Alumni News | Lawrence University

Megan Urban '04, a Fort Union ranger, teaches about 19th century life

Urban

The idea of traveling through time enchants many people, but Megan Urban gets to live it. Urban was born in the 20th century, works in the 21st, but occasionally she travels to the 19th century and she finds that fascinating. “I think it would be really interesting to be part of American history right after the Civil War,” she says. “I would want to observe the thought process of how America was changing.”

Urban is an education tech working for the National Park Service at Fort Union National Monument north of Las Vegas, N.M. She will be among the park service employees bringing Fort Union back to life during Candlelight Tours on Aug. 11

Fort Union was a military supply depot along the Santa Fe Trail between 1851 and 1891. During the Candlelight Tours staff members use skits to portray the fort’s history.

For the second consecutive year, Urban says, the 3,800 Buffalo Soldiers sent to the United States’ frontier will be the theme of the presentations. She hasn’t written this year’s skits yet, but last year Urban did a lot of research about a soldier named William Cathay – whose name was Cathy Williams until she decided to become the first African-American woman to join the U.S. Army in 1866. Read More

Melissa Cardamone '04 the guest artist soprano at the Racine Concert

Kenosha News Melissa Cardamone is the guest artist soprano at the The Racine Concert. A graduate of Lawrence University and the Eastman School of Music, Cardamone is a staff pianist at Carthage College and a frequent performer as a soprano with professional companies including the Skylight Opera Theater, the Sunset Playhouse, the Milwaukee Opera Theater and Music by the Lake. She’ll sing the “Jewel Song” from Charles Gounod’s opera “Faust” and the lighthearted “Italian Street Song” from Victor Herbert’s “Naughty Marietta” operetta.

Later in the concert, she will return to the stage to sing two standards, the Gershwin brothers’ “S’Wonderful” and “Love’s Old Sweet Song” by James Molloy.

Weiss will be the featured trumpet soloist for a modernized bossa nova version of Leroy Anderson’s “Serenata,” arranged by Dave Wolpe. Read More

Jess Salek '95 featured on the "one voice" concert

westby times Jess received his Bachelor of Music in piano performance from Lawrence University in Appleton in 1995 and his Master of Music in piano performance from Stony Brook University in New York in 1997.

With his schooling complete he worked as accompanist and music theory Instructor at Interlochen Arts Academy and Camp from 1997-1999. He returned to Wisconsin in 1999 and began working on his Doctor of Musical Arts Degree in piano performance at UW-Madison. From there he worked as pianist for Opera for the Young for two seasons, and from 2009-2013 he was music director of Fresco Opera Theatre, a nonprofit group dedicated to staging original modern productions of opera classics to appeal to audiences both seasoned and new. Read More

Kelly Hackett '90 music being featured in musical theaters

google Hackett is a graduate of WHS and Lawrence University who has appeared in numerous musicals across the country, including “The Sound of Music,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” “Sunday in the Park with George,” “Little Shop of Horrors” and “South Pacific.”

In Waupaca, she performed in “Oliver,” “The King and I” and “Into the Woods.” read more

Christopher Chan '04 with Peninsula players theater hosts Miss Holmes pre-show Seminar

Kenosha News Peninsula Players Theatre, in conjunction with its production of Christopher M. Walsh's "Miss Holmes," will host Agatha Christie scholar Dr. Christopher Chan Saturday, July 21 at 6:30 p.m. who will speak about the Holmesian characters. Tickets to performances are available; admission to the pre-show seminar is free.
Chan, a Lawrence University graduate and Agatha Christie website editor, will speak about the female characters in the canon of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes series.

Chan lives in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and earned his Ph.D. in U.S. history from Marquette University. He also earned a Master of Library and Information Science degree from UW-Milwaukee.

He teaches online graduate history classes and works as an International Goodwill Ambassador for the official Agatha Christie website, www.agathachristie.com. He also writes for the magazine Gilbert at chesterton.org, which specializes in book and television reviews in addition to writing historical and critical essays on Agatha Christie's. Read more

Collin McCanna '11 brings serene views to library

google McCanna has exhibited work at Brothers K Coffeehouse, BLICK Art Materials, and Other Brother Coffeehouse.

He is a graduate of Lawrence University and Northwestern University and has studied abroad at the American University of Rome, Italy, with commissioned works featured in Washington, D.C. and Wisconsin.

He volunteers at The Art Institute of Chicago and is affiliated with the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, Museum of Contemporary Art – Chicago, and The History Museum at The Castle in Appleton, Wisconsin.

“This body of work simplifies landscapes to its purest form. My hope is that viewers will experience a bit of calm and serenity amidst their busy lives. The Evanston Public Library is one of my favorite spots in town, and I’m honored to be able to showcase my work here.” Read More

Thomas A. Steitz, 78, Dies; Illuminated a Building Block of Life

newyork times Thomas Arthur Steitz was born in Milwaukee on Aug. 23, 1940, the oldest of five children. His father, Arthur, was in charge of personnel at the Milwaukee County Hospital. His mother, Catherine (Brown) Steitz, took care of Tom and his siblings. Until he was 9 his family lived above a paint store. They then moved to a Milwaukee suburb, Wauwatosa, Wis.

Dr. Steitz received a full scholarship to Lawrence College, in Appleton, Wis., where his teacher Robert Rosenberg, a shaping influence on him, introduced him to chemistry. “I still recall the early lectures in his introductory chemistry course, where he introduced to us the concepts of atomic orbitals and bonding and how studying chemistry at the physical chemical atomic level allowed us to understand the properties of chemicals, such as their color,” Dr. Steitz wrote in his Nobel autobiography. “It was a wonderful revelation to me about how the world around me could be understood.” Read more

Catherine Gulsvig Wood '79 urges less-technical approach to drawing women to tech

Catherine Gulsvig Wood singing in Lloyd's choir 5/14/2018

Accenture cloud software architect Catherine Gulsvig Wood, who started her career in tech thanks to a fortuitous meeting in a college computer lab, still uses her music training to sing with the Lloyd's Choir in London.

In an economy hungry for tech workers, there's ever-growing emphasis on science and math education for girls to help fill the yawning gender gap in technology - and opportunity in male-dominated careers. Catherine Gulsvig Wood embodies another path.

Wood is part of a software-architecture duo at consultant Accenture that recently was awarded a patent for “multi-cloud tagging capability” for the Accenture server-cloud platform.

“Our new tagging technology frees IT departments from concerns over how to manage cloud assets,” she said.

Wood, 61, a Wisconsin native who lives in St. Paul, studied piano and music theory at Lawrence University.

“I think ‘girls who code’ initiatives are great,” Wood said. “I think it also might be a bit of a deterrent. You don’t have to be a coder to be a girl in technology. That cuts off a lot of people who can contribute. And it gives the illusion that tech is all about code.”

World-class Baritone Keith Harris '98 to work with Sturgeon Bay Students

Keith Harris 5/18/2018

It's likely that not too many people in Door County have heard a live performance by a world-class opera singer. That can change in a few days, when Keith Harris, a singer, voice teacher and voice-over artist, will be in residence at Sturgeon Bay High School. He'll work with middle- and high-school choral musicians on May 21, conducting clinics during their choir classes. READ MORE...

Andy Gussert '91 directs state Boys and Girls Clubs

Andy Gussert '91 5/11/2018

Clintonville High School graduate Andy Gussert has his sights on making a difference in the lives of Wisconsin’s youth. Hired as the state alliance director for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Wisconsin in December, Gussert said his role is to support the children.

“My job is essentially lobbying for kids across the state in these clubs,” Gussert said. “We have 142,000 kids at 155 sites in about 50 cities, and we’re continuing to grow. My job is to continue to raise money and advocate for the importance of these clubs.” READ MORE...

Third Door Kinetic Arts Festival, founded by Eric Simonson '82 to be held at Björklunden

Eric Simonson and Alan Kopischke 5/13/2018

BAILEYS HARBOR, Wis. (WFRV) - DKAF sounds like decaf when spoken, but it’s not decaffeinated. Door Kinetic Arts Festival (DKAF) is a week of creative people getting together to explore new work – either make it from scratch, polish it or absorb it.

The festival is in its third year. Final preparations are being made for the 2018 edition, which will take place June 10 to 15 at Bjorklunden Lodge. Key in the festival are brothers-in-law, writer/director Eric Simonson and actor/organizational guy Alan Kopischke. Simonson is the festival’s founder, and Kopischke is its producer. READ MORE...

UW-Fox Valley Foundation Board welcomes Dr. Bobby Yun '91

Dr. Bobby Yun headshot 1/10/2015

Yun earned his undergraduate at Lawrence University, his medical degree at UW-Madison, and has now come full circle by joining the UW-Fox Valley Foundation Board. The president/owner of Urgent Care Physicians in Appleton, Yun is currently a member of the American Academy of Family Practice, the American Medical Association and the Urgent Care Association of America. He will also continue to serve as a diplomat of the American Board of Family Medicine, a post he has held since 2006.

Damian LaCroix '91 named 2017 wisconsin superintendent of the year

Damien LaCroix picture 11/04/2016

The Wisconsin Association of School District Administrators is pleased to announce the selection of Damian LaCroix as Wisconsin’s 2017 Superintendent of the Year.

LaCroix has served for 12 years as the Superintendent for the Howard-Suamico School District (HSSD), a high-performing Pre-K-12 district serving 6,100 students in Northeast Wisconsin. His vision for public education has resulted in the development of innovative student programming aimed at ensuring that all students are college, career, and citizenship ready.

Under LaCroix’s leadership, HSSD won the Proficiency Award from the Wisconsin Center for Performance Excellence, Bay Port High School has been recognized nationally by Newsweek and the Washington Post as one of the top high schools in America, and two elementary schools have been acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education as National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence award winners. Furthermore, in the past five years he has mentored team members to high levels of professional achievement including the Wisconsin Principal of the Year, Assistant Principal of the Year, Business Official of the Year, and the Wisconsin School Public Relations Association Lighthouse award.

Adam Meckler '07 orchestra at JAM fall festival

Adam Meckler '07 with orchestra 10/25/2016

Minneapolis Public Schools and Jazz88 (KBEM 88.5 FM) present the second annual J.A.M. (Jazz Around Minneapolis) Fall Festival at North High School on Friday, October 28. This year, the free evening concert features the acclaimed Adam Meckler Orchestra, an 18-piece jazz ensemble led by trumpeter/educator/composer Adam Meckler. The concert will be a culmination of a full day of workshops for high school jazz students facilitated by MPS jazz band faculty, Adam Meckler, and other professional jazz musicians. The concert (open to the public) will begin at 7 pm in the North High School Auditorium. Donations will be accepted at the door.

The JAM Fall Festival will showcase students’ jazz talent, and workshops will help them develop their performance skills and abilities in music generally. All student musicians will have an opportunity to perform during the concert. Students from all seven Minneapolis high schools will participate: South, Southwest, Washburn, Edison, Roosevelt, Patrick Henry and North High School. The concert will be recorded for later broadcast on Jazz 88’s Jazz at MPS program, heard on Monday nights at 8 pm.

Kent Matthies '90 spreads message of love and inclusion

Kent Matthies in front of church 10/21/2016

Rev. Kent Matthies has always had a passion to connect philosophy, theology, art, politics, science and spirituality within his community. The best way to do so, he says, is through religion.

Matthies, 48, is the minister at the Unitarian Society of Germantown (USG), founded 151 years ago, where he has been devoted to encouraging and empowering people in his community since 2002.The church moved into its current building at 6511 Lincoln Drive in Mt. Airy in 1928.)

“Working in the congregation is magical,” Matthies says. “From helping people find jobs, fighting climate change or visiting people in the hospital and singing hymns together, it all provides our congregational life’s rich connections and satisfaction. The influence of religion makes the world more just and allows you to celebrate life. I was drawn to religion from the very start and always feel excited to go wider and deeper.”

Junko Fujiwara '93 Plays in Benefit Concert for Climate Change

November 18, 2015

On Saturday, November 7, the twelfth “Playing For The Planet” benefit concert will showcase master musicians from three different musical traditions in a rare evening of pan-cultural improvisation, with all proceeds going to benefit the environmental advocacy group 350MA.org. The performers include flute master Geni Skendo's "Astronauts of Albania," the boundary-bending explorations of the Strings Theory Trio, and the acclaimed Hindustani vocal music of Smt. Shuchita Rao.

Kevin Peters '04 Serves as Guest Conductor for the Eau Claire Chamber Orchestra

November 18, 2015

The Eau Claire Chamber Orchestra’s upcoming concert will feature a variety of composers and musical styles, guest conductor Kevin Peters said.

Shriver Center names Gavin Kearney '91 as First Director of the Legal Impact Network

November 18, 2015

John Bouman, President of the Sargent Shriver National Center on Poverty Law (Shriver Center), has announced that Gavin Kearney will join the organization as the first director of the Legal Impact Network, a national network of legal organizations from 30 states and Washington, D.C., working collaboratively to advance justice and opportunity for people living in poverty. This new position is funded through the generous support of The Kresge Foundation and The JPB Foundation.

Oren Jakobson '11 and Hava Blair '13 make their debut with their farm, Field Notes Farm in Custer

March 13, 2015

Oren Jakobson and Hava Blair, owners of the new Field Notes Farm in Custer, met at Lawrence University and worked in the SLUG (Sustainable Lawrence University Gardens) program. Until November, they worked at Riverview Gardens, an urban farm in the center of Appleton. He was farm operations director and she was CSA and markets manager.

Carnegie Museum of Art appoints Dan Leers '02 as Curator of Photography

March 10, 2015

Most recently a New York–based independent curator, Leers worked on the 2013 Venice Biennale, during which he served as an advisor on contemporary African Art. Prior to this, he was the Beaumont & Nancy Newhall Curatorial Fellow in the Department of Photography at the Museum of Modern Art, New York. He received his undergraduate degree from Lawrence University in Wisconsin and his master’s degree in modern art: curatorial studies from Columbia University, New York.

Leers joins CMOA on April 27, 2015. His responsibilities include shaping the Department of Photography’s collection through strategic acquisitions, organizing exhibitions, and serving as the museum’s internal agent for the next cycle of the innovative Hillman Photography Initiative, which launched in 2013, garnering international recognition for its groundbreaking structure and programming.

Liz Murphy '70 as one of five new members appointed to Laurel Lake Board of Directors

March 8, 2015

Murphy is one of Hudson's best known citizens, a successful businesswoman and dedicated community volunteer. She owned and operated The Learned Owl Book Shop, one of the region's oldest independent booksellers, for nearly 30 years, transforming the downtown Hudson shop into a thriving business that sponsored community events like the wildly popular Harry Potter Festivals, drawing many thousands of visitors and garnering national attention. Prior to purchasing the shop, Liz worked for Marriott Corporation, Olga Corporation, Hewlett Packard, Pacific Bell Telephone and A.T. Kearney Executive Search.

Matt Kornis '06, Former Sea Grant Student, Now Works With Millions of Fish

March 6, 2015

After three years at the center, Kornis, a native of Glendale, Wis., moved back to Wisconsin to work for the Great Lakes Mass Marking Program. With the help of an automated process that can handle over 8,000 fish per hour, USFWS biologists have inserted tiny coded wire tags into the snouts of 16 million Chinook salmon and 28.5 million lake trout stocked into lakes Michigan and Huron since 2010.

Mary Jo Johnson '79 as one of Security Health Plan of Wisconsin, Inc.'s two new Board members

March 6, 2015

“I’m excited to join Security Health Plan’s Board of Directors. I see really good leadership with this organization,” Johnson said. “Security Health Plan has a strong commitment to improving care, managing costs and is active in the community. If you are part of the community, you have to give back to the community and I see Security Health Plan is doing that.”

Dr. Kristen Schwindt-Brown '97 joins CMMC Family Medicine Residency‏

March 4, 2015

“Dr. Brown has a gift and great enthusiasm for providing care to young people. She is also focused on connecting with our community to help all kids maintain good health,” says Raj Woolever, M.D., the residency’s program director.

“Teaching the next generation of physicians to care for children is both a privilege and passion for me. It is essential for the health of our community that its youngest members get the care, advocacy, and support they deserve,” Brown says.

Former Group President of Calvin Klein Underwear Global, Martha Olson '77, Joins Naked Board of Directors

March 3, 2015

“Martha’s distinguished global expertise in fashion and consumer lifestyle brands, her inspiring leadership, and passion for the industry are powerful additions to Naked’s Board. We are so excited to start working with her closely and benefiting from her unique talents,” said Carole Hochman, CEO and Chief Creative Officer of Naked.

“I am honored to join the Naked board and work with this truly exceptional team led by Carole Hochman,” says Olson. “Based on my experience at Calvin Klein, Warnaco and in the global underwear industry, I see enormous opportunities for the Naked brand. I look forward to sharing my experiences and contributing to the future direction and success of this exciting brand.”

Garth Neustadter '10 as Score Composer for new film "Pilot Error"

March 2, 2015

Thomas Nathan '72 Recognized as a Leader in Personal Injury Law

February 27, 2015

Driven by a deep sense of social responsibility, Mr. Nathan made the choice to embark on a legal career nearly 40 years ago. As a specialist in medical malpractice, he leads the Law Offices of Munday, Nathan & Schulkin in its goal to provide high-quality representation for individuals involved in catastrophic injury cases.

"Mr. Nathan is actively involved with a variety of organizations that extend outside of the legal profession as well."

Cory Nettles '92 Gives a Message to the 40 Under 40 winners: 'Success is about people'

February 26, 2015

"The cliche that it really is 'all about the people,'" said Nettles, who was inducted into the Milwaukee Business Journal's 40 Under 40 Hall of Fame on Feb. 23. "Human capital properly deployed is the single most important factor in the success of any business."

Nettles, a 40 Under 40 award winner in 2007, is the founder and managing director of Generation Growth Capital Inc., a private equity fund focused on buyouts and providing growth capital to small businesses and lower-middle market companies in the upper Midwest. Nettles also is a partner-of counsel at Milwaukee law firm Quarles & Brady LLP.

Jeff Kurtenacker '99 Reflects on his Lawrence Experience

February 20, 2015

"I was asked to come back and speak at Lawrence University to a group of students who are passionate about music of all kinds, and passionate about getting out in the world and pursuing their dreams... I wanted to get into more of the emotional stamina and dealing with failures and insecurities and how to make progress in the midst of struggles and frustration."

Zachary Johnson '06 and a song a day

February 19, 2015

Around 2010, "a lot of things changed -- not as many records were being sold," Mr. Johnson said of the impetus behind his channel. "People were exploring new avenues, social media was becoming a big thing, and it was important to have a presence."

He heard that YouTube was the top source for people hearing new music, and discovering new artists, so he wanted to have a unique presence on the site.

Martha Bresler '62 as one of three to vie for School Board seat in Tuesday’s primary

February 16, 2015

“I think I’m as passionate about education today as when I started,” Bresler said. “I still find a lot of satisfaction in working with students and being part of groups that explore ways in where they learn how to do things.”

Bresler was a teacher in the East Troy School District for 34 years and said she wants to continue being an advocate for the students in the district.

She said one of her concerns about the district and education in general, is the “education climate in the state” with legislators making decisions from a “business point of view” instead of from an educational standpoint.

How crowdfunding saved Olivia Quintanilla '12 and her cello

February 11, 2015

For her day job, Quintanilla works in the nonprofit world, so she's seen first hand how crowd-sourcing can be used to raise money. "I've helped with Give to the Max Day for public schools, so I knew it was effective," she said. "It doesn't hurt to ask. So I decided to just swallow my pride and go for it."

Ansel Wallenfang '03 gets 30 seconds of Super Bowl glory

February 4, 2015

Wallenfang, 34, a 1999 graduate of Appleton West High School and a 2003 graduate of Lawrence University, was the co-writer of the Aaron Paul-narrated Weight Watchers commercial that aired during Sunday's Super Bowl telecast.

"In this industry, you are only as good as your next idea, so the pressure is always on," said Wallenfang, who works for the Portland, Oregon-based Wieden+Kennedy advertising agency. "But having some real money to make our spot was exciting because we knew we could execute something really special."

Godfrey and Kahn, S.C. Elects Jeffrey Billings '03 as one of eight new shareholders

February 3, 2015

Billings is a shareholder in the firm’s Estate Planning and Estate & Trust Administration Practice Groups. His practice is concentrated in the areas of estate and gift tax planning, business succession planning, fiduciary income taxation, charitable giving and private foundation work, probate, estate and trust administration, retirement benefit and life insurance planning, the negotiation of prenuptial and marital property agreements, and same-sex planning. Billings received his J.D., cum laude, from the University of Michigan Law School and earned his bachelor’s degree, summa cum laude, from Lawrence University.

Spotlight: Mary Luehrsen '75 – An Advocate For All

January 29, 2015

One of today’s most passionate, effective advocates for music making and music education, Mary Luehrsen has directly impacted – for the better – the lives of so many who participate in, support, or simply appreciate the culture of music in contemporary American society. A former professional flutist, a veteran music teacher, and currently the executive director of the NAMM Foundation, hers has been a life shaped and defined by a love of the positive impact that music can have on individuals and communities.

J.B. deRosset '66 Returns to LU for the 50th Great Midwest Trivia Contest

January 29, 2015

Palmetto Bay resident, lawyer J.B. deRosset '66, traveled to his alma mater, Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin, last weekend to help ring in the 50th birthday of his baby: the Great Midwest Trivia Contest. It runs the weekend before the Super Bowl for 50 consecutive hours.

On the Brink: Emily Birsan '08

January 27, 2015

Now 29 and based in the Windy City, Birsan recently completed an impressive three-year tenure as a Young Artist with the Lyric Opera of Chicago’s Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center for emerging operatic talents. And the classical music world is welcoming the singer with open arms as she’s on the cusp of an exciting international musical career and set to make her debut as Leila in the Florida Grand Opera’s production of Bizet’s The Pearlfishers in March.

And with an array of even more opportunities on the horizon and an impressive roster of musical experiences under her belt, Birsan has established herself as an emerging artist to watch in the world of classical music.

LSU names Thomas V. Skinner '83 as its new general counsel

January 23, 2015

Skinner will serve as chief legal adviser to the LSU president and Board of Supervisors.

Skinner, who most recently served as a partner at Jones Day, received his Juris Doctorate at Northwestern University School of Law in 1987, where he was a member of the Law Review, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in government from Lawrence University in 1983.

Komets' Phil Bushbacher '13 fighting to keep roster spot

January 23, 2015

Bushbacher, 25, is a typical minor league hockey journeyman looking for a home. He played at two colleges and last year as a rookie filled in on three teams. Komets are his second team this year.

He can play either wing position and center. He can muck in the corners, fight if necessary or take a beating in front of the net as he tries to distract the goaltenders. He does whatever is asked whether that means a regular shift or no shift at all.

Kristin Hammargren '08 performs in her play, “Discovering Austen”

January 23, 2015

The play is by Kristin Hammargren, a 2008 graduate of Lawrence University who portrays an actress who is about to portray Jane Austen on the opening night of a play she feels the director has tipped askew. The actress seeks to find the gist of Jane.

Hammargren wrote the play as her master of fine arts thesis, and she later earned the opportunity to bring it to a fuller production. By rights, “Discovering Austen” should have a long life.

Rick Chandler '74 named to Governor Walker's Administration Cabinet

January 6, 2015

Chandler was first appointed by Governor Walker as DOR Secretary in 2011 and was re-appointed for a second term. He has over 20 years working in state government previously working as Revenue Secretary under Governor Scott McCallum from 2001 to 2003 and as State Budget Director under Governor Tommy G. Thompson from 1987 to 2001. He is a graduate of Lawrence University and the University of Chicago Law School.

Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Corporation (MGIC) names Sean Dilweg '89 as Senior Vice President – Government Relations

January 5, 2015

In his newly created position, Mr. Dilweg will lead MGIC's Washington, D.C. government relations activities relating to housing policy to help shape the discussion of the issues impacting the private mortgage insurance industry.

"I am very pleased to have Sean join the MGIC leadership team," said Patrick Sinks, President and Chief Operating Officer. "His background and unique experience make Sean well suited to lead our government relations efforts on the many housing policy issues we face."

Alison Hudson '09 to document Sherpa life and work in the Everest region of Nepal

January 5, 2015

Alison Hudson of Southwest Harbor is a filmmaker working to produce “Close to the Edge: Life in the Khumbu,” a film that will document what life as a Sherpa in the Nepal Himalaya is all about and what makes these hardy people want to take on the difficult and dangerous job of working for climbing expeditions to 29,029-foot Mount Everest. This is the first in a series of profiles on extraordinary Mainers making a difference in the outdoor world.

The Academy Art Museum in Easton, Md. names Dennis McFadden '74 as Director of the Academy Art Museum

December 29, 2014

The Academy Art Museum in Easton, Md. is pleased to announce that Dennis McFadden of Wellesley, Mass. will assume the position of Director of the Academy Art Museum on February 1, 2015. McFadden is a native of Bethlehem, Pa. He received his undergraduate education at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wis. and earned a Master of Architecture degree and completed additional graduate study in Art History at Columbia University.

Jarrad Bittner '10 named executive director of the Building for Kids Children’s Museum

December 15, 2014

Jarrad Bittner, a 2010 graduate of Lawrence University, always knew Appleton would some day be his permanent home.

“It was always more of a home to me than anyplace else,” said the native of Hawaii who has also lived in Iowa, Arizona and, for a few months, Aspen, Colorado. “I love Appleton. It’s a small community, but it has so much. ... I’m so happy to be back and I hope I don’t have to leave.”

Worcester Art Museum Taps Elizabeth Athens '99 to Be Assistant Curator of American Art

December 11, 2014

The Worcester Art Museum, of Worcester, Massachusetts, hired Elizabeth Athens, a Ph.D. candidate in art history at Yale, as its new assistant curator of American art. A specialist in 18th- and 19th-century American art, she will start at the museum March 16, 2015.

DuPage Children's Museum to name Susan Stellmacher '03 as the new director of development

December 5, 2014

"I am thrilled to return to Naperville and to join the DuPage Children's Museum's leadership team," Stellmacher said. "I can't think of a better place that aligns my personal and professional values. This will be a rewarding continuation of the career successes I have experienced to date, and have great plans for continuing the mission of the museum."

Kendall County Forest Preserve District Board names David Guritz '93 as the new director

December 4, 2014

"I think it is a great move in terms of my career and my professional and personal objectives for continuing on in the field of conservation and working to conserve natural resources in the Chicago area," he said.

Guritz added that he has over 20 years of administrative experience, something the board was looking for in their candidates.

Emily Rohm '01 as the lead role of Mary Poppins in Mary Poppins Musical at the Paramount Theatre in Aurora, Illinois

December 4, 2014

After Wednesday’s matinee performance, we got to sit down with Emily Rohm (aka Mary Poppins) to shoot the breeze. What a nice, fun, lovely person to get to hang with.

She shared what it’s like to prepare for the role, what it’s like to fly and what it’s like to get into a multi-multi-multi-layered costume only to find out you have to go to the bathroom. We also talked about her other passion, designing wedding gowns and accessories. Check out rohm.etsy.com to see her amazing artistry off the stage.

One safety tip from Emily: don’t get caught leaving the theater during curtain call , you may run smack dab into Mary Poppins who will have a thing or two to say about it. Check it all out below.

Laura Stefani '91 to join Fletcher, Heald & Hildreth as Of Counsel

December 2, 2014

Stefani joins the firm after practicing telecommunications law for more than ten years with another Washington-based law firm. Her primary professional focus is new and emerging technologies. She has experience in the areas of spectrum allocation and sharing, wireless services, unlicensed and experimental operations and the regulation of equipment.

John Cornelius McMullen, Class of 1860, to have collected a flower that links Civil War, natural history and ‘the blood of heroes’

November 24, 2014

"This specimen shows that our collection also has value for understanding history and bridging the sciences with the humanities. This comes down from a time when all well-educated people had a different view of nature and collecting plants was a common activity. There are treasures in the collection that we don't know we are sitting on."

Mary Dinauer '75 named an AAAS Fellow

November 24, 2014

Dinauer, the Fred M. Saigh Distinguished Chair in Pediatric Research at St. Louis Children’s Hospital and professor of pediatrics at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, is being recognized for her distinguished contributions to understanding the enzyme defect in chronic granulomatous disease — a life-threatening genetic disorder in which certain immune system cells are unable to kill some types of bacteria and fungi — and developing strategies for gene therapy to treat the disorder.

Ellen Cutter '77, River Forest children’s librarian, butterfly mastermind and face of story time, retires

November 21, 2014

Since joining the staff 13 years ago, Cutter, 59, has played an instrumental role in attracting children and parents to the library, at 735 Lathrop Avenue. In addition to building relationships with local schools, she has been a constant presence at the library’s storytelling events, book clubs and summer programs.

Cheryl Ronk '78, president of the Michigan Society of Association Executives (MSAE), has been appointed to the Burcham Hills Retirement Community board of trustees.

November 18, 2014

Ronk became a Certified Association Executive in 1995 and a Certified Meeting Professional in 2003. She earned a bachelor’s degree at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisc. and a master’s degree in educational leadership at Western Michigan University.

Artist Scott Frankenberger '71 and his artistic journey

November 18, 2014

Frankenberger was born in St. Louis, Missouri, and later attended school in La Grange Park, Illinois. He never enrolled in a single art class while attending Lyons Township High School. “I was in college prep courses — science, math and language are what was stressed,” he says. After high school he enrolled at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin, as an undeclared major taking math courses.

Alisa Jordheim '09, soprano, as one of three of the featured singers in “Fidelio” to mark their Madison Opera debut

November 17, 2014

Those singers include soprano Alisa Jordheim, 28, who will play Marzelline. An Appleton native, Jordheim studied for two years at Lawrence University, where her father is the saxophone professor and her mother is an instructor of flute. She moved to the University of Cincinnati, where she is currently working on her doctorate.

Julia Gaines '91 marches to her own beat as the new MU music director

November 17, 2014

When the University of Missouri Friends of Music Board of Directors met recently, they were greeted by the new director of the School of Music — a raven-haired, 45-year-old mother of two named Julia Gaines, who has spent her performance career as a percussionist, mastering drums, marimba, vibraphone and dozens of other instruments — a far cry from her predecessor, classical violinist Rob Shay, who moved on in June to become Dean of the University of Colorado College of Music.

Justin Berkowitz '10 to perform at Bluffton University’s 119th performance of Handel’s “Messiah”

November 12, 2014

Bluffton University’s music department has announced the soloists for its 119th performance of Handel’s “Messiah,” at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, in Founders Hall. Soloists are Dr. Helen Allen, soprano; Stephanie Schoenhofer, mezzo-soprano; Justin Berkowitz, tenor; and Lance Ashmore, baritone.

Cory Nettles '92 to join Milwaukee Bucks franchise in dramatic expansion of their ownership group

October 16, 2014

In a dramatic expansion of their ownership group, the Milwaukee Bucks will announce Friday that five prominent African-American business leaders and philanthropists, as well as two well-known Milwaukee business executives, have joined the franchise.

LU All American Pat Schwanke '83 named Packers High School Coach of the Week

October 14, 2014

The Packers have announced that Pat Schwanke of Appleton East High School has been named Green Bay Packers High School Coach of the Week.

Schwanke, in his 24th year as the head coach of Appleton East, led the Patriots to a 10-9 victory over conference rivals Appleton North. Friday’s victory gave the Patriots their first win over the Lightning since 2003 and secured a spot in the 2014 WIAA Football Playoffs.

Alexander House features painter, jewelry maker, Sarah Rezin '82

October 9, 2014

The Alexander House fall season continues with a new exhibition featuring the watercolor paintings of Thomas Wright of Rome and the fused glass sculpture and jewelry of Sara Rezin of Appleton.

An opening reception will be from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10. The artists will be present. Refreshments will be served. The exhibit will continue through Nov. 18.

Laura Caviani '84 as jazz pianist for Carleton's Jazz Allstars, "JazzAx" performance

October 7, 2014

Laura Caviani is the Director of the Carleton Jazz Ensemble and Lecturer in Jazz Piano. She received the B.M. in Composition from Lawrence University and the M.M. in Improvisation from the University of Michigan.

Jazz all-stars “JazzAx” will appear Sunday, Oct. 12 at 3 p.m. in the Carleton College Concert Hall. Featuring Dr. David Milne (Alto Sax), Mike Walk (Alto Sax), Pete Whitman (Tenor Sax) and Greg Keel (Bari Sax)—along with jazz pianist Laura Caviani—the group will perform works by such jazz pianists as Ellington, Monk, Williams, and Brubeck, along with a Caviani original inspired by Basie.

Third Avenue Playhouse's First Musical, “The Fantasticks”, is quite the Lawrence Affair

October 6, 2014

With Madeline Bunke '14 and Luke MacMillan '14 on stage and Sophie Hernando Kofman '14 and Jenny Angeli '15 working on costume design - "The Fantasticks" is full of Lawrentian talent.

"The Fantasticks" will run at TAP through October 19.

Neal Gerber Eisenberg Adds Valerie Raedy '08 to Litigation Practice

September 30, 2014

Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg LLP is pleased to announce the addition of Valerie R. Raedy* to the firm. She is a first-year associate in Neal Gerber Eisenberg's General & Commercial Litigation practice group. Raedy was previously a summer associate at Neal Gerber Eisenberg in 2013.

Raedy earned her law degree, summa cum laude, from Chicago-Kent College of Law, and her bachelor's degree, cum laude, from Lawrence University and Conservatory.

Michael Smith '10 to be One of the Eighteen Musicians to Join Ensemble ACJW for Two-Year Fellowship Program

September 29, 2014

This season, a new group of eighteen musicians -- some of the finest professional players in the world -- will join Ensemble ACJW, a two-year fellowship program of Carnegie Hall, The Juilliard School, and the Weill Music Institute in partnership with the New York City Department of Education.

Miranda Morton '99 to head Agamim Classical Academy

September 26, 2014

Agamim Classical Academy, a free, public, Hebrew language charter school for youth grades K-8 planning to open in Golden Valley fall 2015, has named its executive director, Miranda Morton '99.

Adam Meckler '07 Orchestra brings modern twist to local jazz

September 24, 2014

Meckler '07, a trumpeter and composer, debuts the recording Friday at MacPhail Center for Music in Minneapolis. In doing so, he joins a movement of composers who aim to forge a contemporary sound, among them Minnesota's Maria Schneider, Canadian Darcy James Argue and John Hollenbeck of New York.

Donald Kersemeier '63 dashes into Lawrence Hall of Fame

September 22, 2014

Kersemeier set a trio of Lawrence dash records and won multiple Midwest Conference track and field titles.
On Oct 10, he will be recognized with the ultimate honor from the school in Appleton, Wis.

Kersemeier, a 1963 graduate, will be inducted into the Lawrence Sports Hall of Fame on Oct. 10 along with five other inductees.

Appleton personal injury lawyer Kristen Scheuerman Knutson '03 has been named a Top 40 Under 40 lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers organization

September 18, 2014

Attorney membership into The National Trial Lawyers: Top 40 under 40 professional organization is by invitation only. Invitees must demonstrate superior qualifications, trial results and leadership as a young attorney under the age of 40. The exclusive selection process is multi-phased and includes peer nominations along with third-party research. Top 40 Under 40 members are chosen based on their knowledge, skill, experience and success held by only the elite lawyers in the United States.

Jenny Burris-Paramski '04 makes Lawrence's Hall of Fame

September 15, 2014

Burris-Paramski '04 will be honored for her outstanding accomplishments in both softball and volleyball. She is inducted into the Lawrence Hall of Fame as one of six new members.

The induction ceremony takes place on Oct. 10, and the inductees will be honored at the Fall Festival football game on Oct. 11.

Trissential Strengthens Wisconsin Branch with Executive Promotion of Dave Melbye '85, from a Delivery Director to General Manager

September 15, 2014

Trissential, a management consultancy focused on business improvement, has promoted Dave Melbye, from a Delivery Director to General Manager to continue to grow and strengthen its Wisconsin branch. With this promotion, Trissential - which experienced nearly 25 percent revenue growth in 2013, solidifies its operations in southeast Wisconsin and continues to mature its capabilities and services.

Olav Bjornerud '14 completes trellis project for Riverview Gardens

September 12, 2014

Olav Bjornerud '14 completed a trellis project at Riverview Gardens. The trellises, constructed from reclaimed cypress rafter poles and cedar skins are positioned at the bases of five of the Gardens’ hoop houses.

Jeni Houser '06 talks about trying to make it in a difficult industry

September 9, 2014

Houser attended Lawrence University, where she completed a double degree program in music education and English. She taught in Madison for a year before deciding to pursue performing, “which led me to New York City for two years,” she said. “Then I went to graduate school for voice performance, earning a master’s degree from the University of Nebraska. Since then, I’ve been doing young artist programs and getting my career as an opera singer started.”

Zachary Scott Johnson '06 reaches 30 million YouTube views

September 4, 2014

On Sept. 6, 2012, Racine-born singer-songwriter Zachary Scot Johnson sat in front of a camera, played a cover of "Catch the Wind" by British folk artist Donovan, and posted the performance to YouTube.

Two years and 730 videos later, Johnson's "thesongadayproject" YouTube channel has had more than 30million views.

Madeline Bunke '14 on cast of "Private Lives" at the Third Avenue Playhouse

September 2, 2014

The play premiered at King’s Theatre in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1930. It has had numerous successful runs on Broadway, boasting such as stars Coward himself, Laurence Olivier, Tallulah Bankhead, Gertrude Lawrence, Tammy Grimes, Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, and consistently has been revived there and performed around the world ever since.

Nick Mauro '05 directed an experiment with three physics students at the Advanced Photon Source (APS) at Argonne National Laboratory

August 28, 2014

A team of three Lawrence University students recently completed a rare research opportunity at one of the nation’s premier laboratories in an effort to shed new light on how liquids can solidify. Senior Leo Sussman and juniors Ben Clark and Erika Roedl, under the direction of Nick Mauro, visiting assistant professor of physics, conducted a five-day-long experiment at the Advanced Photon Source (APS) at Argonne National Laboratory in suburban Chicago.

FBISD names Steve Shiels '90 as Director of College and Career Readiness

August 19, 2014

Steve Shiels has been named the Director of College and Career Readiness for Fort Bend ISD. Most recently, Shiels served as the College and Career Readiness Director in Pflugerville ISD. Prior to that, he was a high school lead counselor in Pflugerville ISD and a middle school lead counselor in Austin ISD.

James Skochdopole '83 Named to “Best Lawyers” List

August 18, 2014

“Bell Nunnally’s presence in Best Lawyers continues to grow, anchored by mainstays such as George and Danica,” says managing partner James Skochdopole. “While these listings are certainly an honor, serving our clients efficiently and effectively remains our only objective.”

Brian Janssen '10 brought on as Wrightstown Football Defensive Coordinator

August 18, 2014

The team brought in former Ashwaubenon and Lawrence University defensive end-linebacker Brian Janssen to serve as defensive coordinator. Janssen played under Hall of Fame coach Ken Golomski while with the Jaguars and served as a defensive backs coach at Little Chute two years ago.

Occupy Wall Street activist Cecily McMillan '11 advocates for women in prison after leaving Rikers Island

August 12, 2014

This past spring, Cecily McMillan rode a bus across a bridge to Rikers Island, home of the notorious New York City jail. When the Occupy Wall Street activist was released nearly two months later, she had left her old self behind.

University of North Texas Sandborn Room to be named in honor of Edna Sandborn '24

August 11, 2014

The Sandborn Room is home to the Music Library’s collections of rare books and scores, and is named after longtime Denton resident and former UNT music librarian Edna Mae Sandborn. The music rare book collection in the original Sandborn Room outgrew its space and now resides in a new, larger reading room which opened in April and will serve as the concert space.

David P. Wilk '90 to be Kenosha's next County Circut Judge

August 7, 2014

Attorney David P. Wilk was appointed Thursday to take over for retiring Kenosha County Circuit Judge Wilbur Warren III.
The younger Wilk will join his father, longtime Judge S. Michael Wilk, as a member of the court.

“It’s been a long process, but I feel good,” said David Wilk, who has made two prior attempts to join the judiciary here. “I’m excited, and I’m pleased.”

Musician Zachary Scot Johnson '06 returns to Wisconsin

July 31, 2014

Born in Racine, WI and a graduate of Lawrence University, Johnson is happy to return to his home state to perform this summer, but he hasn't yet gotten the chance to play at his favorite venue.

"The place I've been dying to perform ever since I walked in there was the Pabst Theater," he says. "That's my number one place that I want to play...but there are so many great places to play in Milwaukee, it's unbelievable."

Jim Scheuer '80 assumes WMEA presidency

July 30, 2014

Retired Owen-Withee band director Jim Scheuer began his two-year term as president of the Wisconsin Music Educators Association, or WMEA, a position he was elected to by the membership of the association in 2012.

After spending two years as president-elect, his presidency began at the National Association for Music Education’s, or NAfME, national leadership assembly held in the Washington, D.C., area at the end of June. WMEA is a state affiliate of NAfME. One of the most active state music associations in the nation, WMEA membership is comprised of more than 1,200 active and retired music educators committed to providing quality music education for their students.

Seth Meinel '06 to be Ripon High School's next principal

July 30, 2014

Monday evening, the Ripon Area School Board unanimously approved Seth Meinel as the new Ripon High School and Lumen Charter High School principal. Meinel graduated from Lawrence University eight years ago, and is the assistant principal of Portage High School and principal of the Portage Academy of Achievement.

O.B. Parrish '55 was CEO of Female Health Company when it received FDA approval for the female condom, now it enters mainstream culture

July 30, 2014

When it was first introduced to the American market by the Female Health Company (then called the Wisconsin Pharmacal Company) in 1993, the female condom seemed, on paper at least, like it ought to have been a hit.

Dr. Anne-Marie Feyrer-Melk '86 focuses on preventative medicine

July 23, 2014

In 2010, Feyrer-Melk opened Optimal Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention Center, a concierge practice that offers patients a plan designed to detect and prevent heart disease and stroke without the limitations of traditional health-care and insurance plans.

Chris Siebert '14 to play for USA D-III team in Brazil

July 19, 2014

The Lawrence University men’s basketball star is part of a 10-player team of NCAA Division III standouts from around the country that will travel to Brazil to play four games later this month.

Jamie Cartwright '14 to join Weidert Group as project manager

July 14, 2014

Weidert Group, Inc., an Appleton, WI-based full-service inbound marketing firm, recently announced the addition of Tim Holdsworth and Jamie Cartwright to its professional staff, to support the firm's continued growth.

Both Holdsworth and Cartwright joined the firm in June, though Cartwright, a June 2014 Lawrence University graduate, served as an intern with Weidert Group since 2012.

Agatha Christie scholar Christopher Chan '04 to give seminar

July 14, 2014

Peninsula Players Theatre hosts a pre-show seminar with Agatha Christie scholar Christopher Chan at 6:30 p.m. July 22, in conjunction with its current production of Christie’s classic whodunit “And Then There Were None.”

Mark Rohricht '88 appointed Vice President, Human Resources of Electronics Group for Crane Aerospace & Electronics

July 7, 2014

Crane Aerospace & Electronics, a segment of Crane Co. (NYSE:CR), has announced the appointment of Mark Rohricht as Vice President of Human Resources of the Electronics Group of Crane Aerospace & Electronics. In this role, Rohricht will report directly to Bob Tavares, President of Crane Electronics Group. Rohricht will be responsible for Human Resources for all of the Electronics Groups locations including Beverly, Massachusetts, Chandler, Arizona, Ft. Walton Beach, FL, Redmond, WA, West Caldwell, New Jersey and Kaohsiung, Taiwan. His primary location will be Redmond.

Katie van Es '11 serves people of Senegal, West Africa

July 5, 2014

The Peace Corps assigned Van Es to work as a preventative health educator in Senegal, West Africa. As requested by the Senegal Ministry of Health, her directives were in maternal and child health, water and sanitation, and malaria.

Gregory Opelka '78 provides music and lyrics for "The Beverly Hillbillies, The Musical"

July 3, 2014

In 1983, The New Tuners Theatre was formed, housed at what was then The Theatre Building at 1225 West Belmont. There Opelka found himself in on the ground floor of a workshop-style organization committed to mentoring talent, and making “musical love-connections” to foster later collaboration.

McNally Smith College of Music Welcomes Accomplished Trumpet Player Adam Meckler '07 to Brass and Woodwinds Faculty

June 30, 2014

Meckler holds a B.M. in Jazz Studies from Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisc., and a M.M. in Trumpet Performance from the University of Minnesota. An active educator, he also teaches at MacPhail Center for Music, maintains a trumpet studio in the Twin Cities, and leads clinics and workshops all over the country.

Emmy Award winner Garth Neustadter '10 was recently recognized with a distinguished achievement award by Lawrence University

July 25, 2014

A composer and musician, Neustadter was presented the college's Nathan M. Pusey Young Alumni Distinguished Achievement Award, which recognizes Lawrence alumni of 15 years or less for significant contributions in their career fields.

Maria DeLaundreau '13 is restoring cottonwoods to a healthy role in the Mississippi River floodplains

June 12, 2014

DeLaundreau, who finished a degree in biology and environmental studies at Wisconsin's Lawrence University last June, is a Minnesota GreenCorps participant hosted by the Mississippi River Fund.

Julia Gaines '91 to be new MU Music School director

June 11, 2014

Julia Gaines, a percussion professor at the MU School of Music, usually spends her time teaching students how to hit things. But now, she will take on a more administrative role.

The School of Music announced May 30 that Gaines will be its new director.

Tracy White '84 named new UW-Baraboo dean

June 10, 2014

“This is an exciting time to take over the leadership at UW-Baraboo/Sauk County,” White said in a statement Tuesday. “Tom Pleger set the campus on a course of growth and success. I look forward to engaging the community and the campus to meet the new opportunities we will face in the future as we seek to better serve students, our community and the state of Wisconsin.”

Daniel Hartenstein '87 Selected To Lead The Hess Collection Northeast Sales Division

June 10, 2014

Daniel Hartenstein has been chosen to lead the newly formed Northeast Sales Division for The Hess Collection winery, covering nine key states including New York and New Jersey. Hartenstein has been with The Hess Collection since 2007, most recently as the Northeast Regional Sales Manager. Notably, sales in his region, which included New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, have grown by 25 percent under his care.

Sting gives Martha McDonnell '14 a big break on 'Last Ship'

June 6, 2014

Wayne native Martha McDonnell will miss her college graduation ceremonies later this month from Lawrence University in Appleton, Wis. The reason? Sting hired her to play violin in the Chicago orchestra for his Broadway-bound musical "The Last Ship."

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