. They welcomed daughter Madeline Kay on April 16. on the European and Asian markets for a few global clients.” David Ocampo, ’06, married Erly Luchy Guerra in June. He works at DeVry and is pursuing his MISM at Keller Graduate School of Management. mARQUETTE Dan Daitchman, ’07, married Lauren Oswald on Aug. 28. alumni 677 theMACreport Following IU, I went to work for an insurance carrier in Indianapolis. In the years since, I have worked across the state of Indiana. I’ve had some success, working my way along from field claim rep to claims supervisor, then to claims manager, and now sales manager for my employer. It has been a rewarding and pleasant career. I work with Danielle and Jason Janes’ (Marq. ’00) daughter, Addison LeeAnne. Bob Cummings, ‘11, is a Latin teacher at Carmel High School in Mundelein, Ill. Stephanie (Sylve) Antonopoulos, ’04, and her husband, Dino, welcomed son Michael on April 18, 2010. He joins sister Ellie. Josh Drueck, ’06, wrote in February: “I made the move across the pond a few months ago; still working for the same advertising agency, but transferred to our office here in London for a while to work Melissa (Marq. ’02) and John Doggett’s (Marq. ’00) daughter, Madeline Kay. Dan Daitchman (Marq. ’07) married Lauren Oswald on Aug. 28. They’re pictured with Evans Scholars. Summer 2011 35 Amy Lillibridge, ’02, obtained a CMP designation in January. The professional title represents standards of excellence in the meetings, conventions and miami exhibitions alumni industry. Another year has passed Julie and Ken Filippini’s (Marq. ’83) children Kimbra, Jonathan and Rachel. Ken Filippini (Marq. ’83) wrote in November 2010: Another year has passed, filled with excitement and change. Our oldest daughter, Kimbra, had the most change — two heart surgeries and she started college. Her health is doing great, and she loves school. It is a joy to watch her thrive! Jonathan is a junior in high school, playing soccer and studying hard. He is considering following dad’s path into business when he heads to college. Rachel, our youngest, is a freshman in high school and is living out her dream of being involved in the musical at school. She is a great dancer but she sure didn’t get that from me. Julie continues to keep us all headed in the right direction. Business is going well — everyone likes to eat ice cream, and we make some of the best. We expect you will be able to find Hudsonville Ice Cream in the Chicago area in 2011. Marquette cont. Miami Alan Devey, ’11, is at Aon in Glenview, Ill. Joseph Binzer, ’77, has been appointed Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Previously, he served as chancellor of the Archdiocese and pastor of St. Louis Church since 2003. He was ordained on June 9 at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Chains in Cincinnati. Nicholas Hookham, ’11, is at Consolidated Graphics in Milwaukee. John Marshall, ’90, is principal of Chaminade Julienne Catholic High School in Dayton, Ohio. Melissa Curran (Marq. ’02) and John Doggett (Marq. ’00) married May 30, 2010. 36 The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine 398 Jeff and Christine (Darmofal) Slade’s (Mia. ’01) daughter, Vivienne Elise, 1. Christine (Darmofal) Slade, ’01, and her husband, Jeff, welcomed daughter Vivienne Elise on Jan. 1, 2010. Angela Wade, ’11, is a freshman math teacher at St. Martin de Porres High School in Cleveland. ALUMNI spotlight When Andrew Critzer (Mia. ’00) first heard what his dad, Tom, was creating, he thought he was crazy. A cape that calms your dog during a storm? It was just another wacky invention, he thought. Then, to Critzer’s surprise, it worked. The cape, called the Storm Defender, is said to calm dogs with storm anxiety, both during the storm and before. Its metallic lining keeps out static electricity emitted before a storm that can sometimes send dogs into a panic. “It actually worked!” Critzer said. “It’s been amazing the kind of feedback we’ve gotten.” Sadly, his father passed away in 2005, not too long after starting the business. Now, Critzer, his Scholar siblings Steven (Mia. ’05) and Susan (Mia. ’08) and their mom, Karen, run the business. “We see this as a way to carry on dad’s legacy,” Critzer said. “It’s definitely something we like being involved in. We want to maintain dad’s overall goal, which was to help as many dogs and owners as possible.” Christopher Moses, ‘95, is a partner at Charleston Radiologists and Imaging Specialists of Charleston in South Carolina. Andrew Kawalek, ’11, is a real estate/leasing broker at State Street Properties in Chicago. Andrew Critzer (Mia. ’00) with his dog, Maggie, wearing the Storm Defender. Michigan update Bill Haney (Mich. ’58) wrote in December 2010: In 2010, my handicap went up from 7 to 9, from the senior tees, of course, and for the first time in five years, I didn’t shoot my age (now 74, but I had several 75s). Angela and Andrea Wade (Mia. ‘11) at graduation. Anne Mersch (Mich. ’11), left, at graduation. “The Evans Scholarship is one of the biggest blessings in my life, and I am so thankful to be part of such a wonderful community.” Michigan Ian Ellison, ’94, is FAQ Manager at Pandora. He lives in Oakland, Calif. Michelle (Fox) Dokas, ’91, is a pediatric nurse practitioner, acute care, pediatric cardiovascular surgery, at Children’s Hospital of Michigan in Detroit. She earned a master’s of science in nursing from Wayne State University in 2010. John Deledda, ’95, and his wife, Natalie, welcomed son Sebastian on July 1, 2010. Kirk Siefker, ’93, and his wife, Jessica, welcomed son Eli Henry on Jan. 7. He weighed 9 lbs., 8 oz., and joins brother Nathanael. Justin Cuschieri, 03, has a gastroenterology fellowship at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. Justin Havekost,’03, is a senior analyst and account manager at STR Trade in Farmington Hills, Mich. Kellie Schwagle, ’03, married Joe Wagner on Sept. 4. The couple live in Chicago. Dan Cousino, ’04, is a commercial real estate attorney at Katten Muchin Rosenman in Chicago. Jessica and Kirk Siefker’s (Mich. ‘93) son, Eli Henry. Jill Kwiatkowski, ’04, married Michael Dahm on Oct. 23 in Michigan. The couple live in Chicago. I got halfway to a goal set by my brother of playing the four “extreme” golf courses on this planet: southernmost (Ringa Ringa, on Stewart Island, New Zealand), lowest in elevation (Furnace Creek, Death Valley, California), but have no immediate plans for the highest in elevation, nor the northernmost. Likely other Evans Scholar Alums have accomplished that feat long before I ever will. Nathan Meredith, ’07, is a project engineer at ITT Geospatial Systems in Fort Wayne, Ind. He earned his master’s in space systems engineering from the University of Michigan. He married Amber Shaw in California in late 2010. They live in Fort Wayne, Ind. Patrick Alger, ’11, works at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Detroit. He is pursuing a master’s in accounting at the University of Michigan. Jared Clark, ’11, is a completions engineer at Shell Oil Co. in New Orleans. theMACreport angela wade (mia. ’11) But I did win the gold in billiards in the Michigan Senior Olympics, published a couple new books, saw an essay of mine appear in the literary journal “Memoir (and)” and increased my holdings in grandchildren to an even eight. Brett Cockerill, ’11, is a software test engineer at Microsoft in Seattle. Alexander Hyla, ’11, is pursuing a Ph.D. in chemistry at Georgia Institute of Technology in mICHIGAN alumni Atlanta. 703 Anne Mersch, ’11, is pursuing a doctorate in physical therapy at Washington University in St. Louis. Kellie Schwagle (Mich. ‘03) married Joe Wagner on Sept. 4. The couple is with Alumni and friends. Summer 2011 37 Michigan cont. ALUMNI spotlight Nathan Meredith (Mich. ’07) married Amber Shaw in 2010. small horse farm in North Carolina. Jill Kwiatkowski (Mich. ’04) married Michael Dahm on Oct. 23. Sean Franke, ’92, is president of Electronic Merchant Services in the Los Angeles area. Michigan State Daron Wojnowski, ’99, married Christie Herter on Oct. 2. He is a high school art teacher in Plainfield, Ill. The couple live in Montgomery, Ill. Mark Freathy, ’77, is a teacher representative for the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. He was appointed by the Governor to serve on the Calif. Academic Content Standards Commission in June 2010. Scott Wilson, ’78, is chief human resources officer for Vi-Jon in St. Louis. Brian Goulding, ’79, retired from the Navy in June after 29 years as a career surface warfare officer. He and his wife, Danielle, live on a Kambiz Ghorashi, ’02, is a vice president at Diversified Industries Group in Chicago. Chris Malavolti, ‘05, is pursuing a master’s degree at the University of Michigan’s Center for Chinese Studies. Jonathan Decker, ’09, is an assistant golf professional at Ridgeway Country Club in Neenah, Wis. He is working toward becoming a PGA of America member. John Zimcosky (MSU ’07) made it into the hot seat of the game show “Who Wants to be a Millionaire?” on Aug. 10, 2009. He walked away the next day with $25,000. The Chicago finance analyst cruised through the first five questions and earned $1,000. He didn’t use a lifeline until the $16,000 question, which he got right with the help of the audience. Then, the night’s “expert,” George Stephanopoulos, helped Zimcosky secure $25,000 before time ran out. On night two, a question about Amy Winehouse’s island vacation stumped him. He answered wrong, but still earned $25,000. “This is definitely one of the top experiences in my life,” said Zimcosky. “It was an exciting time and just lots of fun.” -adapted from mlive.com Ethan Guy, ’09, is an associate at Energy Solutions in Oakland, Calif. He lives in the Bay area. Brandon Gray, ’11, is enrolled in the engineering leadership development program with Siemens. Jessica Campbell, ’11, is pursuing a doctorate in osteopathic medicine at Michigan State University Medical School. Giuseppe Palazzolo, ’11, is pursuing a law degree at MSU alumni University of Detroit Mercy. Steven Eroyan, ’11, is an auditor at Ernst and Young in Detroit. Cory Stadelbauer, ’11, works at Grant Thornton. David Foley, ’11, is operations manager at All Metals in Wixom, Mich. Chon Taylor, ’11, is a database consultant at Oracle in Reston, Va. “I applaud the WGA. It all started with one MSU Alums at Daron Wojnowski’s, ‘99, wedding on Oct. 2, 2010. From left: Doug Filiak, ‘99, Wojnowski, ‘99, Kevin Marvin,’99, Brian Vento, ‘00, and Jeff Kraft, ‘98. man, and now thousands have benefited from his and others’ generosity.” Lisa Kent-cockerill on facebook mother of Terran Cockerill (MSU ‘09) and Brett Cockerill (Mich. ‘11) 38 The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine 770 Minnesota Steve Libby, ’70, is brokerage director at M & M Brokerage Services in New York City. minnesota alumni 596 Josh Madigan, ’00, is vice president, Adfusion, at ARAnet in Minneapolis. Anna (Zalaznik) Peterson, ’05, is partner/graphic designer at Foofaraw Design in the Minneapolis area. Cathleen VonderHaar, ’05, married Chris Reffkin (Pur. ’05) on April 30. Jennifer Congdon, ’07, is owner of Jennifer Congdon Law in St. Paul. Colin Eide, ‘09, is a researcher and analyst at Dunia Frontiers Consulting and an Arabic translator at The Executive at Beirut in Lebanon. Janet Grom, ’11, has enrolled in Teach for America in Houston, Texas. Lucas O’Brien, ’11, is pursuing a master’s degree Steve Caswell (MSU ’79) wrote in May: It’s time to drop a line. I spent some time at Michigan State prior to Thanksgiving and stayed overnight at the Kellogg Center. Classes were still in session, and it was great to walk around, just another Spartan for a few days. I had dinner with Mark Guastella (MSU ’77), who is also the current House benefactor. I enjoyed catching up and getting some house meeting stories about the current caddies! I also got an update on Mr. Tom Dutch, our revered former faculty advisor, whose wise words I still hear in my head after so many years. I also met with the current faculty advisor Steve Ruthenberg, general manager of the Forest Akers Golf Course. His knowledge of the golf industry and enthusiasm for the Evans Scholars program were truly impressive. That trip came a few weeks after an Evans Scholar Alumni dinner hosted here by Matt Desch (OSU ’80). Around 75 Alumni were present. The spirit in the room was infectious, and we each took a minute to talk about how important the Scholarship has been to us. It was a special treat to have a beer with the ageless Jim Moore! I’ve lived in the Washington area since 1980, and I’m currently employed by a major health insurer here, concentrating on process improvement and compliance. My youngest goes to college in the fall, so I’m looking at the empty nest and figuring out what’s next. In any case, I look forward to reconnecting with Alumni, especially through social media. (I’m on Facebook more than my kids!) Gabriella Potter, ’11, is at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Minneapolis. Jon Paul Wynne, ’11, is an associate at PricewaterhouseCoopers in the advisory financial management and analysis group. ALUMNI achievements Robert “Dock” Stupp (Marq. ‘64) published a young adult fiction book, The Fable of Freddy and the Frockett, about a Native American boy who goes on an educational and humorous journey with his girlfriend, Frankee. Don Van Eynde (MSU ‘59) was the 2011 recipient of the Dr. and Mrs. Z.T. Scott Faculty Fellowship in recognition of his outstanding abilities as a teacher and advisor. He is a professor at Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas. theMACreport Catching up with Alumni in human resources at the University of Minnesota. Brian Goulding (MSU ’79) wrote in June on his Navy retirement: “It was a great ride with assignments in Japan, Hawaii, West and East Coast ports. I served on several different types of ships from Aircraft Carrier to Frigate and commanded an Amphibious Troop Transport, USS TRENTON. The last 14 years of my career, I was homeported in Norfolk, which allowed my family needed stability in the great state of Virginia while I was deployed. Having done everything a Navy Captain can do, it was time to say goodbye to active duty and seek a new life in the civilian community. My wife, Danielle, and I are now enjoying our small horse farm in North Carolina, and I am seeking employment in the energy efficiency industry.” Summer 2011 39 The Minnesota Evans Scholars class of 2011 at the May 16 Founder’s Day event. ‘The stars have aligned’ Jason Bayle (NIU ’99) appeared on the Feb. 14 episode of The Chicago Code on Fox, singing at the memorial service for a fallen officer. He wrote in February: It was a tremendous opportunity, and I know my Evans Scholars family would be proud. Missouri Roger Bentley, ’69, is the global communications manager for Tyco Flow Control in Houston, Texas. Gerard Noce, ’74, was admitted to the American College of Trial Lawyers, one of the premier legal associations in America. He was inducted in April in San Antonio, Texas. Missouri alumni 423 John Thomas, ’98, is branch office administrator at Stifel, Nicolaus & Company in St. Louis. Nikolas Koscielniak, ’11, is pursuing a doctorate in occupational therapy at Washington University in St. Louis. Justin Mulligan, ’11, is pursuing a law degree at St. Louis University. Kelly Poskin, ’11, is a nurse at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis. Michael Cordes, ’75, is an academic instructor, GEDPrep, at Job Corps Center in Gainesville, Fla., and a certified math teacher in Florida. No. Illinois Chris Weinzirl, ’84, is executive vice president of finance and human resources at Eurpac Brokerage Operations in Dallas. He lives in Irving, Texas. Willem Veldhuyzen, ’93, is owner and CEO of Rapid Filing Services. Tom Browne, ’98, is a sales engineer at Tyco Electronics in the Chicago area. Mary and I now live in Baton Rouge, La. I received an offer to attend LSU on scholarship to work towards my MFA in acting and theatre. I'm a member of the resident professional company at night and take classes and teach “Intro to Acting” during the day. Mary is the director of communications and development for the Baton Rouge Ballet. Somehow the stars aligned for us down here, and we feel very lucky to be here. Jason Bayle, ’99, is pursuing a master of fine arts in acting and theater at Lousiana State No. Illinois alumni University. 229 Michael King, ‘00, is manager, software engineering, at Front End Systems in Chicago. Jeffrey Goworowski, ’11, is an account executive at American Marketing and Publishing in DeKalb, Ill. Jason Hidy, ’11, is a sales representative at Windy City Wire Company in Bolingbrook, Ill. Amanda Murphy, ’11, is pursuing a master’s in speech and hearing sciences at the University of Illinois. Todd Trexler, ’11, is pursuing a master’s in accounting at Northern Illinois University. Northwestern George Karney, ’55, was appointed to lead the congregation at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church of Delaware in August 2010. He wrote in November: “Since retiring in 2000, I have served in various congregations in “The Evans Scholars Program has truly been a life-changing experience. The Northern Illinois Evans Scholars class of 2011. It challenged me to do more than I ever could have imagined four years ago.” Jon paul wynne (minn. ’11) 40 The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine both Delaware, as well as Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Our life has been full. This past year, my wife and I went on safari in Kenya. Bypass surgery has not prevented me from continuing on with a full and active life.” Lauren (Manczko) Kaiser, ’99, is vice president, FX specialist at Wells Fargo Bank in Chicago. Patrick McAuliffe, ’11, is pursuing a master’s in electrical engineering at Northwestern University. Dan Aguirre, ’05, is a literary agent. He lives in southern Spain. Justin Smith, ’11, is an analyst at PepsiCo. in Chicago. Max Willer, ’11, is a mechanical engineer at General Dynamics Electric Boat in Groton, Conn. NU Alumni 659 ALUMNI spotlight Derek Snaidauf and his team visiting Legzira Beach near Sidi Ifni. Below: Snaidauf in Ouarzazate. The group did three months of pre-work, which involved education and team-building, and two months of post-work, which entailed serving as an ambassador and spokesperson for the program. ‘The trip of a lifetime’ Derek Snaidauf (NU ’99) got the opportunity of a lifetime last fall when he was selected to be a part of a special work program allowing him to travel to Morocco for a month and work with colleagues from across the world helping organizations in developing countries with their business strategies. Snaidauf, a Service Area Manager with IBM in Chicago, was selected to be a part of the company’s Corporate Service Corps, a six-month global citizenship and leadership development program. After completing a rigorous application process last spring, he was shocked to learn he had been selected for the first team headed to Morocco. Of the company’s estimated 10,000 people who had applied, only around 500 people were selected and then divided into teams of 8-12 people, he says. theMACreport The highlight, of course, was the trip to Africa with his team, which consisted of eight people from six countries: Brazil, Japan, Korea, India, Vietnam and the United States. “Morocco has such an amazing vibrancy and culture and heritage,” Snaidauf says. “The people there were extremely generous and friendly.” The lifestyle was an adjustment – like getting used to their long, leisurely lunches, as opposed to the quick American business meals. Snaidauf worked mostly on a project with a governmental agency that oversees “Morocco has regional matters, recommending such an amazing ways for them to vibrancy and culture better promote tourism, investment and heritage.” and economic development. Their final report, which included a plan to improve the website and network with other groups, got great feedback. “They were so appreciative of our support and help that we actually got a standing ovation, which is something you don’t often get in the business environment,” he says. After the long work days, his group would trade stories about their home countries and prepare traditional dishes for everyone to sample. On weekends, they traveled throughout the country. After the trip, his wife came to visit, and the two traveled throughout the country and the continent. The trip pushed him out of his comfort zone. “It was challenging and intense,” he says. “The ability to learn about the lives and experiences of teammates and clients from around the globe was one of the great gifts.” Summer 2011 41 Ohio State Ryan Pagnanelli, ’98, is director, perfusion services, at Comprehensive Care Services. He and his wife, Lesley, welcomed daughter Avery on Feb. 21, 2010. Patrick Remenowsky, ’99, is a pro caddie at Sherwood Country Club in Thousand Oaks, Calif. University in Jerusalem, Israel. Michael Frey, ’11, is a support writer ohio state at 360 alumni Water in Columbus. 740 Evan Hale, ’11, is a staff scientific information analyst for Chemical Abstracts Service in Columbus. Jeremy Wood, ’00, is president of Ethic Promotions in Portland and co-founder of Brewery Branding Co. in Portland. Jemine Mode, ’04, is assistant attorney general in the attorney general’s office in Eugene, Ore. Purdue Rich Niemiec, ’83, is president of ROLTA TUSC in Lombard, Ill. Peter Bozzo, ‘94, is head of operations at Michael’s Finer Meats and Seafood in Columbus, Ohio. Sara and Dustin Dashner’s (OSU ‘05) twins, Ella and Keira, at 11 months. Richard Healy, ’04, married Kristin Hinze on Sept. 4. He is a senior auditor at Abercrombie and Fitch in New Albany, Ohio. Dustin Dashner, ’05, and his wife, Sara, welcomed twin daughters Ella and Keira on May 19, 2010. Michael Eizyk, ’11, is pursuing a master’s in conflict research, management and resolution at Hebrew Richard Healy (OSU ’04) married Kristin Hinze on Sept. 4 . Nick Labianco (Pur. ‘09) and Kimi Fisher (Pur. ‘11) are engaged. The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine purdue alumni 402 Washington Alan Braden, ‘08, is a realtor at VonKeith Properties in Burbank, Calif. Chris Reffkin, ’05, married Cathleen VonderHaar (Minn. ’05) on April 30. Dan Demichelis, ’64, is a certified public accountant and a certified fraud examiner at Financial Consulting and Investigators in New York City. Maureen (Ritchie) Trybula, ’05, and her husband, Chris, welcomed daughter Ella Susan on Jan. 17. She joins sister Brianna. Matthew Eckhart, ’11, is an account manager at Trane in Fort Wayne, Ind. Tim Turkowski, ’03, is the airport revenue manager for the North Central Region operating the Alamo, Enterprise, and National Car Rental brands at Enterprise Holdings in St. Louis. Nick Labianco, ’09, is engaged to Kimi Fisher, ’11. 42 Michael Conway, ’11, is a research assistant at the Harvard Skin Disease Research Center in Boston. Angela Schafer, ’11, is pursuing a physical therapy degree at Indiana University. Oregon David Evans, ’82, is owner of and a tax consultant at CTO Consulting in Portland. Ella. Sarah Freiburger, ’11, is a nurse at the University of Wisconsin Medical School in Madison. Cristina and Steve Leffingwell’s (OSU ’00) children, Isabella and Andrew. Bill Brockhaus, ’67, is water program director at A Child’s Right and director of international development at A.J. Antunes & Co. in the Orange Country, Calif., area. Chris and Maureen (Ritchi e) Trybula’s (Pur. ’05) daught er, Wisconsin Daniel Finley, ’80, is president and CEO of Autry National Center in Los Angeles. EVANS SCHOLAR coupleS How one couple met and married, thanks to the Evans Scholarship Rev. Glen Kohlhagen (Wis. ’80) with his first grandchild, Elizabeth Marjory Kohlhagen, born July 28, 2010. Steve Hildebrandt, ‘91, is an inventory analyst at United Alloy in Janesville, Wis. alumni 900 Karen Derenne, ’99, married Christopher Robinson on Oct. 16. The couple work at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. “The first thing he did when I sat next to him was make fun of my shoes,” VonderHaar reminisced, laughing. “They had buttons on them, and he thought they were ball markers!” Peter Laux, ’99, and his wife, Barbara, welcomed daughter Marguerite Presely on April 23. “I thought I’d blown it,” Reffkin said. “I just remember seeing her walk into this room and thought, ‘Wow, I didn’t think they made tall, blonde, attractive caddies like that!” Nathen Bett, ’02, and his wife, Kellie, welcomed daughter Danica Jo on March 7. She weighed 7 lbs., 5 oz., and joins brother Langdon. After the committee meeting, the two returned to school but stayed in touch, officially getting together after VonderHaar IMed him following a 2006 MinnesotaPurdue football game. They dated long distance after college before VonderHaar moved to Indianapolis in 2009. Months later, Reffkin proposed. They married April 30, surrounded by Scholars from both schools. “There was no way in my wildest dreams that she would be my wife,” Reffkin said. “The stars just kind of aligned.” His new wife agreed. “I’m thrilled....and all because we caddied,” she said. “Who would’ve thought?” Tim Brunow, ’02, is an assistant relationship manager in the commercial real estate department at US Bank in Milwaukee. He and his wife, Christine, welcomed daughter Marissa on June 29, 2010. She joins brother Zach, 3. theMACreport The chances of Cathleen VonderHaar (Minn. ‘05) and Christopher Reffkin (Pur. ‘05) meeting were slim to none. She went to the University of Minnesota. He went to Purdue University – 530 miles apart. If their partners for that fateful March 2004 Evans Scholars National Committee meeting both hadn’t been missing, if there hadn’t been an empty chair next to Reffkin… if they hadn’t caddied and earned Evans Scholarships, they never would have met. Matt Brukman, ’98, is a staff scientist at University of Pennsylvania Nano-Bio Interface Center. He married Claire Holroyde on wisconsin Oct. 23. Karen Derenne (Wis. ’99) married Christopher Robinson on Oct. 16. Andrew Bethke, ’11, is pursuing a master’s in social work at the University of Wisconsin. Nate Cira, ’11, is pursuing a Ph.D. in bioengineering at Stanford University near Palo Alto, California. Samuel Irwin, ’11, is enrolled in the Peace Corps in Africa. Christine and Tim Brunow’s (Wis. ’02) daughter, Marissa, born June 29, 2010. Summer 2011 43 in memoriam Benjamin Dodt (Mo. ‘06) Ted Pasquesi (NU ‘52) Benjamin Dodt of Denver, and formerly of McHenry, Ill., died suddenly on Feb. 26. He loved Colorado’s outdoors and was an engineer with Knight Piesold in Denver. He is survived by his wife, Kate; parents, Bruce and Esther; sister, Gwendolyn Parsin; grandparents, Owen and Claudette Dodt, and Samuel Dikelsky; lots of loving relatives and many dear friends. -From the Theodore Alfonso Pasquesi, 80, of Highland Park, Ill., passed away March 20. He was the father of Thomas, John and David; grandfather of Sam, Sara, Giancarlo, Luca, Teddy and Nina Pasquesi; brother of Joan Pucin and the late Francis Rizzolo Mazzocco; and uncle of many. -From the Chicago Tribune Stillwater Gazette David Roush (Ind. ‘79) Richard Gregory (Wis. ‘57) David Allen Roush, 53, of Las Vegas, passed away April 9. He was a senior vice president with Bank of Nevada. He was active over the years with the YMCA, Las Vegas Founders Club, Junior Golf and Boys & Girls Clubs. -From the Las Vegas Review-Journal Richard (Dick) Gregory, 76, passed peacefully at home in Pleasanton, Calif., on Oct. 31. He was a talented musician playing clarinet in a jazz band and singing bass in everything from barbershop to concert choir. He enjoyed golf, sports, travel, church, friends and family. Lester Hayashi (UC-Berkeley ‘76) Lester K. Hayashi died on Nov. 3. He was a teaching golf pro at Lomas Santa Fe in Solana Beach, Calif., for 29 years. “Lester was a rock, a fixture,” said Eby Dobson, a 16-year member who was Hayashi’s friend and student. “He’s going to be incredibly missed.” -From the San Diego Union-Tribune Mark Lally (OSU ‘69) Mark S. Lally, 63, died peacefully at home in Clintonville, Ohio, on Nov. 25. After graduating from The Ohio State College of Law, he taught at St. Thomas Aquinas Elementary School, Zanesville, worked for the Court of Claims of the State of Ohio, and was a president and legislative counsel for Ohio Right to Life. He is survived by brother, Jack Lally; and sisters, Rita Ralston, Judith Pellican and Karen Lally. -From the Columbus Dispatch Thomas Tatnall (Ill. ‘63) Thomas W. Tatnall, a PGA Master Professional from Ridgeland, Miss., passed away April 6. He was a PGA member for 46 years, a consultant with Ridgeland’s SkyHawke Technologies (SkyGolf), an adjunct faculty member for the PGA Education Program, and he operated Tatnall Associates. He is survived by his wife, Pamela, children Tracy Tatnall Segal, Todd George Tatnall, and Sarah Dee Tatnall, as well as grandchildren. -From the Clarion Ledger John Whyte (Mo. ‘85) John Whyte died suddenly on June 6. He was a decorated veteran, having been awarded a Bronze Star for his efforts with the United States Marine Corps in Fallujah, Iraq. He taught high school and coached in the Lee’s Summit district in Missouri for eight years, and most recently, he worked in international shipments for Compass Minerals in Overland Park, Kan. OSU Evans Scholars Faculty Advisor Don Denny (1942-2010) Don Denny was a beloved faculty advisor to the Evans Scholars chapter at The Ohio State University for 21 years. He died Dec. 18 at the age of 68. Denny was a remarkable servant and leader, and a mentor to so many Evans Scholars and 44 The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine other faculty advisors, in addition to becoming a WGA Director and the chairman of the Hamilton Scholarship House. “Don did so much for me during my time at OSU, and I feel so blessed and thankful to have known him,” says Steve Leffingwell (OSU ‘00). from the archives Ohio State University honored Chick Evans in September 1977, presenting him with the school’s Distinguished Service Award at an Ohio State football game before a crowd of 84,000 fans. The OSU band provided a memorable background for the ceremony, spelling out “Chick” on the field. for Chick Evans... the biggest thrill in the game of golf was not his 54 victories, or his numerous honors. It was the success of the Evans Scholars Foundation and the young people whose lives were changed forever by his dream. It’s been more than 80 years since it all started, and still... Above, from left: thenOhio State president Dr. Harold Enarson, thenWGA president Robert Bohnen, Chick Evans and then-Evans Scholars Foundation trustee Earl Hamilton. Chick’s legacy marches on 45 45 Summer 2011 Summer 2011 NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID 1 Briar Road Golf, IL 60029 Evans Scholars Foundation USPS 1000 Approved Poly Return Service Requested It’s on the course where caddies are mentored by successful adults, learn life lessons and develop a strong work ethic. It is where they take their own shot at opportunity — earning an Evans Scholarship. Caddying is more than a summer job — it’s an investment in the future. Photo by Charles Cherney 46 The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine The WGA Evans Scholars Magazine: A publication of the Western Golf Association, Evans Scholars Foundation and Evans Scholars Alumni Association