valpo mag spring2013

Strategic Plan Continues to Advance on Campus, Around Globe

Valpo World

MLK Award Recipients Schuette, Wuerffel, Singh Promote Diversity

‘A Great Gift’ Former LDA Executive Director Reflects

International Duo Broekhoff, Van Wijk Lead Crusaders to NCAAs

THE MAGAZINE OF VALPARAISO UNIVERSITY VOL. 29 NO. 3, SPRING 2013 valpo.edu/valpomag

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RefLect the cRusADeR LIGht: Homecoming and Reunion celebRation 2013SeptembeR 27-29

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VALPO FUND

THERE’S STILL TIME TO SHOW YOUR SPIRIT!

Gifts Before June 30 Matched With $100

Thanks to the generosity of Valpo alumni Leslie (Hallman ’77) and Tim Paul ’76, when you show your spirit by giving to the Valpo Fund, your gift can count for even more. If you haven’t given recently to the Valpo Fund or have never given, this is your chance to show your pride in Valparaiso University by helping us attract the highest quality students and to provide them with engagement opportunities around the globe.

We are challenging alumni, parents, and friends of Valparaiso University to simply give. Leslie and Tim will contribute $100 for each new donor to the Valpo Fund, now through June 30, 2013. Your $10 gift becomes $110; a $25 gift becomes $125; a $50 gift becomes $150; and so on. No matter what you give, your gift to support Valpo students will be multiplied.

If you are a regular donor to the Valpo Fund, your continued support is as critical as ever. Thank you and please encourage others to show their spirit!

C H A L L E N G E

Spirit of Valpo

valpo.edu/givetovu/challenge

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Feature Stories

Cover

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In This16 Caleb Kortokrax ’11 A Path Toward Discovery

18 Strategic Plan Update Advancing Valpo's Mission and Vision

22 Ruyue “Julia” Yuan Finding Her Calling

24 Moninder “Holly” Singh ’98, ’05 MALS Singh’s Valpo Experience an Agent for Open Dialogue

25 Liz Wuerffel ’00 & Allison Schuette ’93 Fostering Conversation With the Welcome Project

26 Barbara A. Young ’76 JD A Sense of Civic Duty

28 Louise Williams ’67 A Lasting Relationship

30 Emily Royer ’12 & Jake Just ’12 AmeriCorps Members

34 Greg Tonagel ’03, ’05 MA Answering the Call to Coach

36 Ryan Broekhoff & Kevin Van Wijk Journey Around the Globe

New Programs and Buildings, Enrollment Growth Highlight Early Successes of Valpo’s Strategic Plan

Sections

5 I Archives

6 I News

16 I Features

40 I AlumNotes

44 I Athletics

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A Path Toward Discovery

Valpo Caps Season With Trip to NCAA TournamentCrusaders Rally Late Before Falling to Michigan State

Valpo Experience Begins Journey of Self-Discovery for Artist Kortokrax ‘11

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AlumNotes wants your news! Please send news of weddings, births, deaths, new jobs and promotions, academic and professional degrees, church and community service activities, awards and achievements, and changes of address to: AlumNotes Editor, Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, IN 46383-6493; Email address: [email protected]; Fax: 219-464-5467. Include your email address to make it easier for classmates to contact you. Please note that AlumNotes also will be a part of VALPO’s online version on the University’s website.

It was March, and the Valparaiso

University men’s basketball team

was “dancing.” The Crusaders

were part of the madness once

again — March Madness.

All was right in the Valpo universe,

it seemed.

After a nine-year absence, including a transition into the Horizon League, the Crusaders returned to the NCAA Tournament. There was the star, senior Ryan Broekhoff, who hit the game-winning shot (in similar fashion to that of Bryce Drew in the 1998 NCAA Tournament) to lift Valpo in the Horizon League Tournament semifinals and preserve the Crusaders’ season. There was the international connection, with Broekhoff hailing from Australia and senior Kevin Van Wijk from the Netherlands. There also was that aw-shucks nature of this team — affable and approachable while dedicated to the classroom and committed to their community.Yes, the Crusaders fell to mighty Michigan State in their NCAA Tournament opener. But it was a fun ride, and it was fun to watch the players and coaches on their journey.It was Valpo at its best.In this edition of VALPO Magazine, you will read about that international connection with Broekhoff and Van Wijk, and also about one of the Crusaders’ former players, Greg Tonagel ’03, ’05 MA, who is now finding success as a coach.You will also see Valpo at its best through the eyes of artist Caleb Kortokrax ’11, now studying art and finding himself as a graduate student at the Maryland Institute College of Art’s LeRoy E. Hoffberger School of Painting. You will see Valpo at its best through Louise Williams ’67, former executive director of the Lutheran Deaconess Association.You will see Valpo at its best in the University’s Martin Luther King Jr. Award winners — Allison Schuette ’93, Elizabeth Wuerffel ’00, and Moninder “Holly” Singh ’98, ’05 MALS — as well as in Barb Young ’76 JD, who has used her Valpo law degree to impact the lives of others in her work with a local non-profit organization.And you will see how Valpo is doing its best in a discussion with President Mark A. Heckler, who shares an update on the University’s Strategic Plan. As always we want to hear from you. Tell us how you or a classmate serve an example of Valpo at its best. Email us at [email protected] or email me directly at [email protected].

Tom Wyatt ’94, ’12 MSVALPO editor

VALPO StaffTom Wyatt ’94, '12 MS VALPO Editor [email protected]

Equilla Lewis-McClain VALPO Creative Director

Scott Hendrickson ’02 Senior Director of Communications

Mel Doering ’53 Archives Editor

ContributingNicole Niemi ’96Jon Hendricks '01B+B, Inc.Kristen Knoerzer

For AlumNotes:[email protected] of Integrated Marketing and CommunicationsValparaiso University1509 Chapel Dr., Rm. LL60Valparaiso, IN 46383

For address changes:Advancement Valparaiso University1100 Campus Dr. SouthValparaiso, IN 46383-6493

OnlineRead VALPO online at valpo.edu/valpomag

Phone800-833-6792, ext. 35

[email protected]

Fax219-464-5770

University ContactsGeneral 219-464-5000 valpo.edu

Alumni Relations 800-833-6792

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Undergraduate Admission 219-464-5011

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Book Center 219-464-5421

Campus Tours 219-464-5112

Career Center 219-464-5005

Continuing Education 219-464-5313

Valparaiso University Center for the Arts Box Office and Event Information for Art, Music, Theatre 219-464-5162

Brauer Museum of Art 219-464-5365

Christopher Center for Library and Information Resources 219-464-5500

Harre Union and Conference Services 219-464-5415

VALPO is published three times a year by Valparaiso University’s Office of Integrated Marketing and Communications. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the opinions of the editors or the official policies of Valparaiso University. We welcome your comments.V

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On the cover: College of Nursing students visit a tribe in the hills of northern Thailand during their spring break trip in March.

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150 Years Ago, 1863

The Rev. B. Wilson Smith became the third president of the four-year-old Valparaiso Male and Female College. Later in his career he was instrumental in the founding of Purdue University.

125 Years Ago, 1888

“The sectioning of the classes gives to each student ample opportunity for reciting,” Valparaiso University predecessor Northern Indiana Normal School and Business Institute promised prospective students.

100 Years Ago, 1913

Advertising spring, mid-spring, summer, and mid-summer terms, Valparaiso University proclaimed, “There will be in attendance during these terms students from every State and Territory in the United States and from many foreign countries. The advantage of meeting these is an education in itself.”

75 Years Ago, 1938

Under the heading, “Reading Course,” the catalog offered: “Students of high standing who desire to take a course not listed above may do so with the consent of the faculty and the assistance of an instructor.”

50 Years Ago, 1963

Interim, a 76-page mimeographed publication of student-written short stories was intended, according to faculty adviser Robley Wilson, not to replace the Lighter but to encourage it to produce better work. (The Archives would be grateful to receive a copy.)

45 Years Ago, 1968

Seniors Patricia Lang and Mel Piehl were designated by the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation as among the best prospective future college teachers.

40 Years Ago, 1973

Applications for fall admission to the School of Law doubled the previous year's record volume. Female applicants more than tripled.

35 Years Ago, 1978

The Valpo chapter of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia was granted the Charles Lutton Memorial Province Merit Award for its accomplishments throughout the 1975-1978 triennium.

30 Years Ago, 1983

Upon learning that a defeated candidate in the recent Chicago mayoral race wanted to purchase the Sun-Times in order to fire controversial columnist Mike Royko, Torch editor Diana Montague offered him a position. He responded, “Thanks. I've been offered worse.”

25 Years Ago, 1988

“The faculty has been very cooperative and supportive. I only wish our basketball team could have been up to the high quality of the academics at VU,” said Tom Smith '67 in announcing his resignation to accept the head coaching position at Missouri Western State College.

15 Years Ago, 1998

Offices of campus radio station WVUR and the Torch were moved from the former Vale Day School building to accommodate the transfer of the Valparaiso University Police Department from the basement of Guild Hall.

10 Years Ago, 2003

A Torch editorial urged that the University work with the City of Valparaiso to establish a bus transportation system.

5 Years Ago, 2008

A record five seniors, Liz Coyne, John Dimmick, Jon Eaton, Joy Gieschen, and Jason Nisly, were awarded Fulbright fellowships.

20 Years Ago, 1993A Wednesday, May 5, gathering celebrated the anticipated construction of the Valparaiso University Center for the Arts, combining visual, theatrical, and musical arts in one facility.

From the Archives

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Andrew Nunemaker ’91 addresses graduates at the December 2012 commencement ceremony at the Chapel of the Resurrection.

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Each year the Valparaiso University Alumni Association honors members of the Valparaiso University alumni community who stand out for their excellence in service and personal achievement.

Joel Bussert ’67 received the Distinguished Alumni Award, the highest distinction the Alumni Association bestows. The recipients of the Alumni Achievement Award include Robert K. Dixon ’59, Andrew Herrmann ’73, and Jeff Raday ’78. The Outstanding Young Alumni Award went to Ginger “Zee” Zuidgeest ’02. The Alumni Service Award was presented to Rhoda (Schur ’86) Decatur and Paul Jud ’86. The Partners in Service Award honored Edward Tornberg ’55 and Hildred (Hirt ’59) Tornberg. Ernest Johnson ’60 received the

Alumni Community Service Award, while the O.P. Kretzmann Award honored University employees John Berthal ’70 and James Kingsland ’82 JD.

The Alumni Association also offered honorary alumni membership to two Valparaiso University faculty. The first recipient was Raymond Clark, a graduate of Purdue University and a Valparaiso University adjunct professor in the College of Engineering. Jerry Wagenblast also received honorary alumni membership. Wagenblast graduated from Illinois Institute of Technology and teaches mathematics and computer science at Valpo and he serves as director at the Valpo Study Center in Cambridge, England.

Valpo Honors Alumni Award Recipients

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Nunemaker Speaks at December Commencement CeremonyThe 2012 fall commencement ceremony took place on Dec. 9 in the Chapel of the Resurrection. Following Sunday morning worship, the conferring of degrees for more than 170 graduates featured speaker Andrew N. Nunemaker ’91. Nunemaker, who received his degree from Valpo in electrical engineering, is the CEO for Dynamis Software Corporation, which provides optimization tools for insurance brokers.

The ceremony also recognized two honorary degree recipients, Judge Kenneth Ripple, Doctor of Laws, and Lynn Steen, Doctor of Science.

Zachary R. Calo, associate professor of law, was awarded the Michael and Dianne Swygert Research Fellowship, while

Seymour H. Moskowitz, professor of law, was awarded the Michael and Dianne Swygert Teaching Fellowship. Craig M. Goehler, assistant professor of mechanical engineering, was named the Frederick F. Jenny Professor of Emerging Technology, and Timothy Tomasik, associate professor of French, was named the Richard P. Baepler Distinguished Professor in the Humanities. Linda C. Ferguson, professor of music, was honored for receiving the Caterpillar Award for Excellence in Teaching, and John Ruff, associate professor of English and director of the Valpo Core, received the Valparaiso University Alumni Association Distinguished Teaching Award.

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Construction continues on the Duesenberg Welcome Center, scheduled to be open by June 2013. Ground was broken for the 15,000-square-foot building campus gateway on April 28, 2012. The building is located near the south entrance of campus along U.S. 30. The Welcome Center will create a front door for the

University by supporting the needs of prospective students, alumni, and guests. The building was supported by a $5 million gift from Phyllis (Buehner ’54) and Richard Duesenberg (’51, ’53 JD). A dedication is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, during Homecoming and Reunion Celebration weekend.

A dedication also is scheduled for the James S. Markiewicz Solar Energy Research Facility at 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27, during Homecoming and Reunion Celebration weekend. The 2,000-square-foot research facility, adjacent to the Gellersen Center, is the only solar furnace located at a U.S. undergraduate institution. Since 2000, students have been working on the design and building process. More than 40 past and present students have helped in the building of the solar research facility.

Welcome Center, Solar Facility to be Dedicated

The James S. Markiewicz Solar Energy Research Facility will be dedicated during Homecoming and Reunion Celebration weekend.

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Eboo Patel, founder, president, and CEO of the Interfaith Youth Core, served as the featured speaker at the convocation on Jan. 21 during Valparaiso University’s 24th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. Patel discussed the similarities between the visions of Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi, as well as King’s impact as an interfaith leader.

Patel spoke of the inspiration King exuded not only as a great American intellectual and leader, but also as a great interfaith leader, pointing out that King viewed faith not as a “bubble of isolation” but as a bridge.

King’s views of faith as a bridge tied directly to Valpo’s theme for this year’s MLK Celebration of Building Bridges: Dream. Dialogue. Service. King, as a Christian man who was strong in faith and conviction, drew inspiration from the message of Gandhi, who, as Patel pointed out, was also strong in faith and conviction as a devout Hindu.

Valparaiso University President Mark A. Heckler also pointed out the connection between the work of King and Gandhi, saying, “because Dr. King was open to the message of someone of a faith different from his own, his own understanding of how to affect change peacefully was broadened.”

Allison Schuette, Liz Wuerffel, and Moninder “Holly” Singh were named MLK award recipients for their work cultivating a diverse and inclusive Valparaiso University community. Schuette and Wuerffel were recognized for their work on the Welcome Project, a collection of stories from the Valpo community that address the complexity of relationships and how we can develop them to be more inclusive. Singh was honored for his work internationalizing the University and establishing the Summer Global Leadership Institute, which brings prospective international high school students to campus to immerse them in the University culture.

To close MLK Day festivities at Valpo, Jamil Khoury, founding artistic director of Chicago-based theatre company Silk Road Rising, spoke about finding the intersections of culture and what happens when we react with fear rather than compassion. See more on Pages 24 and 25.

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LEARN MORE at valpo.edu/mlk

Eboo Patel, founder, president, and CEO of the Interfaith Youth Core, speaks during the 2013 MLK Celebration convocation.

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it is one of the greatest opportunities you could ever have. Simply escaping the routine life that we so easily slip into will expand your mind and your heart as you see the ways a different culture lives, has lived, and will continue to live on.

“Since freshman year I have definitely changed, matured, and learned a lot, but I still embrace this chance to go out into the world and share my gift of music as we, the Chorale, do so excellently.”

The Chorale traveled with the Leipzig Baroque Orchestra to Meißen, Köthen, and Leipzig for intimate performances in addition to services at the historic St. Thomas Church. The climax of the trip was performing a Bach cantata at one of the opening services at Bachfest, marking the 800th anniversary of the St. Thomas Church and its choir, the Thomanerchor.

In addition to the performance schedule, the Chorale was able to carve out some time to visit one of the 2010 tour stops. Two years ago, the Chorale was invited to the town of Mark Zwuschen to participate in a ceremony celebrating the beginning stages of a small one-room church. This church was the first construction of a building of worship in East Germany since the Iron Curtain came down at the end of the Cold War, in 1991.

During this year’s tour, the Chorale was welcomed back to the small town to see the progress of the church’s construction and share in worship together. The music ministry that took shape in the form of interactions between the hosts and students in Mark Zwuschen had a lasting impact on the performers.

The group sang outside because the walls of this small sacred place could hold so few. A large crowd of locals arrived by car, bike, and foot through the fields to hear the Chorale sing. After the service, enjoyment of food, music, and conversation with local members continued for hours.

“After the little service and lovely dinner outside with everyone, some of the women of Wittenberg [a nearby town] came over and wanted to sing some hymns that they knew with a few of us,” senior Claire Mueller said. “Before I knew it, we were singing ‘Amazing Grace,’ and then somehow succeeding, through what I can only describe as ‘Germglish,’ in having a great conversation.

“One woman, Katie, told me she felt like her choir was her family, and I couldn’t agree more with the sentiment. Emails were exchanged between a few of us and I really hope we can stay in touch.”

“That performance was an adrenaline rush!” – Nathaniel Walters

(continued on page 28)

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Jill (Dierberg ’06) Clark recently began her work at Valparaiso University as associate director of alumni relations. She graduated from Valpo with a degree in theology and has since achieved a master’s degree in theological studies and a PhD in religion and social change.

“When I graduated from Valparaiso in 2006,” Clark said, “I always had a feeling I would be back here serving in some capacity. It is an honor to be in this position.”

In her new role, Clark’s primary goal will be engaging young alumni, working locally with Valpo Clubs to do so. She would like to start several new Valpo Clubs, or local alumni chapters, and see young alumni involved in them, even serving as chairs or co-chairs. Clark also hopes to expand the young alumni reach through social media.

“The Office of Alumni Relations has launched a Valparaiso University alumni Facebook page,” Clark said, “which allows alumni who prefer to communicate through social media to stay abreast of alumni news, local, and national events, and things that are happening on campus.”

During her undergraduate studies, Clark was involved in Gamma Phi Beta and was a member of SALT. Additionally, she was a

member of the Crusaders women’s tennis team, making her ideally suited as the chief Office of Alumni Relations contact for athletics. She also worked as an orientation assistant for FOCUS, the new-student orientation.

“I could never have accomplished all of these things at a larger school,” Clark said of her vast undergraduate involvement. “I was able to serve as an OA and the president of my sorority, as well as study abroad, while still competing at the collegiate level. Valpo was invaluable to my subsequent work and accomplishments, and for that, I am very grateful.”

Clark Returns to Valpo in Alumni Relations Role

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The Bach Institute at Valparaiso University presented Johann Sebastian Bach’s beloved “Mass in B Minor” on March 23 at the Chapel of the Resurrection. The performance featured the Valparaiso University Chorale and Bach Choir.

“The monumental ‘Mass in B Minor’ is J.S. Bach’s universal statement of faith,” said Christopher Cock, director of the Bach Institute and conductor of the Bach Choir. “Compiled by Bach in the final years of his life, the Mass offers the listener a reflective journey of life and death, faith and love.”

Bach’s work remains an important part of the educational and cultural experience at Valparaiso University. The performance also honored the Lutheran character of the University, as Bach’s compositions have been featured in Lutheran church services for hundreds of years. Visit valpo.edu/bach for more information.

Bach Institute Presents ‘Mass in B Minor’

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Valparaiso University announced several changes within its senior leadership team during the past months.

Peter Kanelos has been appointed dean of Christ College — The Honors College. Kanelos succeeds Mel Piehl ’67, who announced last fall that he was stepping down after serving as Christ College dean since 2003.

Kanelos comes to Valpo from Loyola University Chicago, where he chaired several committees in addition to

serving as a core faculty member of the honors program, an associate professor in the Department of Fine and Performing Arts, and the founding director of the Interdisciplinary Shakespeare Studies Program.

Eric Johnson ’87 was named dean of the College of Engineering. Johnson had served as acting dean of the College of Engineering since July 1, 2012, and he has been on Valpo’s faculty since 1997 as professor of electrical and computer engineering, serving as chair of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering from 2008 to 2012.

Johnson was the director of the University’s study abroad center in Reutlingen, Germany, from 2004 to 2007; has been named the Brandt Professor of Engineering; and was awarded the Valparaiso University Alumni Association Distinguished Teaching Award in 2003.

Ivan Bodensteiner has been named acting dean of the Law School, succeeding Jay Conison, who resigned as dean in April to assume a new position as dean of Charlotte School of Law. Bodensteiner joined the faculty of Valparaiso University in 1972 and served as dean of the Law School from 1985 to 1990. He also served a one-year term as acting dean from 1997 to 1998. A national search is under way for a new dean.

David Rowland, associate provost and dean of the Graduate School and Continuing Education, has assumed a leadership role within the newly constituted Office for Institutional Innovation. As the University conducts a national search for his replacement, Rowland will continue to serve as dean.

Charley Gillispie, senior vice president for finance and administration, announced his retirement from his position effective June 30. Gillispie has served the University since 1996. During his tenure, he and his team achieved 15 years of balanced budgets and clean audit opinions despite facing the extraordinary economic downturns of the 2001 “dot-com” crash and 2008 housing bubble.

Gillispie oversaw significant consolidations in operations and tirelessly facilitated the work of four Board of Directors committees. He has contributed to the campus in countless ways, but perhaps most importantly he has encouraged and mentored first-generation college students and through his support for increased diversity in the campus population, both students and staff.

Matt Delnick has been chosen to succeed Gillispie as senior vice president for finance and administration. Delnick is responsible for the University’s financial strategy and prudent oversight. He has held senior-level finance positions and has an extensive background in several industries. He has served as chief financial officer and, most recently, chief executive officer of

Greenstar Recycling in Houston.

Gillispie will support President Mark Heckler on a part-time basis during the 2013-14 year to assist with Delnick’s transition and advise the president on several projects related to the Strategic Plan.

Susan Scroggins ’04 MBA was appointed vice president of administration and will provide leadership and support to the University’s departments of Facilities Management, Human Resources, Procurement Services, University Police, and Safety. Scroggins has been a contributing member of the Valparaiso University community since 1996.

University Announces Senior Leadership Changes

Peter Kanelos

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Susan Scroggins ‘04 MBA

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In March, Valparaiso University hosted “On Tolkien and His Works,” a scholarly conference celebrating the works of J.R.R. Tolkien and the 75th anniversary of Tolkien’s “The Hobbit.” The weekend-long event was highlighted by a 25th anniversary performance of Symphony #1 “The Lord of the Rings” by Johan de Meij, with the composer in attendance and conducting.

“With so many significant Tolkien milestones, this is the most opportune time to bring together some of the most esteemed Tolkien scholars from across the world,” said Brad Eden, dean of Library Services, host of the conference, and editor of “Middle-earth Minstrel: Essays on music in Tolkien.”

The conference also included an exhibit in the Brauer Museum of Art on campus, featuring rare and unusual Tolkien memorabilia from Eden’s extensive collection, including several signed letters and books. Panel discussion topics included: “Bromancing Tolkien,” “The Hobbit,” and “Topics in Tolkien’s Works.” Many other special events, including a song cycle performance and themed Saturday evening dinner, were planned for the weekend.

Valpo Hosts Celebration of Tolkien and the 75th Anniversary of ‘The Hobbit’

Johan de Meij gives a preconcert talk before conducting his Symphony #1: “The Lord of the Rings.”

Refer a Student to Valparaiso University

Do you know a high school student who might be a perfect fit for Valparaiso University? Here’s your chance to help him or her begin a journey at Valpo. Visit valpo.edu/admission/refer and tell us about this prospective student.

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Chapel Makes List of Most Beautiful Collegiate Chapels in World

Valparaiso University recently was honored by Best College Reviews when the Chapel of the Resurrection was named one of the most beautiful collegiate chapels in the world. The Chapel was ranked 27th among other famous chapels around the globe.

“The Chapel of the Resurrection in Valparaiso, Indiana, is considered the biggest university-oriented cathedral in the U.S. and the second largest university cathedral in the world,” says Best College Review. The review is accompanied by a photo showing the Munderloh stained windows glass surrounding the nave.

The Chapel of the Resurrection has served as the focal point for more than 50 years since its dedication in 1959. President Mark Heckler noted that the Chapel of the Resurrection stands “as the centerpiece of campus and the heart of worship, service, leadership, and reconciliation for the campus community.”

As a central location for campus ministries, the Chapel hosts eight weekly church services, including Sunday morning service, Sunday evening candlelight service, a mid-week praise service, and a daily morning prayer. The Chapel also sponsors SALT, the Social Action Leadership Team, and has welcomed many speakers and musical performances.

“For me, the Chapel is more than a beautiful building,” said Jenni Sechrist, chair of SALT. “It is a community of people coming together for a common purpose.”

For the full list by the Best College Review

VISIT www.bestcollegereviews.org/features/

the-30-most-beautiful-college-cathedrals/

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Stephanie Jass ’92 set a record as the only woman to record seven straight victories on the popular syndicated game show “Jeopardy!” in the fall of 2012. In early 2013, she again appeared on the show as part of the Tournament of Champions, falling in the semifinal round to eventual champion Colby Burnett.

Her competitive spirit earned high praise from host Alex Trebek.

“One of the bonuses is that I get to spend time with contestants and champions like Stephanie who take such obvious delight in winning,” Trebek said on the show. “I like that.”

Initially hesitant, Jass was convinced to audition for the show by her husband, who noticed that she consistently knew the correct answers while watching the show at home. Jass was a member of the scholastic quiz bowl team in high school, and she has a knack for recalling seemingly trivial information.

Not only has Jass set a record as the top female contestant, but she also ranks in the top 10 of “Jeopardy!” champions who have won seven or more games. Her fall winnings totaled $147,570, putting her among the top 15 winners in the history of the show.

“It was exciting, crazy, draining, and surreal all at once,” Jass said. “In some ways, it's only now sinking in what it means. It was an amazing, life-changing experience that has opened a lot of

interesting doors for me, and I'm still deciding which ones to go through.”

Jass earned her Bachelor of Arts in history from Valpo and obtained her PhD from Western Michigan University, where she earned the history department’s Outstanding Graduate Research Award. She currently serves as assistant professor of history at Adrian College in Michigan.

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The Alumni and Friends Outing at the Jay Christopher ’67 Christopher Farm and Gardens in Sheboygan, Wis., is set for 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 27.

Take advantage of this special opportunity to catch up with Valpo friends and relive stories from years past. There will be plenty of entertainment for all ages, with food and beverages provided.

The Christopher Farm consists of nearly 400 acres with more than 6,000 feet of shoreline on Lake Michigan. There are 20 acres of native woodland and natural prairies with extensive flower gardens, vegetable gardens, fruit orchards, walking paths, and stocked fishing ponds.

There is also an alumni dinner Saturday night at the Blue Harbor Inn, where a block of rooms has been reserved for Valpo alumni who wish to make this a weekend event.

Mark Your Calendars for Christopher Alumni Event

Frankenmuth Valpo Family Weekend Set for July 19-20

FOR MORE INFO OR TO REGISTERvisit www.valpo.edu/alumni/events/christopherfarm.php or contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 219.464.5142. Please remember that you must register to attend and space is limited.

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Valparaiso University co-sponsored and hosted “A Round Table Conference on Brad Gregory’s ‘The Unintended Reformation’” on Sept. 15. The Notre Dame historian’s work prompted debate over the causes in division over secularism, morality, government, economic life, and academic knowledge. The conference featured presentations by John Hare, Noah Porter Professor of Philosophical Theology at Yale University; Susan Schreiner, Professor of the History of Christianity and Theology at the University of Chicago; and Francis Oakley, former president of Williams College and current Edward Dorr Griffin Professor of the History of Idea, Emeritus, at Williams College.

The attendees included the author and historian himself, Brad Gregory, as well as other scholarly theologians, historians, and psychologists. Throughout the event, speakers fueled discussion on some of the most heated issues in modern American life. Sharp debates addressed issues particularly relevant in the politically heated world of today.

Gregory’s book and the Sept. 15 Reformation summit represented the opening foray of the five-year countdown to the 500th anniversary of the Reformation in 2017.

To read an editorial on the Reformation by Ron Rittgers, professor of history and theology and Erich Markel Chair in German Reformation Studies at Valparaiso University, visit www.huffingtonpost.com/ron-rittgers-phd/

Valpo Co-hosts Conference on Controversial Reformation Book

Celebrate Valpo athletics at the 16th annual Frankenmuth Valpo Family Weekend on July 19 and 20 at Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth in Frankenmuth, Mich. Make your plans to attend and take advantage of this opportunity to reconnect with alumni and friends from Valparaiso University, as well as socialize with Valpo coaches and fans.

Friday, July 19, activities include a hors d’oeuvre and dessert reception. On Saturday, July 20, connect with your friends and bring a foursome to enjoy a round of golf at The Fortress Golf

Course (shotgun start, and there will be prizes), followed by an auction and dinner. There are many activities for children to enjoy, such as a waterpark associated with Zehnder’s Hotel.

For more information or to register, visit www.valpo.edu/alumni/events/frankenmuth13.php or contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 219-464-5142.

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“If spirituality is a big part of my life, I should let that flow in my work.” – Caleb Kortokrax ‘11

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Valpo Experience Begins Journey of Self-Discovery for Artist KortokraxBy Tom Wyatt ’94, ’12 MS

When Caleb Kortokrax ’11 transferred to Valparaiso University during his junior year, he had anticipated majoring in art history. But a conversation with Bob Sirko, chair of the Department of Art, changed Kortokrax’s plans.

“I was telling him that I would also like to take painting and drawing classes,” Kortokrax recalled. “He was like, ‘Why would you want to study the history of art when you can make art? If you can make art, you should study art.’ ”

It was an option Kortokrax had not seriously considered. But it was a path he ultimately chose, later adding education as a second major.

While Kortokrax came to Valpo for a particular area of study, one from which he ultimately deviated, he instead began a journey. It was a journey of self-discovery that has continued at the Maryland Institute College of Art’s LeRoy E. Hoffberger School of Painting, where Kortokrax is pursuing a Master of Fine Arts.

“A few things carried over really well from Valpo to here,” said Kortokrax, who is in his second semester at Hoffberger and lives in Baltimore with his wife, Katie (Shaw ’11 MEd) Kortokrax. “One of the most obvious is the focus on critical thinking. That was kind of the thesis for my education at Valpo — teaching me how to be a

critical thinker. That prepared me in a really great way for the level of conversations I’m having now [in the MFA program].”

Many of those conversations center on the purpose of his painting. Much of Kortokrax’s work focuses on portrait painting, capturing intimate perceptions of the subject. And there is a spiritual bent to his work, including a self-portrait as the Prodigal Son.

But what is the ultimate goal of his work and who is the central audience are two questions with which Kortokrax grapples.

“More recently in conversation, I’ve realized that I have this tendency within myself to try to suppress any kind of overt spiritual reading of the work I’ve been making, to make it more acceptable or something,” Kortokrax said. “I’ve actually gotten a lot of feedback from everyone in the program that I shouldn’t be doing that; that I should allow myself to be very honest with my work.

“If spirituality is a big part of my life, I should let that flow in my work. I’m becoming more comfortable with that reality.”

Kortokrax also is still trying to determine who might be most inclined to view his work.

“I guess I’ve been grappling in my mind with two different routes,” Kortokrax said. “One is the route of making art that you could use in the context of the church or worship spaces, or making art for gallery viewing. Trying to figure that out has been a bit of a challenge.”

Now Kortokrax focuses on making his art relevant for 2013.

“How do you do that today in a way that is not corny and a way that is genuine and honest to our time period?” Kortokrax said. “How can I make a painting about a Bible story and make it new and fresh? How do you take on the weight of 2,000 years of great Christian art and say something new?”

The notion of making art rooted in Christianity was greatly influenced by Kortokrax’s Valpo experience with the Chapel of the Resurrection. He grew up in a non-denominational Christian church in Lowell, Ind., where his father was the pastor. Already boasting a strong faith base, Kortokrax discovered the beauty of church at Valpo.

“For me, going to Morning Prayer and going to some of the Lutheran worship services was such an eye opener for me as someone who is attracted to beauty and making something more out of a precious experience,” Kortokrax said. “That opened me up to a whole new sort of conversation, probably because of the artist inside of me.”

And then there came a trip to Spain, led by Nina Corazzo, associate professor of art history.

“The majority of the trip we were going through cathedrals and gorgeous worship spaces,” Kortokrax said. “When you walk in you feel like you’re physically transformed or lifted into a higher reality. You feel heaven on earth for a moment, if that’s possible.

“That’s something that Valpo opened me up to, realizing that these short experiences were pretty profound in a way.” n

Self-Portrait as Prodigal Son

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In October of 2010, Valparaiso University

unveiled its Strategic Plan, Our Common

Pursuit: Valpo’s Call to Lead and Serve for

the Next Generation. The ambitious plan

set the University’s priorities for the next

20 years, while maintaining a constant

five-year horizon to allow for continual

evaluation and plan updates. The Strategic

Plan serves as a road map to guide the

University through ongoing fulfillment of

its Mission and Vision.

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Global Connections, New Programs and Buildings, Enrollment Growth Highlight Early Success of Strategic Plan

MovingForward

Mark A. Heckler, PhD President

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VALPO: It has been more than two years since Valparaiso University’s Strategic Plan, Our Common Pursuit, was unveiled. What are the hallmarks of success with the progress made to date in implementing the plan?

Heckler: We really hit the ground running. We enhanced our academic programs in order to educate and prepare students who will lead and serve throughout the world. Recently launched majors will complement the rigorous and intellectually challenging education we continue to offer. Our emphasis on science and writing skills have led to the development of new initiatives so that all students, regardless of their major, will graduate as critical thinkers and exceptional communicators. We grew our student body with the largest incoming class in more than 30 years this past fall. And our growing international and increasingly diverse student body has flourished as a community that prepares all of our graduates to excel as globally minded and cross-culturally savvy citizens.

New capital building projects dot our landscape and reflect our commitment to stewarding God’s precious resources with each structure designed to LEED Silver Certification standards. However, at Valpo, we almost immediately exceed our standards for excellence once we set them. Just this spring, we were awarded the LEED Platinum Certification for the Donald V. Fites Center for Innovation, making it the only engineering educational facility in Indiana and one of three in the United States.

On the administrative side, we streamlined and optimized our infrastructure by integrating marketing and communications across the University. We also revitalized our office for advancement and alumni relations. Both teams will better serve our alumni, students, parents, and community members. And, during this tumultuous economic time, we have worked diligently to keep Valpo affordable for our families while stabilizing our budget and aligning our resources and energies to our goals.

In short, the Strategic Plan has sharpened our focus on our mission while affording us the flexibility to seek and seize opportunities that advance the University. The progress has been extraordinary, and it is only the beginning.

VALPO: Considering that the plan is a living document, what are the major changes to the plan since its unveiling?

Heckler: We’ve developed a clearer commitment to innovation. In order to maintain our competitive edge, it is critical that we unleash the entrepreneurial spirit of our professors to create an even more exceptional learning experience for our students. As a teaching institution, centered on a core liberal arts education working in tandem with our professional colleges, our increasing emphasis on excellence in teaching will continue to enhance the student experience.

We continue to evolve our educational offerings in context of marketplace demands. We’ve made adjustments to our emerging academic strategies in writing; STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics); business; nursing and health professions; and graduate programs. Our focused and integrated approach to marketing and communications has led to greater emphasis on reputation building within specific geographic areas. This also includes our expansion to the Chicago market with the launch of graduate programs in Hyde Park. There’s much more to be done. I will continue to challenge our academic leaders to think of new ways to offer our exceptional education programs to more audiences without compromising the value and values of our institution.

VALPO: Why is enrollment growth a key initiative within the Strategic Plan?

Heckler: Enrollment growth is one of our top strategies for controlling costs and maintaining affordability for future generations of Valpo students. We currently maintain the physical plant and portfolio of academic programs found at much larger institutions. For example, we recently conducted a classroom utilization study which indicated that we would need to add few classrooms in order to accommodate our planned growth to 6,000 students, just by offering more classes spread across all the available teaching periods. Similarly, we are currently maintaining the infrastructure to support separate colleges of liberal arts and sciences, business, engineering, nursing and health professions, a stand-alone honors college, and a law school. Let’s also remember the facilities, staff and support dedicated to our 19 NCAA Division I athletic teams. In order to exert downward pressure on tuition, thereby keeping Valpo affordable and accessible for future generations of college students, we need to optimize our investment in campus infrastructure, academic programs, and services. A careful


The Valparaiso University motto is shown on the The Christian Scholar and Cornerstone Mosaic. (continued on page 19)

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study conducted as part of the strategic planning process in 2009-2010 determined that 6,000 students was the optimal size for our current infrastructure. That’s how enrollment growth emerged as a key component of the Strategic Plan. It is also important to note that as we grow, we will continue to maintain our exceptional academic standards and the high quality of the students we admit to our programs.

VALPO: This academic year the University welcomed its largest incoming class since 1983. To what do you attribute the ongoing growth?

Heckler: We have invested in personnel in two key areas: admission and marketing. As a result, today we have talented teams of sufficient size in these two areas to generate and manage the largest applicant pools in the University’s history. For example, nearly 8,000 students will apply to Valpo for the entering Fall 2013 class. Just five years ago, student applications hovered around 3,800. Those applications are the result of a comprehensive, multi-year marketing and communications effort, personalized recruitment by our admissions counselors, an effective campus visit program, and support from alumni in the Valpo Admissions Network. Finally, and of considerable importance, is the extraordinary effort expended by many Valpo faculty and staff across campus to ensure that prospective families are treated well. Guests are greeted with warm and genuine hospitality, and students and parents have the opportunity to talk firsthand with faculty who will teach and mentor them. The entire campus understands that student recruitment, retention, and graduation is our top priority and that everyone needs to keep this in mind when interacting with students and families. And,

quite honestly, given the pervasive participation among faculty, staff, and students in crafting and maintaining our Strategic Plan, it doesn’t take much persuasion to keep everyone focused and on task. We all want Valpo to achieve its vision, and everyone is doing her or his part to make this vision become reality.

VALPO: The internationalization of the campus not only includes an increase in international student enrollment but also includes cross-cultural experiences for all students. Why is this so important to the student experience?

Heckler: Many if not most of today’s graduates will be working all over the world. Even those who physically locate in the United States will

find themselves interacting regularly with people from other nations as employees, supervisors, clients, customers, patients, and team members. As we seek to prepare successful graduates, it is increasingly important for us to provide cross-cultural living and learning opportunities, so every Valpo grad is comfortable and competent in effectively working alongside people with fundamentally different experiences, worldviews, and beliefs. We imagine accomplishing this objective in several ways: through traditional semester- or year-long study abroad programs, through short-term study abroad or international service-learning experiences, through increased international student recruitment for our Indiana residential campus, and through partnerships with other universities around the globe that will allow for greater freedom of movement between campuses for Valpo students and faculty.

VALPO: The University has placed an emphasis on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). How will this impact the educational experience and propel the University forward?

Heckler: So much of the world’s future economy will be driven by scientific discovery and technological advancements, that we find it important to graduate students who have mastered the STEM disciplines to a sufficient level that they will be able to understand the implications of advances in these fields and seize the opportunities presented by them. Similarly, an increasing number of employment opportunities will likely emerge in sectors related to the STEM fields, so we need to provide the learning environment and campus infrastructure to support the anticipated increased demand. We have generations of Valpo alumni who have gone on to make valuable

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“The greatest strength we have as an institution is found in our people.”

— President Mark A. Heckler

contributions in advancements and research. We’re preparing for the next generation of graduates who will continue this legacy.

VALPO: How has the University continued to live out its Lutheran character, and how is that important to the future of Valpo?

Heckler: Valpo’s ability to bring people of diverse backgrounds and beliefs together, to foster dialogue, and to engage in a common pursuit of truth is something that arises from our core competency as an independent Lutheran university and positions us for distinctiveness in the future. As members of the Lutheran community of learning, we understand ourselves to be freed by the Christian gospel — God’s precious gift through Jesus Christ — and not by our own success. With this confidence, we are free to fearlessly pursue truth. And it is our Lutheran tradition of freedom and faith that allows us to integrate dimensions of life and identity that are often viewed as separate: the spiritual self and the professional self.

Guided by our Strategic Plan, we revitalized and diversified Chapel worship experiences. We preserved time for Morning Prayer and placed it at a point in the day that no longer conflicts with lunchtime as part of a new class schedule beginning next fall. In response, the Faculty Senate and Student Senate have passed resolutions indicating that meetings shall not be scheduled during Chapel break so that students, faculty, and staff may participate. We also extended our Campus Ministries office to include the new Institute for Leadership and Service. This is because of our belief that if students are to fully explore their life’s calling (or vocation), they must consider “the why” and not just “the how” of their work. Launching the new Institute along with centralizing Valpo’s service-learning ventures through Campus Ministries grounds these transformational experiences in the Chapel, reinforcing its position as the very heart of our campus.

Throughout the years, Valpo has played a significant role in preparing graduates for seminary as well as supporting liturgical studies and church musicians. In the future, we seek an even greater role in creating liturgical music and art for American Lutheranism and global Christianity and fostering inter-religious dialogue as we model for our students how to navigate what may well be irreconcilable differences in belief.

VALPO: Alumni are the lifeblood for the University. How does the Strategic Plan work to strengthen engagement with alumni and friends of Valpo?

Heckler: The greatest strength we have as an institution is found in our people. We know that Valpo is a gift from our ancestors and it is on loan to us and to our descendants. That’s why we are so grateful to our alumni and the friends who support, sustain and strengthen the mission of the University through their prayers and gifts of time, talent, and treasure.

Recently, we looked critically at our alumni relations efforts. We infused it with new leadership, increased communication (especially through electronic and social media channels), deepened relationships through local alumni clubs, and designed new regional events for engagement. Knowing how essential it is to build strong relationships with all of our alumni, we initiated strategies to engage young alumni. And we’ve been delighted to see a renewed energy by our alumni and friends by their support through the Spirit of Valpo Challenge.

I know that this seems like a great deal of change for alumni relations, given the relatively short period of time. But we are just warming up. I encourage alumni to keep their antennae up — there’s a lot more on the horizon, and it’s going to be fun! n

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Recent University Building Projects and Enhancements2011 – Heritage Hall renovation

2011 – Donald V. Fites Engineering Innovation Center construction

2012 – Meier Hall renovation for the Department of Education

2012 – Arts and Sciences Building construction

2013 – Duesenberg Welcome Center construction

2013 – James S. Markiewicz Solar Energy Research Facility construction

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Inspired by her Father’s Stories, Yuan Travels from China to Valpo to Discover VocationBy Kristen Knoerzer

Finding Her Calling

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Ruyue “Julia” Yuan

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Growing up in Hangzhou, China, many children enjoy listening to legends of West Lake, a place where the White Snake, a spirit whose attempt at becoming a goddess failed, has been trapped between mortal and divine realms for more than 1,000 years.For Ruyue “Julia” Yuan, a somewhat different tale resonates. Looking back to her childhood in Hangzhou, Yuan remembers her father’s stories of his own life adventures, and one experience in particular has played a large part in shaping his daughter’s path — his time spent at Valparaiso University.

Yuan’s father was a visiting scholar at Valpo in the early 1990s, and his experience was so profound that he encouraged his daughter to study hard so that she, too, could one day come to Valpo. Now a Christ College student majoring in math with minors in engineering and applied statistics, Yuan has found Valpo to be a truly extraordinary place.

“I just love Valparaiso University,” Yuan said. “You have so many people who care about you.”

Yuan was looking for a school that would challenge her intellectually while

providing the support she needs to thrive. And in Christ College — The

Honors College, Yuan has found an environment that stimulates

learning, with professors who challenge her to grow academically and are there to encourage her and give her confidence along the way.

“I really enjoy studying in Christ College,” Yuan said. “Besides my interest in humanities, I just really love

the way that they challenge you. That’s the thing I

really love, and that’s the way I can improve.”

Aside from challenging and stimulating academics, one of Yuan’s favorite things about being at Valpo is the close-knit community, which enables her to develop meaningful relationships with other students and with her professors.

Yuan's face lights up with excitement when she talks about community at Valpo. “I love talking to other people, and I love to let people know me,” Yuan said. “I really love the relationships you can build with your professors — that’s what really fascinates me about Valpo.”

Yuan came to Valpo to study engineering, but she quickly discovered that her true passion lies in mathematics. Having changed her major, Yuan is thrilled to be a teaching assistant and a tutor in the math department. She finds great reward in sharing this enthusiasm with others to broaden their own understanding of math.

“I just love the feeling when you let someone understand something,” Yuan said. “I really love helping people, and since I understand math I just really want to pass on that special way of understanding math.”

Valpo’s commitment to the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics — commonly referred to as “STEM” fields — provides opportunities for students like

Yuan to pursue a career in these highly competitive areas, knowing that they are well-equipped for success. And as a student in Christ College, with its curriculum grounded in the humanities, Yuan is obtaining a well-rounded education that will prepare her for life after graduation.

Many children grow up hearing stories from their parents and dream of one day making these dreams become a reality. For Yuan, her father’s tales of Valparaiso University inspired her to travel around the globe to pursue her education and prepare for her career. And just as her father had told her growing up, Yuan has found Valpo to be a truly special place — a place where she has found her calling, and a place where she now shares that joy, that enthusiasm with others as they discover their own vocations. n

“I really love the relationships you can build with your professors —that’s what really fascinates me about Valpo.”

– Ruyue “Julia” Yuan

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By Tom Wyatt ‘94, ‘12 MS

When Moninder “Holly” Singh ’98, ’05 MALS speaks to an international student about life in the United States or life on the Valparaiso University campus, Singh speaks from personal experience.

The director of international students and scholars at Valparaiso University, Singh came to the United States more than 20 years ago from New Delhi, India, to attend Valparaiso University as an undergraduate student. Heavily involved in issues centered on diversity as a student, he earned his undergraduate degree from Valpo and later obtained a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies while working in the University’s international students office.

“Valpo, I should say, is my first home now,” Singh said. “Half of my life was in New Delhi, India, and half has now been here at Valpo. I always tell people that I was born and brought up in New Delhi, but I matured at Valparaiso.

“Given the fact that I was a student here and started working for the University, it has really let me see what this University has to offer. There’s not just one aspect. There are so many facets of your life at Valparaiso.”

For his role in the internationalization of Valparaiso University and for fostering an inclusive campus community, Singh has been honored as a 2013 recipient of the Martin Luther King Jr. Award.

“People from all walks of life come to this place and make this their home,” Singh said. “I see diversity in that right there. I don’t see diversity in colors and in religions. To be recognized for

making a difference in this community, from my perspective, is the highest achievement. And I am humbled by this award.”

Singh was integral in the development of the Summer Global Leadership Institute at Valpo, a three-week program for prospective international high school students that immerses participants in the American higher education system and the overall university culture.

“Given my experience at the University, I felt there was a need to start this education for international students at an earlier age, before college, so they can make the right choices,” Singh said. “The American education system is the best that the world has to offer; there is no doubt in my mind about that. But what school to choose? It’s a very difficult choice.

“So for us to bring in ninth-, 10th-, 11th- and 12th-graders from around the world to our campus and give them a three-week program on global leadership helps students to see the perspectives we bring and the openness we bring and the different dialogues we have.” n

Singh’s Valpo Experience an Agent for Open Dialogue

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By Tom Wyatt ’94, ’12 MS

Ask Liz Wuerffel ’00 and Allison Schuette ’93 to summarize the Welcome Project in a brief statement, and they’ll do it in one sentence: How do we live with difference?

Of course, the multimedia venture is much more than that. But the statement gets to the heart and soul of the Welcome Project, which is a collection of stories from Valparaiso University students, faculty, and staff, as well as Valparaiso community members, that sheds light on the complex state of relationships on campus and in the surrounding community while helping others discover commonalities.

Wuerffel, adjunct assistant professor of art, and Schuette, associate professor of English, serve as co-directors of the Welcome Project.

And for their work on the project, the two have been named recipients of the 2013 Martin Luther King Jr. Award.

“Receiving the MLK Award is such a privilege,” Schuette said. “The people who have received the award before present models that I’ve always wanted to aspire to; people that go out of their way to make our community a better place in terms of its commitment to social justice and inclusiveness and diversity. So to be counted among their numbers is a great honor, and I feel not quite deserving of it in certain ways.”

Wuerffel began the Welcome Project more than three years ago as a way to tell stories through the written word. A couple instances of different cultures colliding gave her cause

Wuerffel, Schuette Foster Conversation With Welcome Project


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ure for concern. So she came up with an idea that included collecting

people’s stories about diversity within the community. As the project grew, it became apparent video and audio were an even more engaging way to tell the stories, and they should be shared on the Web. The Welcome Project and its collection of stories now lives at welcomeproject.valpo.edu.

Along the way, Schuette became heavily involved. Other faculty members have since become involved, including Phillip Powell, assistant professor of communication, Aimee Tomasek, associate professor of art, and Dena Hein, adjunct professor in Valpo Core. Wuerffel said about 30 to 40 students have taken part by collecting stories through interviews, noting that the students’ efforts have been integral to the project’s success.

“I think the goal of the Welcome Project is both narrow and broad,” Wuerffel said. “The narrow part is that we want to collect stories to assess the climate of Valparaiso right now in regards to diversity.

More broadly, we want to affect social change and social justice in this community so stories that might not be typically heard are heard and stories that are heard a lot are heard, but in a new light.”

Schuette said the project has been successful in taking conversations about diversity and turning them into something productive.

“There’s an enthusiasm and excitement because we’re working with stories, people’s stories, and there’s an intimacy that comes with that and a kind of connection,” Schuette said. “And stories refuse to simplify the complexity, which is so important when you are working and talking about contentious areas.

“Diversity and difference don’t always have to be contentious, but they often bring us into conflict. I think people tend to have a negative view of conflict, as destructive rather than productive. But stories, actually, can be the way that conflict can become productive. So people have been excited about that.” n

A Sense of Civic Duty

Barbara A. Young ’76 JD

Young Uses Valpo Law Degree to Lead Local Community FoundationBy Nicole Skinner

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Barbara A. Young ’76 JD believes that regardless of one’s career aspirations, a law degree can be a critical asset. She should know. As the current president of the Porter County Community Foundation, she leveraged her education and the doors it opened to establish a successful career path.

If timing is everything, Young certainly was in the right place at the right time. At Valparaiso University Law School, women were steadily chipping away at the barrier of the traditionally male-dominated legal profession — the path being laid down by those who were the early entrants into the field.

“I benefitted greatly from the battles fought by the women who entered law school prior to me,” Young said. “They were paving the way, and the women in my year, as well as those who came after, reaped the benefits.”

Her career track was established early, very much driven by her innate sense of civic duty — something that was ingrained in her upbringing and the fabric of life in the small town where she was raised. So it was no surprise that she would gravitate toward Hoeppner, Wagner & Evans, a Porter County-based law firm specializing in small business law, estate planning and real estate development, with an equally strong sense of civic pride and an expectation that its employees share the same commitment.

Young may well have found her true calling in her current position with the Porter County Community Foundation, Inc., established in 1998 to encourage community-based investment and long-term giving to local non-profit organizations. It is part of a state-wide initiative supported by the “Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT),” launched by the Lilly Endowment, that established community foundations throughout each of the state’s 92 counties.

Since taking over as president in 2001, Young’s leadership and long-standing community engagement has resulted in the fund growing at about $2 million annually. The fund continues to thrive

today and is a main artery for community giving despite a 26 percent loss in the 2008 recession. As a result, Young has valuable insights about running non-profits.

“Nonprofit are businesses,” she said. “They should not be regarded as quasi-volunteer jobs. Regardless of whether you have an endowment or rely upon individual donations, non-profits need to hire and develop skilled talent just like any other business and have high-caliber leadership that is compensated appropriately.

“Don’t join the board of a nonprofit or work in one just to add to your resume; you won’t give it the commitment required. But if you follow through and treat it as you would any other job, it will certainly help your credibility and provide a valuable network of future contacts.”

A recent report from the National Association of Women Lawyers cited fewer women considering law degrees since the peak year of 2004. But looking back, Young believes her law degree has been a significant contributing factor to her success. She encourages young people, especially women, to consider making the investment in time and money.

“The law is a good profession for women,” Young said. “We are typically good arbitrators and the course of study required to earn the degree helps you develop skills that identify risk, evaluate when to take it, and the importance of comprehensive research and preparation. It’s a huge field that touches upon every facet of our society, which is what makes it so interesting, but you don’t have to practice it.

“Valparaiso Law School provided me with a quality education and wonderful mentors at a time when I was ready to be focused and to take advantage of it. I would have not had career success without it.” n

Valpo Launches Alumni Facebook Page

The Office of Alumni Relations recently launched a Valparaiso University alumni Facebook page in hopes to stay connected and engage with alumni through social media. Since the launch, the page continues to grow and expand, and we look forward to your participation. Visit www.facebook.com/ValparaisoUniversityAlumni and “like” us. In addition to this page, the office also launched local pages for each of its Valpo Club cities. Make sure to check out your local Valpo Club Facebook page for up-to-date information about local alumni news, events happening in your area, and other ways you can connect with local alumni.

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As the Lutheran Deaconess Association Celebrates a 70-year Relationship with Valpo, the Former Executive Director ReflectsBy Tom Wyatt ‘94, ‘12 MS

A Lasting Relationship

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Louise Williams ’67 shakes her head and laughs now when she thinks about it. She wasn’t even 30 years old but had been given the reins of a nonprofit organization after spending only about six months prior as part of the staff.And that organization happened to be the Lutheran Deaconess Association on the campus of Valparaiso University. It was an organization that was near and dear to Williams’ heart, considering the LDA helped shape her life during her time as a student at Valpo and resident student in the LDA’s education and formation program.

Yet, suddenly, Williams was responsible for LDA staff members and resident students and the direction of the organization as whole.

“I was very young and inexperienced, and I kept saying that I needed to be 10 years older to be doing this job,” Williams said. “I had people’s lives in my hands. It was intimidating.”

That was nearly 40 years ago. Williams went on to spend 33 years as the executive director of the Lutheran Deaconess Association before retiring in 2008.

“I retired, and in lots of positions, you retire and go away and never see those people again,” Williams said. “But because of the kind of community we have among deaconesses, that contact is going to be there the rest of my life.”

The organization this year celebrates the 70th anniversary of its relationship with Valparaiso University. In 1943, Valparaiso University President O.P. Kretzmann helped to move the LDA’s headquarters adjacent to campus.

The LDA partners with Valparaiso University to educate and prepare women and men for servant leadership as Lutheran deaconesses and deacons who serve others in a variety of roles both within their churches and within their communities.

“Personally, I think the identity with Valparaiso University is a great gift,” Williams said. “It’s been a wonderful symbiotic relationship.”

Williams came to Valparaiso University from her hometown of Rolla, Mo., specifically to enter into the LDA education formation program and become a deaconess. At Valpo, she majored in theology and minored in psychology and sociology.

Williams spent about seven years away from Valpo after graduation on two different deaconess assignments before returning to become an LDA staff member, serving as director of deaconess services. After about six months, she became the first deaconess to lead the organization as executive director.

She immediately began work to mend any divisions that existed between deaconesses and the LDA Board of Directors, which was the policy maker for the organization.

“I think very early on I realized that the organization really needed to lean more on input from deaconesses themselves to shape what our policies were, what our education formation was like,” Williams said. “We developed with the Board some discussion points and asked the area conferences to discuss them. Those kinds of things really began to shape the organization in a somewhat different way.”

Deaconess Lisa Polito ’90 succeeded Williams as the LDA executive director in 2008. She previously served the LDA with Williams as director of development and public relations.

“Louise's leadership enlarged the scope and vision of the LDA, allowing more women to answer God's call to diakonia,” Polito said. “Her leadership allowed the LDA to be flexible, able to transform to answer the changing needs in the world. She has been invaluable in building relationships with diaconates around the world.”

Now, nearly four decades after Williams returned to the LDA and Valpo, the organization continues to develop women leaders but also now welcomes men in the education formation program. And because of a relationship with Valparaiso University and the Chapel of the Resurrection, there remains a strong tie the University’s Lutheran heritage and character.

“I’ve spent most of my life at Valpo,” Williams said. “I often say I’ve been shaped by the deaconess community. But I’ve also been shaped by Valparaiso University.”

The LDA will be hosting events throughout the year to celebrate the 70th anniversary of its relationship with Valpo, including a banquet on Nov. 8 in the Community Room at the Christopher Center for Library and Information Resources. n

“Personally, I think the identity with Valparaiso University is a great gift …” – Louise Williams ‘67

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Emily Royer ‘12 and Jacob Just ’12

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Nestled among overgrown evergreens and deciduous trees on the south side of campus sits Mueller Hall — home to Christ College, one of the nation’s oldest honors colleges. Since its doors opened in 1970, the brick walls have housed conversations of discourse and discovery.

Much like Mueller Hall, every building has a story — a rich history of time and place and the people who studied, worked and lived inside. Sparked by conversations inside Mueller, Emily Royer ’12 and Jacob Just ’12 listened for these stories during their time as Christ College students and continued this work through their collaboration on a story-telling project.

The Valpo grads currently research and document Central Stories for the Porter County Museum of History, which highlights the rich connections between historic architecture, memory, and community in one downtown Valparaiso, Ind., neighborhood.


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Recent Grads Document the Rich History of a Downtown Valparaiso NeighborhoodBy Nicole Niemi ’96

A Storyto Tell

“We were so humbled by the welcome we received that our project was less an academic analysis and more heartfelt retelling story that had become so close to us.” – Emily Royer ‘12

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about the history of the Central neighborhood with gallery displays and oral histories supporting their research.

The Central Stories project had modest beginnings from the very first conversations with professors Gretchen Buggeln and Elizabeth Lynn. In Buggeln’s American Home course, designed as a neighborhood study, Royer explored architectural history and material culture. Royer then applied her knowledge by observing how people live in their physical environment.

“We were so humbled by the welcome we received that our project was less an academic analysis and more heartfelt retelling story that had become so close to us,” she said.

Because of this, both Royer and Just postponed plans for graduate school in order to continue their education in the community.

“One of my very first classes at Valpo showed me that my time there, though I did not yet know it, would shape me not just into a skilled member of the workforce but also into a more thoughtful, caring human being and a more intentional Christian,” Royer said.

Reflective and oftentimes passionate conversations permeated throughout their time at Valpo, both inside and outside of classrooms, during meals with friends, and with professors who never hesitated to open their doors.

“In these relationships I first began to see what I was learning academically reflected in a real-world situation,” Royer said.

Inspired by Lynn’s Traditions of Giving and Serving in America course, Just learned the value of being receptive to different experiences and how relationships could truly transform his education.

“Be open and awake to what or who comes across your journey's path.” – Jacob Just ‘12

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“Valpo not only allowed a space for questions, it nurtured me to lean into those questions, lean hard and allow them to guide me — maybe never to an answer, even,” he said.

Royer and Just, both hailing from Fort Wayne, Ind., did not plan to stay in the Valparaiso community after graduation, and they never dreamed of working on an oral history project.

But Just contends his experiences at Valpo led him to be amenable to unexpected opportunities. “Be open and awake to what or who comes across your journey's path,” he said.

Quickly, and quite unexpectedly, Royer realized she wanted to pursue an interdisciplinary endeavor after graduation and sought counsel from Buggeln about how to carry the American Home class project into life post-graduation. The conversation continued with Lynn and Just, and eventually they developed the plan for the Central Stories.

What evolved is an ideal fit for the students and the community, according to Buggeln.

“Emily and Jake are especially curious about people — who they are, how they become that way, and how we live together in community,” Buggeln said. “They are also interested in the arts and are excellent observers of the world and the things people create for both utility and beauty.”

Since August 2012 the two have researched, interviewed, studied, and photographed the neighborhood, as well as collected oral histories and mapped community social networks. Ultimately, they strive to help the residents better understand and engage with the meaning of their place in the community.

Their project is possible through a myriad of support from the United Way of Porter County, which placed Just and Royer at the museum via AmeriCorps, the Indiana Humanities Grant and the Porter County Museum.

The Central Stories project is intended to help Valparaiso residents better understand and engage with the meaning and value of their place, even as the city continues to change and grow. And it’s only fitting that both Royer and Just continue to find their place and path in life as they help others reclaim theirs.

“I wanted to work with buildings, and communities, and stories, and I wanted to learn how to see and explain that all of these things were witnesses to and products of Christ's love,” Royer said.

Another component of the project includes the University’s new Institute for Leadership and Service, led by Lynn, who serves on an advisory committee for Central Stories. While the Institute is in its inaugural

year, Lynn encourages campus-wide classroom discussions on what it means to be a thoughtful leader and the exploration of why people serve others. These ideas seamlessly converge in Just and Royer’s project.

Just said Lynn modeled the receptivity required in order to build bridges with service; to connect with one another; to be awake, open, courageous; and to be willing to listen and ask questions.

“She invested in me, in many ways, and led me to invest in the Valparaiso and Porter County community,” Just said of Lynn. “She opened an avenue of service for my arts and question-driven mind.”

And this is just the beginning. n

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Greg Tonagel ’03, ’05 MA coaches the Indiana Wesleyan men’s basketball team from the sideline.

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By Tom Wyatt ’94, ’12 MS

Greg Tonagel ’03, ’05 MA wondered at times if it was even worth it. He was hobbled from knee injuries. And the number of surgeries to repair the injuries was adding up.

Maybe it was time to leave, he wondered. Or maybe it was time to stop playing altogether.

But Tonagel never gave up. He persevered through four knee surgeries, two medical red-shirts, and concluded his career on the court with the Valparaiso University men’s basketball team in the 2004 NCAA Tournament, where the Crusaders lost in the first round to Gonzaga.

Until this season, it was Valpo’s last appearance in the NCAA Tournament.

“That was the first time in my life that I faced real adversity,” Tonagel said. “Like most people when they face adversity, you ask why. Then there’s a level of frustration. Then you think about what you need to do.

“I thought about leaving, maybe hanging it up, or transferring to a lower level. Thank goodness I didn’t. That was a time in my life when the Lord taught me a lot of things. Through adversity and struggle is when I felt the calling for coaching.”

These days, Tonagel serves as head coach of the Indiana Wesleyan men’s basketball program, where he has led the Wildcats through a remarkable resurgence that has included five straight conference regular-season titles. In just eight seasons, Tonagel already is the program’s winningest coach. And he is only 33 years old.

He began his final playing season in 2003-2004 at Valpo as a player and assistant coach. Ironically, he was called into duty late that season because of injuries to teammates. The Crusaders finished 10-3 with Tonagel in the lineup as a point guard. The two-time Valpo captain returned to the Crusaders’ bench the following season as director of basketball operations before Indiana Wesleyan came calling.

“Valpo has had a huge influence on me as a person, which ultimately impacted my professional life as a coach,” said Tonagel, who lives with his wife and three children in Marion, Ind. “I didn’t enter Valpo thinking I was going to be a coach. But I left knowing that was my calling in life.

“I’m very excited to be a part of something special at Indiana Wesleyan. There are a lot of similarities between Valpo and Indiana Wesleyan; we’re both private institutions that do more than preach basketball. It’s a family experience, and that’s what I always felt like it was at Valpo. I’ve tried to carry that over.”

Tonagel, who led his Wildcats to the NAIA Round of 16 this past season, felt a bit nostalgic as he watched the Crusaders play in this year’s NCAA Tournament. Having also watched them play in person at the Athletics-Recreation Center in the Horizon League Tournament

Answering the Call to Coach The Former Crusaders Men’s Basketball Captain Builds His Own Program

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Tournament appearances he made with the Crusaders and coach Homer Drew during his six years with the team.

“We were fortunate, and we had some great teams and great players,” Tonagel said. “But people don’t realize how hard it is to get to the NCAA Tournament. So many things have to fall in place. [Coach] Bryce [Drew] has them back to where they need to be. They’re well-positioned to not only continue getting to the tournament but also to win games.”

As for his own future, Tonagel said he looks forward to continuing to build a strong program at Indiana Wesleyan. But if a Division I program came calling, he admitted he would have to give such an opportunity serious thought.

“That’s been something my wife and I have talked a lot about,” Tonagel said. “There’s always been a dream in me to coach in the NCAA Tournament. That’s probably every coach’s dream, and I would sure love the opportunity to do that. At the same time, I believe in what we’re doing at Indiana Wesleyan. But if that door opens and I get that opportunity, that would be great.” n

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One of them came from more than 9,600 miles away as the crow flies, from his hometown of Frankston, Victoria, Australia. The other made the 4,100-mile trip across the Atlantic Ocean, from his hometown of Hoofddorp, Netherlands.

Ryan Broekhoff and Kevin Van Wijk came from opposite sides of the world — their journeys bringing them together for the last three years at Valparaiso University, journeys that culminated in helping the Crusader men’s basketball program return to the NCAA Tournament this season.

The Valpo men’s basketball team has a long and storied tradition of welcoming international student-athletes, dating back to the mid-1990s, when Tony Vilcinskas and Zoran Viskovic came to Northwest Indiana from Lithuania and Croatia, respectively. Throughout the past two decades, a multitude of international players have played key roles on Crusader squads, representing the University on and off the court while helping the program to 12 postseason appearances.

A big key to the Crusaders’ success in recruiting international student-athletes has been the feeling that both the men’s basketball program and the campus are like family, inclusive to any and all in their midst.

“The Valpo campus and the community is family-oriented,” head coach Bryce Drew said. “That’s why some of the transfers and the players from around the world who come here feel so welcome, because we have so many international students and so many people from outside Indiana that come here. It’s a family atmosphere that makes Valpo special.”

It didn’t take long for Van Wijk to feel the camaraderie at Valparaiso.

“I connected with all the guys right away,” Van Wijk said. “It’s always a bit difficult with a new team, but everyone made me feel comfortable right away.”

It’s also a family atmosphere that extends beyond the team and the players, to even the players’ families.

“When [Ryan]’s been home, there’s never, ever been a time when we didn’t want to send him back,” said Broekhoff’s mother, Jo Toebelman. “Valpo’s become like a second home. We’ve made life-long friends. We always enjoy coming back.”

Broekhoff came to Valpo from the Australian Institute of Sport, where he was overshadowed by a number of his fellow teammates. In fact, Valparaiso University was the only Division I school to offer him a scholarship. But it took very little for Broekhoff and his family to know that Valpo was the right fit.

“When we visited Valparaiso for the very first time, straight away, we loved it,” Toebelman said. “He loved it. We did a lot of homework with people we trusted, basketball people in Australia,

and everybody we spoke to about Valparaiso said it was a fantastic school. They would care for him, nurture him, look after him, and he would get a good education.”

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Journey Around the GlobeBroekhoff, Van Wijk Continue Basketball Tradition of International ExcellenceBy Aaron Leavitt ’06


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Ryan Broekhoff (left) and Kevin Van Wijk

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Broekhoff’s journey at Valpo started as a freshman in 2009-2010, a season when the Crusaders went just 15-17 while he played just 15 minutes per game. But the Australian stayed the course through the rough times.

“The coaches never made any promises about starting or how many minutes I’d play,” Broekhoff said. “I always admired their honesty. The journey has had ups-and-downs, but I wouldn’t trade the last four years to go anywhere else.”

Meanwhile, Van Wijk’s journey never looked like it would cross paths with Broekhoff’s. Van Wijk spent three years following school playing at the Canarias Basketball Academy in the Canary Islands and never considered playing U.S. collegiate basketball until a visit from Drew, who was associate head coach at the time.

“I thought I would be in Spain my whole career and that I’d never leave,” Van Wijk said. “Then I met Coach Bryce and I started to get a good feel. Everything seemed really friendly about Valparaiso.”

Once he got to Valpo, Van Wijk’s journey had its share of challenges. Back problems limited the Dutch player in his first year as a Crusader and he was on the verge of leaving the game of basketball and Valparaiso University. But Van Wijk re-committed himself, staying in the States during the summer between his sophomore and junior seasons. He worked out every day to strengthen his back to the point where he could play as many minutes as needed.

Despite winning the Horizon League regular-season title for the 2011-2012 season, with Broekhoff earning league Player of the Year honors and Van Wijk receiving First Team All-League recognition, the Crusaders came up one game short of their ultimate goal of returning to the NCAA Tournament.

But this season, with one final shot to reach that goal, Broekhoff and Van Wijk, along with their teammates, made sure that their journeys would culminate with an appearance in the Big Dance. Selfless ambassadors for Valparaiso University, the duo echoed each other immediately after winning the league tournament and clinching the NCAA Tournament bid that it wasn’t about the individual achievements, but the team achievement.

“I want to do well for my teammates,” Van Wijk said. “It doesn’t matter about personal stats, or any of that stuff. If this is what I needed to do to get us in this position, for me to do this for my teammates, that’s what I had to do. The closer our goal came, I

“The journey has had ups-and-downs, but I wouldn’t trade the last four years to go anywhere else.”

– Ryan Broekhoff

Ryan Broekhoff shoots a last-second 3-pointer to beat Green Bay in the semifinals of the Horizon League Tournament.

Kevin Van Wijk boxes out a Wright State opponent in the championship game of the Horizon League Tournament.

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thought about all the years, all the workouts, all the training and the driving. It’s all worth it for this moment.”

“The personal accolades are fantastic, but this is what we play for,” Broekhoff said. “This is what we put in four hard years for. This is what we have come for when we come to practice every day and grind it out. We worked so hard in the offseason, the preseason, during the season. All this work was for this moment right now.”

While the on-court journey ended with a loss to Michigan State in the NCAA Tournament, both Broekhoff and Van Wijk have left an indelible imprint on the Valparaiso University campus and community. Both have been strong students at Valpo, consistently earning spots on the Horizon League Academic Honor Roll, and both have been at the forefront of the Crusaders’ community service work. Their journeys brought the pair a nearly 14,000 combined miles to Northwest Indiana, and together they helped return the Valpo men’s basketball program to national prominence. n

‘The Missionary & the Mercenary’By Dorthea Pauline Blanchard ’87

“The Missionary & the Mercenary” tells the tale of a young man during the fight for Irish nationalism. After a youthful Sean Michael Brennan watches his father being unjustly imprisoned, Brennan is pulled into a life of fear and brutality, with love being the only redemption. When even that seems lost, Brennan joins the priesthood and travels to Central America for missionary work. In his travels, Father Brennan meets a woman who changes everything.

Blanchard’s poetry was also featured in “Amsterdam Stories USA” by Rob Rombout and Rogier Van Eck.

‘Joyfully Aging’By Rich Bimler ’63

This life-affirming book discusses the negative attributes we tend to associate with old age and replaces them with an insightful and Biblical examination of the joy we can find throughout the aging process. Bimler discusses how to see aging as a blessing rather than a detriment. This book is about celebrating an abundant life in the Lord, as we grow older, wiser, and closer to God.

‘Hermitage, Olive Grove, Village: A Sabbatical in the South of France’By Mary (Utter ’65) Busse

Follow Mary Busse along her journey to the South of France and explore the simple, yet evocative, questions uncovered there. Through her examination of solitude, creation, and the dignity of life, Busse encounters a new depth of beauty. Vivid language provides a meaningful background to her renewing affirmation of joy and the gift of life.

‘The Taylor Street File of Red Cin’By JoBe Cerny ’70

With prohibition in full swing, Chicago suffered crime such as never before. When the cops are unable to handle the crime, the private investigative agency known as Taylor Street must step in. Frankie Turk and Lola Lahti are called in to use their non-traditional investigative techniques to discover the secrets behind the murder of a wealthy club owner’s husband, in the mysterious case file of Red Cin.

‘The Werwolf Experiment’By Susan (Marini ’88) Hira

“The Werwolf Experiment” is Hira’s sequel to the young adult book “The Werwolf on Eagle’s Nest Mountain,” which tells the story of three boys, Nick, Jack, and Mike. In “The Werwolf Experiment,” the boys learn that they won scholarships to attend the International Science Fair at Happyland Amusement Park. The strange thing is, they never entered the competition. Nick, Jack, and Mike soon realize that someone is looking for a long-lost serum developed and tested by the notorious

Dr. Mengele and coveted by Adolf Hitler. As the teens try to help the owner of Happyland find freedom from the medical experimentation secret he's carried all his life, they begin to understand the atrocities that thousands of prisoners were subjected to by Auschwitz’s infamous “Angel of Death.”

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1953Lulujean (Bockelmann) and Francis Zoll celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.

1965Roger H. Caldow retired recently from his position at Johns Hopkins University as Applied Physics Laborator after a successful career of more than 45 years. He now spends his time teaching confirmation, driving the Lord’s Truck, and modeling the WMRwy.

1967Robert Chambers has been appointed Orchestra Personnel Manager of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra in Pittsburgh.

1971Michael Roshar serves as Project Finance Law/Public Finance Law Attorney for Quarles & Brady in Milwaukee. Quarles & Brady was named in The Best Lawyers in America 2013.

1972John M. Bouman, ’75 JD, was recently named to the National Advisory Committee on Racial, Ethnic and Other Populations by the U.S. Census Bureau. This is a newly created committee that consists of 32 members. Bouman is currently the president of the Sargent Shriver National Center on Poverty Law.

1973William Alexa JD, Porter Superior Court II judge, was elected to another term in office.

1974John W. Lohrmann, ’77 JD, was just elected to a second term as Superior Court Judge in Walla Walla County in the state of Washington.

1976Valparaiso High School boys basketball coach Joe Otis, MA, captured his 350th career coaching victory with a win on Dec. 21, 2012, against Chesterton.

Jane Strayer, MALS, teaches sixth- and seventh-grade Language Arts at Thomas Jefferson Middle School in Valparaiso and was recognized as a December 2012 Teacher of Excellence.

M. Scott Wolfram, JD ’79, was recently elected Walla Walla County Superior Court Judge in the state of Washington.

1978Steve Gerse traveled with Into Focus Ministries to India, Bolivia, and Ethiopia.

Into Focus provides distance-reading glasses to those without access to vision care, as well as supporting the ministry of local Christian pastors and missionaries. Gerse lives in Woodland Hills, Calif., and is senior vice president of legal affairs for Columbia Pictures. He looks forward to seeing his classmates at the upcoming 35th reunion.

1979Kevin Breitzke was elected to his fifth term as Porter County Surveyor.

1980Chuck Baldwin is a board member and shareholder of Ogletree Deakins, one of the largest labor and employment law firms representing management. Baldwin was recently chosen as a 2013 Client Service All-Star by the BTI Consulting Group.

Richard F. Nugent Jr., JD, recently was hired as director of human resources and college counsel at Saint Mary’s College.

Anne Walther is an adjunct assistant professor at the University of Oklahoma’s Aviation Department. She is also working on a graduate degree in Aerospace Administration and Logistics at Southeastern Oklahoma State University. Walther is also continuing her full-time work as an Air Traffic Control Tower Simulator instructor at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City.

1984Pam (Benner ’89 MA) and Ed Byrne, professor of English at Valpo, and their son Alex, were featured in the November 2012 issue of Woman’s Day magazine. The article, “Caring for Alex,” profiles the role of parents as caretakers for an adult child with autism. Pam teaches seventh-grade English part-time. Follow her blog at http://pambyrne.blogspot.com/.

Allison Nichol, JD, received the Attorney General’s Award for Equal Employment Opportunity at the Attorney General’s 60th Award Ceremony at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. Nichol serves as special counsel for Disability Employment and liaison to the White House Office of National AIDS Policy, Office of the Associate Attorney General, Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.

John E. Martin, ’87 JD, has been selected to serve as a United States Magistrate Judge for the Court in the Hammond (Ind.) Division. Chief Judge Phillip P. Simon said that Martin “is an outstanding attorney with significant experience representing defendants in Federal

court and state court, and also as a prosecutor in State court.” Martin currently serves as deputy federal community defender in Hammond.

1987Stephen Krentz ’90 JD, has been appointed associate judge for the 23rd Judicial Circuit, Kendall County, Ill.

1992Robert Grafelman, of Wyoming, Minn., has joined PHS Inc. as a program manager, overseeing the day-to-day operation of two adult foster care homes for developmentally disabled adults.

Tammy (Rohleder) Hutchison is now working as a HRIS Business Manager for S.C. Johnson in Racine, Wis. In addition, she is a master-level basketball and softball official, working high school varsity and Division II and III college games. She and her husband, Murray, a project manager for AonHewitt, live in Racine with their two children, Megan and Alex.

1993Debbie Bolen was named to the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame’s 2013 Silver Anniversary Team.

1994David Rakow, JD, of Rockwall, Texas, was elected District Judge 439th District Court. He was first appointed by Gov. Rick Perry when the court was created in 2010. Rockwall County is one of the fastest growing counties in Texas. The Texas legislature has created two new courts in the past eight years to accommodate the growth. Rakow has been selected to start both of those courts. He and his wife, Amy, have been married 16 years and have two boys.

1995Kevin Sprecher, JD, has recently joined Baker Hostetler as counsel. Baker Hostetler’s intellectual property group consists of 75 attorneys nationwide. Sprecher was previously a partner with Frost Brown Todd LLC before coming to Baker Hostetler. BIRTHTo Natalie (Holz) and James Warden: Finley George Warden, born April 30, 2012.

1997Eric Doden, JD, was named CEO of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.

Kathleen E. Peek, JD, has joined the Chicago office of Wilson Elser and will participate in

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two of the firm’s national practices, General Liability and Casualty and Product Liability.

1999Brad Pierce is now design partner with Haven Home Staging & Interior Design in Chicago.

BIRTHTo Amelia (Hurlock) and James Boomker ’03 of Bolingbrook, Ill.: Connor Joseph, born Sept. 10, 2012; joins brothers Daniel, 7, Liam, 5, and Ryan, 3.

2000 MARRIAGESarah Manzeske to Raul Torres, Chicago. Wedding party alumni included Kim (Ehler) Debelak and Kelli Baumgarn.

BIRTHSTo Beth (Sneller) and Mark Earnest ’97: Benjamin David, born Sept.18, 2012; joins brother Tyler, 4.

To Jenn Wildermuth and Jeff Walter: Jaxson Walter, born Sept. 20, 2012.

2001Melinda Bentley, JD, recently accepted a position on the Legal Ethics Counsel in Jefferson City, Mo.

Adrienne M. (Harding) Vicari was promoted to regional service group manager for financial services in the Harrisburg office for Herbert, Rowland and Grubic, Inc. Vicari earned her bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Valparaiso University and has 11 years of experience in providing financial, project management, and design engineering services for municipal wastewater, water, and stormwater clients. She is a licensed professional engineer in Pennsylvania and Ohio.

MARRIAGEJason Easterday and Leslie Miller, November 2012, Phoenix.

2002Jim Palmer, JD, recently became a regional vice president for the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO). Palmer is employed as the executive director for the Wisconsin Professional Police Association (WPPA). He is the youngest chief executive in the WPPA’s 80-year history and was recently featured on CNN’s “The Situation Room” with Wolf Blitzer to discuss the tragic Sikh Temple shooting in Oak Creek, Wis.

Will Runkle recently earned his board certification in healthcare management as a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. He is employed at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School

as the administrative director of the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Boston.

MARRIAGEChristopher Magee to Ellen Beresheim, July 29, 2012, in Palatine, Ill. Best man was Roger Kirchner.

2003Michael M. Bell, JD, has joined Howard and Howard Attorneys PLLC. He will practice out of the firm’s Royal Oak Office while still advising clients in Southwest Michigan and Indiana. Bell concentrates his practice in the areas of finance, real estate development, agriculture and strategic corporate planning.

Justin Ballard recently accepted a position with Flagstar Bank as a records management compliance specialist at the Troy, Mich., headquarters.

Andrew Bordewick completed his MBA in August 2012 and received the Outstanding Part-Time MBA Student award at Illinois State University in Normal, Ill. Bordewick is working as a strategic marketing specialist at Country Financial in Bloomington, Ill.

Jeanette Gray will travel with the U.S. Women’s National Football team to Finland in late June to participate in the second International Federation of American Football Women’s World Championship.

Curtis J. Martin II, JD, was recently presented with the 2012 Presidential Award by the National Bar Association Award for his exemplary service to the legal profession. In 2011, Martin was named to “Who’s Who in Law and Accounting” by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, was recognized as one of the Atlanta Business League’s Men of Influence, was named a Georgia Super Lawyers Rising Star, and was selected as a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation and the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity.

Alex Rabin, JD, of Springfield, Ill., has been named treasurer of the Board of Governors for Shriners Hospitals for Children — St. Louis. Rabin, a member of Ansar Shriners, has served on the board since January 2009. Shriners Hospitals for Children — St. Louis is a network of 22 hospitals serving hundreds of children throughout central Illinois.

Benjamin S. J. Williams, JD, a partner with the law firm of Shambaugh, Kast, Beck and Williams, LLP, was recently certified as a trust and estate law specialist by the Trust and Estate Specialty Certification Board of the Probate, Trust and Real Property Section, Indiana State Bar Association. The certified trust and estate law specialist designation acknowledges the attorney’s proficiency in dealing with all aspects of the trust and estate law practice.

BIRTHSTo Leslie (Knueppel) and Thomas Warner: Bradley Thomas Warner, born Sept. 22, 2012.

To Richard Kurek and wife Kourtney of New Lenox, Ill.: Gwendolynn Amelia, born Aug. 29, 2012.

MARRIAGEJustin Ballard to Rebecca Schendel, Dec. 28, 2011.

2004Lisa Moser, JD, was sworn in to the recently created position of Porter County Court Commissioner.

BIRTHTo Joseph Vorrier and wife Christine: Misty Noelle, born Feb. 19, 2013.

2005Caleb Joseph Crainer was ordained to the ministry of Word and Sacrament in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America on Sept. 1, 2012. Bishop Dean Nelson of the Southwestern California Synod presided at the ordination. Crainer has been called to serve as the pastor at St. Andrew's Lutheran Church, in Los Angeles.

Meredith Forts completed her Master of Science in nonprofit management and philanthropy from Bay College in May 2012. She is employed at Salve Regina University in Newport, R.I., as special gifts officer.

Avaneesh Marwaha, JD, accepted the position of chief operating officer at Keno Kozie Associates in Chicago.

Crystal Morgan, JD, partner at Bloom Sluggett Morgan, P.C., a Grand Rapids, Mich., law firm, has received Rising Star honors from the peer review group, Super Lawyers. Super Lawyers recognizes outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement.

Josie (Norberg) Lopez graduated from West Suburban Medical Center family medicine residency and is now working at Cook County Ambulatory and Community Health Network as an attending physician. She and her husband are enjoying their new daughter, Emily.

Sarah (Vance) and Chris Bottger relocated to San Rafael, Calif., in August for Sarah to work as assistant director of undergraduate admission at Dominican University of California.

BIRTHSTo Amy (Hurt) and Ryan Wagner: Claire Noelle, born Dec. 7, 2012.

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1939Gracecaryl (Lantz) Ugland, March 14, 2013, Valparaiso, Ind.

1941Evelyn N. (Herscher) Weber, Sept. 26, 2012, Fort Myers, Fla.

1943Harold W. Bischoff, July 21, 2012, Dublin, Ohio

Elizabeth “Betty” C. (Kleinhans) Curtis, Sept. 21, 2012, Chesterfield, Mo.

1944Irene T. (Ikey) Tetreault, Dec. 10, 2012, Ohio

1945Martha L. (Berry) Devine, March 24, 2012, Noblesville, Ind.

Mildred Emma (Gieseking) Duesenberg, Oct. 12, 2012, Fort Worth, Texas

1946Lenore Marie (Schulte) Manke, April 29, 2012, Winter Haven, Fla.

Frank Behning, Dec. 22, 2012, Alpharetta, Ga.

1947John Hoyer, Nov. 3, 2011, St. Louis

Roger S. Timm, April 2, 2012, Munster, Ind.

1949Edna Mae (Schultz) Klett, Jan. 10, 2012

Herman J. Larson, Jan. 14, 2012, Highland, Ind.

Elroy Bruss, Sept. 4, 2012, Cedarburg, Wis.

Walter Richard Bauer, Nov. 24, 2012, Richmond, Ind.

Robbert W. Raddatz, June 24, 2012, New Haven, Conn.

Oscar Smith, JD, Jan. 26, 2013, LaPorte, Ind.

1950Vernon Thalmann, Feb. 29, 2012

Walter Muente, May 9, 2012, Tucson, Ariz.

Ivan G. Parker, Oct. 6, 2012, Santa Cruz, Calif.

Eugene Skerkoske, Dec. 3, 2012, Rockford, Ill.

Ernest Joyce, Feb. 22, 2013, Bridgeton, Mo.

1951Arthur C. Schulz, Aug. 20, 2011, North Tonawanda, N.Y.

Ralph H. Jones, Dec. 23, 2011, LaPorte, Ind.

Robert Hillburg, July 26, 2012, Tucson, Ariz.

Donald Dean, Nov. 1, 2012, Santa Rosa, Calif.

William Aszman, Nov. 10, 2012, Valparaiso, Ind.

Ottilia Hulda “Lee” (Prahl) Zastrow, Nov. 11, 2012, Greenfield, Wis.

Claude Wolfe, Dec. 28, 2012, Batavia, Ill.

Melford Crisman, Jan. 23, 2013, Valparaiso, Ind.

Betty (Maaske) Holen, Feb. 14, 2013, Holdrege, Neb.

Bernt Ruediger, Feb. 20, 2013, Knoxville, Tenn.

1952Ruth A. (Roessler) Buente, Feb. 26, 2011, Evansville, Ind.

Nadine C. (Piske) Sahlstrom, May 26, 2011, Rockford, Ill.

John P. Schilling, Jan. 2, 2012, Detroit

Henry J. Looft, March 19, 2012, Valparaiso, Ind.

Harold Rehmer, March 20, 2012, Bellevue, Wash.

L.V. Shroeder, June 4, 2012, Fullerton, Calif.

Del Moeller, Sept. 18, 2012

Jack Durben, Nov. 10, 2012, Edwardsburg, Mich.

George Blyholder, Feb. 24, 2013, Fayetteville, Ark.

1953Ronald Moltzan, Jan. 18, 2013, Mandeville, La.

Alfred David Bosser, March 7, 2013, Neenah, Wis.

Carolyn Wells (Lindsey) Bush, ’73 MALS, Jan. 16, 2013, Madison, Wis.

1954Louise Lois (Tomlonson) Rode, Nov. 15, 2012, Indianapolis

In Memoriam

To Rachel (Weide) and Jeff Kondraschow: Hudson Daniel, Oct. 9, 2011. Proud Grandparents Carol (Eiwen ’77) and Jim Weide ’74.

2006Jaime Parsons, JD, recently accepted a position at Exelon.

MARRIAGESJennifer Lichtle to Patrick Maves, June 23, 2012.

Britt Nelson to Bob Schmidt, Oct. 12, 2012, celebrating with many Valpo swimming alumni at their reception in Madison, Wis.

2007Meagan Beaver, chief operating officer of Building Systems Solutions in Fridley, Minn., is one of the mentors for Imagine the Possibilities, a program that prepares vulnerable children for rewarding business careers. The program was spearheaded by Risen Christ Catholic School in Minneapolis. Beaver also owns her own photography and marketing company, Brighton Marketing LLC, and is the co-founder of Business Networking Connection, a networking group for Twin Cities business leaders.

BIRTHTo Ruth (Foelber) and Kris Martin: Aaron, born Aug. 25, 2012; joins brother Zach. Aaron was the first baby born at the new Porter Regional Hospital in Valparaiso, Ind.

2008Nate Leonard is PhD candidate in chemical engineering and his wife Kelly (Veltema) Leonard teaches English as a Second Language at Michigan State University.

Dino L. Pollock, JD, has been named the deputy attorney general in civil litigation for the Office of the Indiana Attorney General in Indianapolis. Pollock was sworn in by Indiana Attorney General Gregory Zoeller.

MARRIAGEKelly Veltema to Nate Leonard, Aug. 25, 2012, East Lansing, Mich.

2009Shannon Speaker was consecrated as a deaconess in September of 2012 at St. John Lutheran Church, Williamsville, NY.

Wakaba Y. Tessier, MS, joined Husch Blackwell as an associate in the firm’s healthcare group in St. Louis. Tessier has concentrated her practice in health care law

since obtaining her JD from Washington University School of Law, and prior to that worked in the health care industry for a pharmaceutical consulting firm.

2011Emily Burman to Alex Barnes, Oct. 13, 2012, in Fort Wayne, Ind.

Johnna Venuto, the first Valparaiso University business major to become a deaconess student, now serves Burke Lutheran Church in Madison, Wis., and was consecrated there in November of 2012.

MARRIAGESRachel Steele to Patrick Johnson ’12, May 26, 2012, Fraser, Mich., at St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Anthony Westover to Luis Ingram, June 26, 2012, Buffalo, N.Y.

2012Kathleen Borchers was consecrated as a deaconess and now works at Lutheran Church of the Ascension in Northfield, Ill.

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Faculty ObituariesPaul H. Brietzke, professor of law at Valparaiso University Law School, died Jan. 2, 2013. Born in Chicago, he graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Lake Forest College, received his JD from the University of Wisconsin and his PhD from the University of London. For 43 years, he was a law professor and scholar of the law. During his career, he taught law at the University of Malawi, Haile Selassie University (Ethiopia), Brunel University (United Kingdom), and for the last 34 years, at Valparaiso University School of Law. He was Fulbright Professor of Law at universities in Vietnam and Malaysia. In addition, he served as an overseas legal education and legal reform consultant in a number of countries, including Indonesia, Afghanistan, Mongolia, and China.

Virginia C. Shingleton, associate professor of economics, died Dec. 27, 2012, in Valparaiso, Ind. She graduated with degrees in economics from the University of Connecticut (BA in 1972, MA in 1974) at a time when there were few women in her field. She also taught part-time at Campbell College (now Campbell University), Marquette University, Lynchburg College, and IUPUI. While working part-time, raising two sons, and serving as a Cub Scout leader, she earned two more degrees in economics from Notre Dame (MA in 1990, PhD in 1994). For the last 21 years, she was a full-time member of the faculty at Valparaiso University, where she served as departmental chair since 1998.

Ronald Gother, ’56 JD, Jan. 21, 2013, Indian Wells, Calif.

Charles “Chuck” Lembke, Jan. 28, 2013, Valparaiso, Ind.

Mary J. (Christianson) Shoop, Feb. 13, 2013, West Chester, Pa.

Jane (Albright) Broten, March 3, 2013, Elk Grove Village, Ill.

1955Sylvia H. (Lentzsch) Evanko, Sept. 20, 2011, Lavallette, N.J.

Doris M. (Lawrence) Wilson, Dec.18, 2011, Louisville, Ky.

Carol R. (Haltenhoff) Erb, Dec. 20, 2012, Port Angeles, Wash.

Donald Wesley, Feb. 4, 2013, Centennial, Colo.

1956Richard Schumacker, May 4, 2003, Fort Wayne, Ind.

Wilfred Aljets, Sept. 2, 2012, Dorsey, Ill.

1957Paul E. “Dutch” Graesser, June 10, 2012, Naples, Fla.

Anita C. (Hatfield) Fisher, Dec. 17, 2012, Plover, Wis.

Erna Maria Oldermann Zipay, Jan. 23, 2013, East Hanover, N.J.

Peter Plimpton, Feb. 2, 2013, Menominee, Wis.

1958Ingrid Marie (Schlange) Erickson, Sept. 21, 2012, Cheyenne, Wyo.

Robert Nilsen, Sept. 29, 2012, Elkhart, Ind.

Robert Henry Wohnrade, Nov. 30, 2012, Bull Valley, Ill.

Robert G. Zimmerman, Jan. 16, 2013, Valparaiso, Ind.

Jack Lawrentz, Jan. 29, 2013, Lafayette, Ind.

Marilyn (Freitag) Deady, March 2, 2013, Pasadena, Md.

1959Kent Vogel, Nov. 29, 2012, Glenshaw, Pa.

Alfred Ruiz, Feb.11, 2013, Glendale, Ariz.

Gretchen (Wagner) Ocock, March 14, 2013, Sarasota, Fla.

1960Beverly Pamela (Manzelmann) Jahn, Nov. 9, 2011, Ann Arbor, Mich.

Lorraine Freda (Hall) Duesenberg, Sept. 28, 2012, Kirkwood, Mo.

1961Dorothy (Seebeck) Goehring, July 18, 2012, Prescott, Ariz..

Ruth Ellenberger, Aug. 13, 2012, Valparaiso, Ind.

Carolyn (Schimkus) Ketterer, Feb. 6, 2013, San Diego, Calif.

Carol (Weber) Conrad, March 18, 2013, Valparaiso, Ind.

1962Dennis McDaniels, Feb. 26, 2012, Amherst, Mass.

Frederic Paetz, Oct. 1, 2012, St. Louisville, Ohio

Gerald Christiansen, Oct. 9, 2012, Sioux City, Iowa

Corinne Ruth (Dibblee) Sutter, MEd ’69, Feb. 4, 2012, Munster, Ind.

Robert B. Selund Jr., ’78 JD, July 31, 2012, Ogden Dunes, Ind.

1963Joy (Degler) Koelling, Dec. 2, 2012, Mattoon, Ill.

1964John Ranke, June 8, 2011, Bayport, N.Y.

Lana Lucille (Dygert) Marten, Nov. 20, 2012, Cortland, Ill.

Susan Miller, Feb. 22, 2013, Salt Lake City, Utah

1965Joan E. Jenny, Oct. 11, 2012, Worthington, Ohio

1968Patricia A. (Clark) Pearson, Jan. 18, 2013, Alexandria, Va.

Andrea Lea (Dzurik) Sachtleben, Jan. 28, 2013, Pinehurst, NC.

1969Gretchen (Jehn) Koeneman, Aug. 28, 2011, Burr Ridge, Ill.

Barbara (Kretz) Chap, Nov. 27, 2012, Alpharetta, Ga.

Dorothy (O’Donnell) Ball, Feb. 24, 2013, Valparaiso, Ind.

1970Donald Ruhl, MA, Oct. 1, 2011, Winona Lake, Ind.

Carole Corniels-Kunold, Sept. 30, 2012, Aurora, Ill.

Janet L. Walls, Oct. 7, 2012, Indianapolis

Lewis Raymond Bolitho, Feb. 12, 2013, Phoenix

1971Gwendolyn (Bowman) Gracie, MALS, Nov. 18, 2011, LaPorte, Ind.

Arthur G. Yanke, Nov. 19, 2012, Bristol, Conn.

1972Thomas Jaffke, JD, Aug. 11, 2012, Frankenmuth, Mich.

Steve Lustina, JD, Nov. 7, 2012, Crown Point, Ind.

1974Max Messman, JD, Nov. 5, 2012, Tacoma, Wash.

1976James Robert Sievers, ’78 MALS, Dec. 21, 2012, Valparaiso, Ind.

1978Daniel M. Heine, Sept. 1, 2012.

1979Dolores “Dee” (Smith) Wilson, MEd, March 1, 2011, Valparaiso, Ind.

William Carl Heerman, March 15, 2013, Suwanee, Ga.

1980Douglas A. Falk, Feb. 9, 2012, Crete, Ill.

William Hoehner, JD, Aug. 24, 2012, Sarasota, Fla.

1981Donald Pagos, JD, Nov. 3, 2011, Michigan City, Ind.

Eleanora (Kampschmidt) Pennekamp, (Honorary), Dec. 10, 2012, Lakeland, Fla.

1985Thomas F. Nolan, Oct. 19, 2012, Bristol, Ind.

1986Alan Stalmah, July 26, 2012, Valparaiso, Ind.

1988Leesa (Taylor) Sexton, Dec. 14, 2012, Argos, Ind.

Clarice M. (Grosenick) Frey, MALS, Dec. 21, 2012, Valparaiso, Ind.

1991Russell Carr, Feb. 7, 2012, St. Louis

1997Mary Ann (Hilton) Naccarato, MSN, ’00 FNP, Nov. 8, 2012, Merrillville, Ind.

1999Jeffery A. Barkes, JD, Oct. 25, 2012, Columbus, Ind.

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Student-athletes at Valparaiso University continue to distinguish themselves academically, graduating at a higher rate than their peers at many other universities, according to information released by the NCAA.

Using an average of graduation rates compiled by the four most recent classes, the NCAA study showed that 80 percent of Valpo's student-athletes graduated within six years of enrollment and that they had a Graduation Success Rate of 94 percent.

The graduation rate is determined using methodology employed by the federal government, while the Graduation Success Rate, which incorporates information on students transferring into and out of institutions, was created by the NCAA. Nationally, the graduation rate for student-athletes at NCAA Division I institutions was 64 percent and the Graduation Success Rate was 80 percent.

For the fourth consecutive year, both the graduation rate and the Graduation Success Rate for Valpo's student-athletes ranked highest among members of the Horizon League. Valparaiso University also ranked second among the 10 Indiana institutions competing at the Division I level in both metrics, trailing only the University of Notre Dame. “We are extremely proud that Valpo student-athletes continue to be leaders in academic achievement,” Valparaiso University Director of Athletics Mark LaBarbera said.

Reports on specific teams for the most recent cohort year showed the women's tennis team achieved a 100 percent graduation rate. The women's tennis team was joined by men's swimming, women’s cross country/track and field, women's soccer and volleyball as programs with a 100 percent Graduation Success Rate.

“This high level of achievement, combined with last year's successes in competition, clearly demonstrate the quality of the young people here at Valpo," LaBarbera said.

Student-Athlete Success Shines Through in NCAA Report

Valpo’s Luisa Desario takes on a Bowling Green defender.

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2013 Hall of Fame Class HonoredFour individuals and one group of teams were inducted into the Valparaiso University Athletics Hall of Fame as the Class of 2013 on Saturday, Feb. 16. Katie Boone ’05, Floyd Henderson ’57, Paul Naumann ’57, and Jack Todhunter ’63 all were inducted, as well as the Crusaders’ cross country teams from 1963-1965.

Boone, who played women's basketball for the Crusaders from 2001-2005, helped lead Valparaiso to a pair of NCAA Tournament appearances over her four-year career, as well as a WNIT quarterfinal appearance. She was named the Mid-Continent Conference Newcomer of the Year for the 2001-2002 season, was honored as the Mid-Con Tournament MVP in 2003 and earned Second Team All Mid-Con honors for the 2003-2004 campaign. Boone ranks second in program history in career assists (448) and fifth in steals (186).

Henderson, who was a member of the football and track and field squads, was the first African-American student-athlete to compete for Valparaiso University. Henderson, whose career was interrupted by military service from 1953-1955, was known on the gridiron for his electrifying runs, both from his halfback position on offense and as part of the Crusaders' punt return game.

Naumann earned four letters in both baseball and football for the Crusaders. On the diamond, he was a First Team All-Conference selection as a left fielder in 1954. Meanwhile, on the gridiron, he set single-game records for touchdowns (4) and points scored (24), which still stand today, and rushed for 1,278 yards during his career, including a senior season where he had team-high totals of 637 rushing yards and 264 receiving yards. Naumann went on to a standout coaching career, which earned him election into multiple Hall of Fames.

Todhunter was named a First Team All-American following a senior season with the baseball team in which he batted .382 and was also a First Team All-ICC selection. He led the Indiana Collegiate Conference with a .452 batting average in league play as a freshman, a campaign in which he hit .391 overall. His .364 career batting average is tied for sixth all-time in Crusader history.

The Crusader cross country squads from 1963, 1964, and 1965 put together perhaps the most impressive run of high finishes in national competition in Valpo athletics history. The Crusaders placed fourth in the NCAA College Division national meet in 1963, seventh in 1964, and third in 1965, leading the Vidette-Messenger to write “... for a record unmatched by any other competitors and one which makes Valparaiso a national power on the cross country scene.” Throughout the three years, the Crusaders won 26 of 28 dual meets, five of six invitationals, a pair of Indiana Collegiate Conference team championships, and three Indiana Little State titles.

The 1964 Valparaiso University men's cross country team.


The Valparaiso University men’s basketball team was even with third-seeded Michigan State through nearly nine minutes of its second-round game in the Midwest Region of the 2013 NCAA Tournament on March 21 in Auburn Hills, Mich., but the Spartans went on a 24-4 run to pull away as the Crusaders eventually fell by a final score of 65-54.

The loss ended the Crusaders’ season at 26-8 and brought to a close the careers of six Valpo seniors. It was Valpo’s first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2004 and its eighth all time.

“We have a special group of guys, [a] special group of seniors,” said Crusaders head coach Bryce Drew. “I told them I was most proud the last five minutes of the game. There was no way I was going to take them off the floor when they were playing with that much character, that much heart. They wanted to play to the final buzzer and they deserve that right to.”

The Crusader defense was strong early on, holding Michigan State, which entered the game ranked ninth nationally, to just 3-of-14 shooting over the first nine minutes while also forcing a trio of turnovers. Valpo, which was the 14th seed in the region,

struggled offensively, but took advantage of inside baskets in the opening stretch from Matt Kenney and Bobby Capobianco and a 3-pointer by Ben Boggs to tie the game at 8-8 past the second media timeout.

But Michigan State put together its key run over the next eight-plus minutes, hitting nine of its 12 field-goal attempts during the 24-4 outburst. Meanwhile, the Crusaders were just 1-of-10 over the same stretch — a foul-line jumper from Kenney — and also committed five turnovers as the Spartans pulled out to a 32-12 lead with 2:30 left in the half before taking a 35-18 at halftime.

“I was very pleased as a coach with the looks that we got,” Drew said. “I thought we got quality looks. And like we told our guys, sometimes we can’t control shots going in. We can control our effort, we can control our character, and I thought over the 40 minutes our effort and character made their coach proud today.”

Valpo started the second half slowly, with Derrick Nix converting a fifth-chance basket for the Spartans. The Spartans’ largest advantage came with 14:15 on the clock and a 49-22 edge.

Valpo Caps Season with Trip to NCAA TournamentCrusaders Rally Late Before Falling to Michigan State

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But the Crusaders didn’t fold, going on a 9-0 run over a two-minute span to slice the deficit to 49-31. Later in the half, Valpo put together another run, as trailing by 23, Ryan Broekhoff converted an old-fashioned three-point play and Erik Buggs got to the basket for hoops on three straight trips to make it 56-40 with 7:04 remaining.

The Crusaders came out of the final media timeout determined to fight to the very end. Down by 19 with just over three minutes to play, Boggs poured in 12 points as Valpo outscored Michigan State 12-4 over the game’s final stretch.

Boggs finished the game as the Crusaders’ leading scorer, tallying 15 total points in just 11 minutes of action. Buggs was 7-of-11 from the floor for 14 points, all coming in the second half, and also tallied five steals as Valpo totaled 12 steals and forced 17 Michigan State turnovers. Kenney also finished in double figures in his final game, scoring 10 points.

Broekhoff was limited to just eight points on 2-of-11 shooting, while Kevin Van Wijk failed to make a field goal and scored just two points but pulled down a team-high seven rebounds.

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Valpo coach Bryce Drew (left) and Michigan State coach Tom Izzo shake hands following the game.

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For the first time in program history, the Valparaiso University men’s golf team advanced to the NCAA Tournament after winning the Horizon League Championship on April 28 at the Mission Inn Resort in Howey-in-the-Hills, Fla.

The Crusaders finished with three-round total of 884. Cleveland State was second with a total of 888.

“We had five tournaments this year that we were leading going into the final round,” Valpo head coach David Gring said. “This was one of the three we won and the most important.”

Junior Thomas Wettstein recorded a 2-under par round of 70 in the final round to take medalist. Wettstein finished with a three-round total of 214. It was the first time in his Crusader career he won medalist honors.

Junior Kyle Henning made three birdies in the final round, all coming on the back nine, to shoot 75 and finish tied for fifth with a total of 223. By finishing in the top-seven, both Wettstein and Henning made the all-tournament team.

Senior Austin Gaugert finished tied for 12th with total of 226. Fifth-year senior Brad Winters fired a final round 76 to finish tied for 14th with a total of 228.

“Our five seniors represent the first graduating class since the golf program was reinstated four years ago,” Gring said. “I’m proud of them for working so hard this entire year. The victory today is a team championship.”

Valpo played in one of the six NCAA Regional Championships beginning on May 16. Pairings were released after VALPO Magazine’s press time.

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Former Valparaiso University goalkeeper Kyle Zobeck ’12 has become the first Crusader men’s soccer player to sign a Major League Soccer contract. Zobeck inked a deal with FC Dallas in March.

“He was a player who we followed at Valparaiso, and we were fortunate that he was still available in the supplemental draft,” FC Dallas head coach Schellas Hyndman said. “We brought him in, and we've been really pleased with his progress, his abilities, and also his character. I think he will be a good keeper for FC Dallas and will make our goalkeeping group even better.”

Zobeck was selected by FC Dallas in the second round (26th overall) of the 2013 MLS Supplemental Draft, following a stellar career at Valpo. He closed out his college career as the program's all-time leader in both goals-against average (0.91) and shutouts (23), setting single-season records in both categories as a junior (0.66, 11) as he helped the Crusaders to the Horizon League regular-season championship.

The two-time league goalkeeper of the year also twice earned First Team All-League honors. A success in the classroom as well, Zobeck was one of 10 finalists for the Senior CLASS Award during his senior season, and last summer he was honored as a Tau Beta Pi Laureate.

Former Crusader Zobeck Signs With MLS Team

Hildred (Hirt ’59) and Ed Tornberg ’55 have chosen to include Valparaiso University in their estate plan, ensuring ongoing support for our students of promise.

“The Lutheran character of the University was an important factor for both of us in making our choice of a school. We appreciate the quality of the education we received as well as many friendships from both then and now. In 1994 our youngest son began studies at Valpo, and a year later we were fortunate to profit from a sale of the company of which Ed had been one of the founders. In deciding how to handle the proceeds, it was pointed out to us that some use of the proceeds could be retained while transferring ownership to a charity through a Charitable Remainder Unitrust. Valpo was an obvious choice because it had been an important part of our lives, and this would give us an estate planning opportunity to help ensure that the mission of Valparaiso University would continue for future students.”

— Hildred (Hirt ’59) and Ed Tornberg ’55

‘For future students’

about including Valpo in your estate plans, visit valpo.giftplans.org, email [email protected], or call 219-464-5147

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