VOL. XXVII No.

Spring 2010

FAMILY
FIRST

Holy Names University

welcomes its newest family member,
President –elect , Dr. William J. Hynes.

MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 1 5/21/10 11:29 AM

 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

May 2010

G rowing up in a Lebanese family is I believe that it is providential

one of the strongest influences in that my last message to you is
my life – both in terms of who I’ve be- focused on family. This most
come and in terms of how I encounter valuable aspect of our HNU
and manage life experiences. The love culture is so engrained in all
of family, the power of faith and the that we are that we sometimes
value of education are three dominant take it for granted and don’t
aspects of our family background. My even notice it. Parents highlight
father taught me achievement, integrity it over and over again. They
and courage. My mother taught me and feel comfort and confidence
still teaches me enthusiasm, generosity in entrusting their sons and
and resilience. daughters to us because it is
an extension of their families.
The strongest influence that compelled They fully believe that we want
me to come to Holy Names was the as much for our students as they
quality of the people that I encountered want for their children. This is
who were so dedicated to this institu- a quality that cannot be bought
tion. The deepest inspiration that I have and cannot even be added. It
experienced throughout my presidency comes from the soul of who we
is the people that I have encountered are, instilled by the Sisters of
who are so willing to give everything to the Holy Names of Jesus and
make Holy Names University all that Mary who believe in the im-
our world needs. The aspect that I will measurable value of each and
miss the most as I leave the presidency is every person.
the people that I have encountered, who
have believed in me and supported me. This is an institution that prides itself on Our next President, Dr. William Hynes, is
I have learned from them that giving educating the first in the family to get a the newest member of our HNU family. I
all to this institution returns to you in college degree because we know that this have full confidence that he is not only the
measures that are unimaginable. changes the entire family landscape. This right choice, but also that he will connect
is an institution that prides itself on be- with this family in a way that will unleash
Holy Names University is much more ing the most diverse in the nation because power within you that you cannot imag-
than a quality institution of higher we know that the truth is never learned if ine. His credentials and background are
education. It is a family. I knew that you only encounter people who think like stellar and are briefly summarized in this
when I initially met the people who are you do and that every person’s truth is sa- issue of HNU Today. Even more than that,
a part of Holy Names. I counted on it cred. This is an institution that is passion- he truly gets the quality of our family. In
as we envisioned, worked and delivered ate about making a positive difference for my interview with him, when I asked him
together. I have personally felt it as I others because we believe that we are part what would compel him to come to Holy
have been transformed and influenced of a world family and have responsibility Names, he responded: “the people.” At
in so many ways, similar to the influ- for each member. that moment, I was assured that he would
ence of my Lebanese biological family. be successful because he will trust you to
I am convinced that the family quality As I transition into the next stage of my help make him the most successful presi-
at Holy Names is a deep part of every own journey, I am fully confident that my dent that HNU has ever experienced.
student’s transformation and that our Holy Names family will always be a part
students develop to the heights of their of my life – as is my biological family. I I leave you with my deepest gratitude and
potentials because the HNU family be- will never forget all that I have learned my forever prayers,
lieves in them. It is the authentic Holy from you, how you have formed me and
Names catalyst—the added substance the confidence you give me in making this
that heightens every student’s educa- transition. You will be a part of everything
tional experience. that I do and influence going forward. I
assure you that my heart, my prayers and Rosemarie Nassif, SSND, PhD
Although I cannot take any credit for my spirit will always be a part of the great President
the theme of this issue of HNU Today, things that HNU achieves in the future.

2 LIBERATING MINDS  •  TRANSFORMING LIVES  •  SINCE 1868

MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 2 5/21/10 11:29 AM

 Holy Names University is a private, four-year,
co-ed, Catholic university located on 60 wooded
VOL. XXVII No.1
acres in the hills of Oakland, California. An academic
community committed to the full development of
each student, HNU offers a liberal education rooted
in the Catholic tradition, empowering a diverse
student body for leadership and service
S pring 2010 in a diverse world.

Contents
HNU Today strengthens the shared connection
among alumni, the University and the community.
The magazine is published two times a year for
the University’s alumni and friends by the Office of
Institutional Advancement. The diverse opinions

2 HNU Community Responds expressed in HNU Today do not necessarily rep-

resent the views of the editors or policies of Holy
to the Tragedy in Haiti Names University.
The University community united across
student clubs and organizations to rally Comments for the editor may be sent via e-mail to:
support for Haiti relief efforts. alumni@hnu.edu

4 An Evening with George

Or in writing to:

4
Holy Names University
Attn: Alumni Relations
Zimmer, CEO and Founder 3500 Mountain Boulevard
of The Men’s Wearhouse Oakland, CA 94619
 eorge Zimmer delivered a one-of-a-
G
Readers can also update your information online at:
kind presentation on business leader-
www.hnu.edu/alumni
ship and corporate success to a packed
audience of business students, alumni UNIVERSIT Y OFFICERS
and guests. Rosemarie Nassif, SSND, PhD, President
Dav Cvitkovic, Vice President for Institutional Advancement

7 New HNU President Stuart Koop, Vice President for Finance and Administration
Lizbeth Martin, Vice President for Academic Affairs

21
William J. Hynes, Ph.D., will become Michael Miller, Vice President for Student Affairs
Holy Names University’s 17th President Sr. Carol Sellman, Vice President for Mission Effectiveness
on August 1, 2010.  Dr. Hynes will
Alumni Executive Board President
succeed Sr. Rosemarie Nassif, SSND, Julie Echaniz ’75
Ph.D., who has served as HNU President Past Presidents Board President
for 11 years. Eileen M. Weston ’62

12

Family First
 Explore the transformative impact of
2
4
Student News
Campus News
HNU TODAY STAFF
This issue of HNU Today is directed and published by the
Office of Institutional Advancement:
the Holy Names University family experi-
8 Hawk Sports Center Executive Editor
ence from the lens of first generation Dav Cvitkovic
students and alumni families. 10 SNJM News Vice President for Institutional Advancement

18 12 Main Feature Editor

Student Center Dedication John R. McCoy
 Over one hundred alumni, university 14 Alumni News Director of Alumni Relations

friends, students, faculty and staff

gathered at the J.M. Long Foundation
17 Faculty News Contributing Writers
Sr. Maureen P. Hester ’65, SNJM
Student Lounge for the official blessing 18 Fundraising News Sara Linton
and dedication of the new Student Center. Carrie Rehak
20 Class Notes; In Memoriam J. Omar Sanchez ’04

21Tenure of Refoundation, Legacy 21 Last Word

Karen Schneider
Sr. Carol Sellman, ’69, ’78 MM, SNJM
of Leadership: Reflections on a On the Cover
Lesley Sims
Presidency Sr. Susan Wells, SNJM
The iconic McLean Chapel provides an ideal background for a collage of
S even members of the Holy Names Univer- images representing the HNU alumni, students and friends that make-up Design and Production
sity community reflect on President Nassif’s the Holy Names University family. Jen Slusser
transformative legacy. www.visualcv.com/jenslusser

SPRING 2010  |  HNU TODAY  1

MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 1 5/21/10 11:29 AM

 STUDENT NEWS

HNU Community Responds to the Tragedy in Haiti

E ver since the devastating news of the disaster in Haiti reached Holy
Names University, the campus community has been reaching out to
our brothers and sisters in need, through consciousness-raising, fundrais-
ing, and prayer. During the months of January and February, the cam-
pus gathered for a prayer service, and clubs and organizations launched a
campus-wide “Help Haiti Coin Drive.” The funds raised were matched
by an anonymous donor to achieve a grand total of $5101 raised.  founded the Teachers School in Papaye in Haiti twenty-six years
Our prayers, relief efforts, and educational opportunities continued
into March with FACE AIDS hosting a Haiti Relief Film Series
in honor of Global Women’s History, Resistance, and Activism.
In preparation for the Film Series, FACE AIDS leaders, Bridget
Vazquez ’12 put up an altar with pictures and prayers for Haiti in
the Lady Chapel. Students also assembled “Dolly Pins,” in order
to raise money for the Afternoon School at Riviere Froide, which
was destroyed in the earthquake, killing an estimated 150 students,
four teachers, and the school’s principal.
Barbara Wander, who launched the “Dolly Pin” project ten years
ago, spoke to HNU students regarding the tragedy in Haiti on
April 22. Barbara Wander works with Les Petites Soeurs de Ste.
Therese, an indigenous order of Haitian Sisters, who have forty-
two missions throughout Haiti. Many Sisters of  the Sisters of St
Theresa were educated as school teachers when the SNJM Sisters
ago. They have schools, clinics, hospitals, professional centers for
young women, orphanages, homes for the elderly, a teacher prepa-
ration center, farms, and programs for developmentally-challenged
children.  Since the earthquake, Barbara Wander has returned to
the U.S. to share this story and speak of the courage of the people of
Haiti, and to assist in raising funds for the rebuilding.  The HNU
community will continue to remember the Haitian people in our
thoughts and prayers. Below is a snapshot of the multiple efforts
taking place on the HNU campus in support of Haiti.

“When FACE AIDS found out that Haiti was hit by a 7.0 magnitude earthquake on January 12, 2010, we were all
shocked and devastated. Although the focus of FACE AIDS is to help provide treatment for the people in Rwan-
da, who are suffering from HIV/AIDS, Julie Veroff, the Executive Director of FACE AIDS emailed our chapter, at
Holy Names University, to inform us about Sterling Samos, a private investment firm dedicated to philanthropy
and public service. Sterling Samos has been extremely generous in pledging to match up to $50,000 for funds
raised by the FACE AIDS chapters for Partners in Health’s Haiti earthquake relief efforts. Our chapter has made
the best possible effort to raise not only funds but awareness on campus, by holding a couple of events: The Haiti
Prayer Service (with Campus Ministry, on January 26, 2010);  Education in Action: Haiti (January 27, 2010); Haiti
Relief Coin drive (with other campus constituents), and an upcoming film series. FACE AIDS will continue to take
donations as well as to contribute as much as possible to help out Haiti.  Just as Paul Farmer said ‘Clean water
and health care and school and food and tin roofs and cement floors, all of these things should constitute a set
of basics that people must have as birthrights.’” Bridget Vazquez ’12, FACE AIDS

“As soon as the news of Haiti’s devastating earthquake had been reported HNU’s Clubs and Organizations
leaped into action with intentions to raise awareness and funding for the relief effort.  Spear-headed by La-
tinos Unidos, multiple campus clubs and organizations came together and organized a campus-wide Coin
Drive for Haiti.  Students went to classes carrying labeled donation jars; similar jars were set up at the Resi-
dence Life Front Desk and the Student Success Center Front Desk, as well as in other campus departments and
offices.  The Raskob School’s eighth graders even held a bake sale and donated its proceeds to the Coin Drive. 
All in all, over $1,000 worth of coins were donated!  It was wonderful to see HNU students come together for
this worthy cause.” Sara Linton, Assistant Director of Campus Life

“At our prayer service, we gathered as one community, desiring to reach, comfort, and support another com-
munity: the people of Haiti—knowing that, regardless of distances, we are members of one family.  Through
our reflections, songs, and prayers, we lamented the catastrophic tragedies that our brothers and sisters are
experiencing.  In the midst of this chaos and anguish, we offer those who are suffering our hope and support
for the rebuilding of their lives.  We ask for continued blessings on and guidance for those who are offering
their services and relief in Haiti as well.  May we also be openhanded and openhearted to our brothers and
sisters in need.” Carrie Rehak, Director of Campus Ministry

2 LIBERATING MINDS  •  TRANSFORMING LIVES  •  SINCE 1868

MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 2 5/21/10 11:29 AM

 STUDENT NEWS

Patrick Turner to Participate in the 2010-2011 Red Cross/

NAIA Collegiate Leadership Program
H oly Names University
student, Patrick Turner,
was selected as one of 13 stu-
dent-athletes for the 2010-2011
Red Cross/NAIA Collegiate
Leadership Program. The pro-
gram focuses on inspiring and
developing a new generation of
American Red Cross volunteers
and leaders by exemplifying the
core values of the NAIA Cham-
pions of Character program:
Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Sportsmanship and Servant
Leadership. Sponsored by State Farm Insurance, the partnership
supports the Red Cross’ diversity initiatives.
The leadership program kicks off with two weeks of energetic train-
ing at the Red Cross National Headquarters located in Washington,
D.C. from June 7 to June 18. The incoming class will participate
in a rare and unique opportunity to acquire first-hand coaching,
mentoring and professional leadership training presented by Dr.
Rob Haworth, NAIA Vice President for Champions of Character
and one of the nation’s largest non-profit senior leaders.
This once-in-a-lifetime experience allows NAIA student-athletes to
be a part of a team made up of young adults from NAIA campuses
throughout the country. Student-athletes will learn from civic and
business leaders how to uncover their leadership potential off the
field. The participants will learn how to organize successful campus
blood drives, actively participate on a leadership board, and take
part in diversity and cultural competency training. For their ef-
forts, students will receive scholarship support provided by the Red
Cross and State Farm Insurance.
Patrick Turner, HNU sophomore and Men’s Basketball guard, will travel to Washington D.C. this June to
participate in the Red Cross/NAIA Collegiate Leadership Program.

2010 Quest Retreat: Community Building and Spiritual Reflection

N estled high in the hills above the town of Los Gatos is the
Villa Holy Names, home of the Sisters of the Holy Names
of Jesus and Mary. It was here, on the weekend of February 5-7,
that eleven undergraduate students, three graduate student lead-
ers, and six faculty/staff leaders were warmly welcomed for their
Quest Retreat. This weekend would be a special time and space, set
apart, off-campus, for undergraduate students to build community,
have an opportunity for spiritual reflection, and to create deeper
connections between students, the University community, and the
charism of the Holy Names Sisters—while being surrounded by
the overwhelming beauty of nature.
The talks and meditations of this Kairos-based retreat focused on
the person of Jesus and developing one’s relationship with Him.
Students were given journals for personal reflection. In addition “It was a fun experience learning about who you are and who God
to prayer and reflection, there was time for sharing in small groups is in your life.” (Monique Tsang ’13)
and with the entire group. Interspersed with these more serious ele-
“It showed me the importance of staying connected to my loved ones
ments were opportunities for cooking breakfast together (the group
and making connections with new people.” (Elizabeth Hogan ’11)
had delicious scrambled eggs and french toast each morning thanks
to several student chefs), making Valentine’s Day table tents for the “It’s a great way to meet people, make new friends, and get to know
Sisters’ dining room, and time for relaxation. Lunch and dinner yourself at a deeper and more personal level.” (Bridget Vazquez ’12)
were shared with the Sisters who live at Los Gatos and the students Each year since 2005 the Sisters of the Holy Names who minister
were pleased to meet them and hear about the Sisters’ experiences at HNU, in collaboration with the Director of Campus Ministry,
at Holy Names University. One student commented that, at her have returned to the tradition of offering student retreats. As you
first meal with the Sisters, “the first thing that I noticed was the can tell from their comments and the accompanying pictures, these
happy smile that each Sister had on her face. Being with the Sisters endeavors are beneficial and well-received.
gave me a touching feeling and it was such a great environment”
(Kathleen Dalere ’13). Other students had the following responses: Undergraduate students accompanied by graduate student leaders and faculty/staff participated in the 2010
Quest Retreat at the Villa Holy Names in Los Gatos.

SPRING 2010  |  HNU TODAY  3

MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 3 5/21/10 11:29 AM

 CAMPUS NEWS

HNU Hosts an Evening with George Zimmer,

CEO and Founder of The Men’s Wearhouse
Throughout the evening, Mr. Zimmer shared stories about his ca-
reer, wisdom from his early years as a young entrepreneur and the
corporate values of the Men’s Wearhouse. “Trust has been the key
to our business - not the commercials, not the merchandise, but
trust,” said Mr. Zimmer. He explained that the Men’s Wearhouse
started 36 years ago with $7,000 and is now a $1 billion company
employing 15,000 people in 1200 stores. In addition to following
basic ethical guidelines, the Men’s Wearhouse also has a corporate
code of ethics, and its own internal guidelines. Mr. Zimmer ex-
plained that this type of commitment builds trust with employees,
customers and other stakeholders.

Zimmer also explained the importance of respect for employees. This

value is demonstrated by encouraging managers to carefully listen to
employees and by asking for suggestions to solve problems. Extensive
training programs are also provided. The third value Mr. Zimmer
talked about was loyalty. A corollary to this value is: when possible,
employees are promoted from within; employees who have left the
company are allowed to return. Compassion is the fourth value of
the company. The “Willie Lopez” fund distributes money to employ-
ees who are having financial hardships. The fund is a grant that is
paid for by the employees. The general benefits of the company favor
the lowest paid employees. Mr. Zimmer concluded, “If employees
feel valued and important, then the bottom line is better.”

Mr. Zimmer is a long time friend and supporter of the HNU com-
munity. His contributions have supported the building of the Uni-
versity’s fitness center, the newly-renovated science facilities, the
student center and academic and athletic scholarships. In 2003 Mr.
Zimmer was the University’s graduation keynote speaker and was
awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.

Dr. Zimmer’s special presentation was taped and will be featured as

part of an upcoming documentary.

H oly Names University President, Sr. Rosemarie Nassif, welcomed

George Zimmer, CEO and Founder of the Men’s Wearhouse,
and long time HNU donor, to a packed audience of business students,
alumni, and guests on Wednesday, January 27. Mr. Zimmer delivered a
one-of-a-kind presentation on business leadership and corporate success.

In Sr. Rosemarie’s introduction, she pointed out that “George

Zimmer founded the Men’s Wearhouse in 1973 with his first store
in Houston, Texas. Now a $1-2 billion company, it’s frequently
rated by Forbes Magazine as one of the top 100 companies to work
for and has been ranked at least four times as one of the 400 best
big companies.”

above George Zimmer is a long time friend and supporter of the HNU community. He spoke to business
students, alumni and guests right in the newly renovated Student Center, to which he is a donor.

4 LIBERATING MINDS  •  TRANSFORMING LIVES  •  SINCE 1868

MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 4 5/21/10 11:29 AM

 CAMPUS NEWS

HNU Student Clubs: Community Engagement in Action

We’re proud of the many opportunities students receive through clubs and
organizations to develop leadership skills and provide real service to the
community. Throughout the 2009-2010 academic year, the University’s mul-
tiple clubs, including the three profiled below, have worked to actively
build awareness of HIV/AIDS, strengthen community relationships and fos-
ter students’ academic aspirations.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE

The Student Activities Committee (S.A.C.) strives to reach out to students and the local com-
munity to strengthen relationships and build a network for life. S.A.C’s mission is simple: to
create an active social group of students, foster networking and collaborative thinking, while
making friends. This past year S.A.C collaborated on a beach cleanup, a Santa Cruz camping
trip and two Tahoe ski/snowboarding trips.  Created by Enrollment Counselor & Outreach
Specialist Annie Wenzel, S.A.C is composed of traditional undergraduate, adult baccalau-
reate and graduate students. S.A.C’s President, Sophomore Nancy Murillo, holds monthly
lunch meetings in the J.M. Long Foundation Lounge to discuss volunteer opportunities and
exciting students retreats.

2+2 NURSING CLUB

The mission of HNU’s 2+2 Nursing Club is to support and further educate prospective and
current nursing students. The Club provides a recognizable group as a reference for people
with an interest and compassion for the pursuit of nursing. Participants utilize the club as
a networking tool and to connect with the greater campus community. The members have
taken part in many campus activities such as bake sales, the annual CORE festival and
even hosted a Halloween dance in the fall. Most importantly, the club works to ensure that
participants successfully complete HNU’s 2+2 Nursing program.

FACE A.I.D.S.
FACE AIDS is an international organization that is dedicated to mobilizing and inspiring
students to fight AIDS in Africa. This academic year the HNU FACE AIDS chapter hosted a
campus dialogue with the Executive Director of FACE AIDS, Julie Veroff and implemented
various fundraising events across the HNU campus community. Following the earthquake
in Haiti, the Club began working with other campus organizations in order to raise funds
for disaster relief. In addition, the chapter participated in the Haiti Prayer Service and hosted
an afternoon of education and reflection in order to better understand the socio-economic
reality in Haiti. Other events included a film series in honor of Women’s Global Activism
and Resistance during March, Women’s History month, and the co-sponsoring of Barbara
Walker’s visit to HNU on April 22.

top S.A.C. members pose for the camera following a day of hitting the slopes in Tahoe middle Three Nursing Club members provide
information at the Clubs & Organizations Fair bottom Two members of HNU traveled to a FACE AIDS conference in Oregon where they
were inspired by people who dedicate their lives to fighting HIV/AIDS.

SPRING 2010  |  HNU TODAY  5

MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 5 5/21/10 11:29 AM

 CAMPUS NEWS

Week-long Program Raises Campus Awareness

of Hunger and Homelessness
A ccording to the National Law Center on
Homelessness and Poverty, approximately
3.5 million people, 1.35 million of them chil-
dren, are likely to experience homelessness
in any given year. Hunger and Homelessness
Week, a national event introduced to Holy
Names University in 2007, is a week-long
series of programs to help raise awareness,
funding, and resources for local families com-
bating hunger and homelessness. This year
Holy Names University partnered with lo-
cal organizations like the Alameda County
Food Bank and One Warm Coat to help make
the same day, campus dinning services and Campus Life hosted
Hunger and Homelessness Week a success. Students began gearing
a Waste Weigh-In during breakfast, lunch, and dinner. From all
up for the week at the beginning of November by putting on fund-
three meals, those who ate in the Public Market produced 289lbs of
raising programs such as No Shave November (male students went
garbage. On Wednesday, November 19th Campus Life hosted the
without shaving their faces for a month and their peers put money
2nd Annual Chili for Charity Cook-off and raised over $200 for
in specially marked bins supporting their favorite participant) to
the Alameda County Food Bank. These, in addition to the other
benefit the Alameda County Food Bank, and a clothing drive to
programs during Hunger and Homelessness Week, left a lasting
benefit San Francisco’s One Warm Coat.
impression on all those who participated.
On Tuesday, November 18th, students in the Peer Mentoring Pro-
Hunger and Homeless Week came to a grand conclusion during the
gram, along with Sister Susan Wells, hosted an Oxfam Hunger
2009 Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday, November 19th. About
Banquet in the Bay Vista Room. The Banquet allowed students to
40 tables of HNU students, staff, faculty, alumni and trustees filled
experience what others who are less fortunate go through during
the Public Market to give thanks for the community’s many bless-
the holiday season when faced with limited resources for food. On
ings. All in all, Hunger and Homelessness Week was a great success
topped off by a wonderful meal.

In many ways, Hunger and Homelessness Week ties into the Uni-
versity’s social justice and civic engagement mission and the mis-
sion of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary. Students
and staff alike were encouraged to attend and participate in the
many activities throughout the week and to share their thoughts
and feelings during reflection sessions following the various pro-
grams. Since Hunger and Homelessness Week, the HNU com-
munity has continued to raise awareness and support for those
less fortunate than themselves. Food, toiletry, and coin drives
have swept the campus, as have other opportunities to partici-
pate in community service, charity walks, and cultural events. As
Campus Life looks ahead to the next academic year, we know that
Hunger and Homelessness Week’s potential to impact the HNU
community can be greater than ever before.

top HNU community gathered in the University’s Public Market for the grand conclusion to the campus-
wide Hunger and Homelessness Week campaign, the Annual Thanksgiving Dinner celebration. left
Hunger and Homelessness Week’s 2nd Annual Chili for Charity Cook-off raised over $200 for the Alameda
County Food Bank.

6 LIBERATING MINDS  •  TRANSFORMING LIVES  •  SINCE 1868

MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 6 5/21/10 11:29 AM

 Dear Friends of Holy Names University,
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I am pleased to announce that William J.
Hynes, Ph.D., will become Holy Names University’s 17th President on August
1, 2010. Dr. Hynes will succeed Sr. Rosemarie Nassif, SSND, Ph.D., who has
served as HNU’s president for 11 years.
On the morning of Thursday, April 22, the Board of Trustees voted to accept
Dr. Hynes’ nomination by the Presidential Search Committee. The unanimous
vote reflects our deep confidence in Dr. Hynes’ ability to articulate and exem-
plify the University’s mission. This final recommendation was approved by the
Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary.
Dr. Hynes has had a distinguished academic career and has exceptional ad-
ministrative and leadership skills. His record of achievement, his ideals for aca-
demic excellence and his respect for the values of the Sisters of the Holy Names
of Jesus and Mary makes him uniquely qualified to serve as HNU’s President.
He inherits an institution with a positive financial footing that is primed for
a new level of growth and development. The five-year strategic plan, imple-
mented in 2007, has been instrumental in the University reaching its goals in
measureable timelines and steps.
Dr. Hynes will continue to meet the goals of the strategic plan and will insure
that the values of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary are woven
into the fabric of new programs and initiatives. His breadth of experience in
fundraising and fiscal management will serve the University well as he under-
takes financial campaigns to build HNU’s endowment and provide funds for
expanding academic programs and needed facilities. His background in devel-
oping rapport with students and creating an exciting campus life will greatly
enrich the Holy Names experience.
The Board of Trustees believes Dr. Hynes is eminently qualified for this job. I
know that each of you will enjoy meeting with him when he arrives on campus
and working with him in building an even greater Holy Names University.
Respectfully,
Ronald V. Rosequist, JD
Chairman, Board of Trustees
MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 7
D r. William J. Hynes
is a distinguished
teacher, scholar, and edu-
cational leader. He holds
the Ph.D. and M.A. from
the University of Chicago
in the History of Chris-
tian Thought, another
M.A. in Catholic Theology from Marquette University, his
BA from Conception College, and Certificates from both
Harvard University and the University of Geneva. A year-
long NEH Fellowship at the University of North Carolina
at Chapel Hill allowed him to work with Charles Long, a
pre-eminent scholar of African-American religious history.
Dr. Hynes has served successfully as President of St.
Norbert College in De Pere, Wisconsin, Vice-President
of Academic Affairs at St. Mary’s College of California,
and Dean of the College at Regis University in Denver,
Colorado. He has held faculty appointments at all these
institutions and taught undergraduates and graduate
students for more than 20 years. Hynes is the author of
three books. He is concluding work on a fourth book on
the Principles of Entrepreneurship based upon interviews
with 25 entrepreneurs. His previous book, Mythical
Trickster Figures with William Doty, was cited by The
Times Literary Supplement as “an admirable successor”
to Paul Radin’s classic study.
Dr. Hynes and his spouse, Margie Shurgot Hynes, are
well-known to the San Francisco Bay Area community,
where they resided from 1990 to 2000. While in the Bay
Area, Ms. Shurgot held executive fundraising positions
with the San Francisco Symphony, the Campaign to Re-
store the War Memorial Opera House, and California
College of the Arts.
For a complete vitae of Dr. Hynes, see www.hnu.edu/
president/hynesBio.html
5/21/10 11:29 AM
 HAWK SPORTS CENTER
HNU Hawks Give Back
H oly Names University athletic teams are widely recognized
throughout the community and beyond for their exemplary
performance. This academic year alone, the HNU Athletic pro-
gram added 5 California Pacific Conference Championships to
the University’s growing list of athletic achievements (the Women’s
Softball team and the Hawk’s #4 ranked Men’s Golf team are both
still in play). The Hawks’ accomplishments including 24 Academic
All-Americans and 30 NAIA National Tournament Appearances
reflects the Hawks’ dedication to modeling sportsmanship, lead-
ership and academic excellence. Yet, in addition to juggling the
academic demands of collegiate life and the pressure of competing
for regional and national titles, HNU athletes consistently find the
time to give back. Throughout the year, the Hawks embraced the
University’s mission of leadership and service by supporting com-
munity engagement opportunities such as the national Haiti Relief
campaign and local breast cancer awareness efforts.
The Women’s Softball team launched the Hawks’ community
service efforts for the 2009-2010 season by volunteering with the
Faith Fancher 5k Breast Cancer Challenge around Lake Merritt in
September. The Challenge benefited Friends of Faith, a local non-
profit organization that funds programs for underserved and un-
derinsured women with breast cancer. Throughout the event, the
participating Hawks helped to raise awareness and funds by enthu-
siastically staffing water stations to support the 600 Breast Cancer
Challenge walkers and runners. Throughout the month of October,
all fall sports continued the Hawks’ commitment to breast cancer
awareness by sporting pink HNU Hawk jersey throughout Breast
Cancer Awareness month.
On Sunday, September 6th, 2009, the HNU Women’s Soccer team
continued the Hawks’ community engagement efforts by volun-
8 LIBERATING MINDS  •  TRANSFORMING LIVES  •  SINCE 1868
MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 8
teering at the 4th Annual Verizon Wireless Youth Soccer Clinic at
Pal Stadium in San Jose. The Women’s Soccer team contributed by
serving as youth coaches during the soccer clinic which also fea-
tured retired Columbian soccer star, Carlos “El Pibe” Valderram.
The Hawks participation in the event helped serve over 376 His-
panic families with children between the age of 4 and 17. Verizon
Wireless’ sponsorship of the event enabled the participating youth
to return home with free soccer balls, jerseys, water bottles, auto-
graph paraphernalia and fond memories of the soccer drills and
instruction they received from our very own HNU Hawks and the
other participating soccer professionals.
The Hawks commitment to com-
munity involvement, on and off
campus, is a constant element of
the HNU Athletic program. Dur-
ing the month of November, dur-
ing all games, the Hawks collected
over 400lbs of food to contribute
to the campus-wide Hunger and
Homelessness Week Awareness
campaign. Lastly, throughout the
fall, the Men’s Golf team contin-
ued the Hawks community efforts
by volunteering with the Alameda
Jr. Golf program and local food
kitchens on multiple weekends.
In the wake of the catastrophic
January 12th earthquake in Haiti,
the Hawks joined the HNU com-
munity response by raising funds
at home games to support the Red Cross’ Haiti relief fund. “It was
terrific to see individuals willing to help with whatever they had
available, a lot of funds given were from students themselves. Not
just our own students but visiting students who had come to sup-
port their teams as they visited HNU” said Dennis Jones, HNU
Director of Athletics and Recreation.   Starting with the Hawks’
opening weekend Men’s Volleyball game on January 22nd and con-
tinuing throughout the winter athletic season at all home games,
the HNU Hawks helped the campus raise $5101 towards Haiti re-
lief efforts. According to Dennis Jones, the Hawks efforts on behalf
of Haiti in many ways reflects “what the Sisters of the Holy Names
are about; not only the victories inside the gymnasium, but more
important are the victories outside the HNU walls.”
At HNU, the Hawks are truly champions of character, not only
for their athletic and academic achievements, but their year around
dedication and support for community engagement activities that
build awareness across the HNU community and beyond.
Athletes at Holy Names University do more than win championships. They are champions of service too.
5/21/10 11:29 AM
 HAWK SPORTS CENTER

Coach Nick Lusson Named NAIA Western Region Coach of the Year

H oly Names University is proud to announce that Nick Lus-

son, head Women’s Soccer coach, has been voted the 2009
National Soccer Coaches Association of America NAIA Western
Region Coach of the Year. Coach Lusson was formally acknowl-
edged for his achievements at the NSCAA National Coaching
Convention in Philadelphia in mid-January. The award comes on
the heels of his recent honors as the 2009 California Pacific Confer-
ence Coach of the Year.
With the conclusion of the fall 2009 semester, Coach Lusson com-
pleted his second season with the Hawks with an impressive 10-9
record. The 2009 squad had a banner season, winning the Cal-
Pac Conference championship and becoming semi-finalists in the
team’s first ever appearance in the NAIA National Tournament.
Coach Lusson has certainly had a major impact on the wom-
a renewed spirit and winning desire. His charisma along with his
en’s soccer program at Holy Names University. Since his arrival
psychology and coaching experience brought the group together as a
on campus in 2007, Coach Lusson has grown the women’s soc-
family, which has been reflected on the field with teammates playing
cer team from eight players to a twenty-five player squad featur-
for each other rather than for their own personal success.”
ing top-level recruits from the Bay Area, Southern California, out
Coach Lusson holds a USSF “A” license, as well as three Master’s De-
grees in Sport Psychology, Sport Management, and Exercise & Sport
Performance. In addition to his position at Holy Names, Coach Lus-
son is the Technical Director for the nearby Dublin United Soccer
League, Staff Coach for the Nor-Cal State ODP team, a Coaching
Educator for both California Youth Soccer and the Positive Coaching
Alliance. He currently lives with his wife of 3 years in San Ramon.

above Nick Lusson, head Women’s Soccer coach, has been voted the 2009 National Soccer Coaches Association
of America NAIA Western Region Coach of the Year. left 2009 Women’s Soccer team and coaches.

Congratulation to our 2009-2010 Hawks

of state students and a handful of international students. When for their accomplishments on the field
asked about the significance of his new Coach of the Year title, and in the community:
Coach Lusson iterates that his success as a coach “was not done in
a vacuum” and gives much credit to the highly committed and well
bonded players on his squad, as well as the excellence and dedica- 2009 – 2010
tion of his assistant coaches. CALIFORNIA PACIFIC CHAMPION TEAMS
Coach Lusson recognition came as no surprise to the players and
assistant coaching staff working under his leadership. When soph- Men’s Basketball
omore player Britta Sadeghy ’12 heard the news, she immediately Women’s Basketball
became excited, commenting that “Coach Nick deserves the recog- Men’s Soccer
nition for his hard work and dedication”. Former Assistant Coach
Ricardo Marquez ’07 shares Britta’s sentiments, stating “Coach Women’s Soccer
Nick has turned around the Women’s Soccer program from head Men’s Cross Country
to toe. He has developed a highly competitive team and injected

SPRING 2010  |  HNU TODAY  9

MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 9 5/21/10 11:29 AM

 SNJM NEWS
Sr. Susan Wells Reports on Historic SNJM Young Sisters
Forum in Lesotho, Africa!
I n January, Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary from
around the Congregation gathered in Lesotho, Africa for an his-
toric Young Sisters Forum. The forum, which lasted five days, was
attended by nearly 50 sisters who are 50 years of age and younger.
The youngest is 21 and serves in Lesotho! The forum was historic
because this was the first ever gathering of younger sisters from
around the congregation who are serving in Lesotho, Peru, South
Africa, Canada, Brazil and the United States.
During the forum, we shared stories of our experiences of commu-
nity as we were growing up and about our call as SNJM’s and how
we are living out that call in our respective countries. We talked
about the realities of religious life today (fewer women choosing
religious life) and what that means for our SNJM community. We
celebrated the richness of our diversity, and learned about each
other’s cultures through song, dance and storytelling!
We formed bonds of friendship that will grow stron-
ger, despite the miles that separate us. For we found
that the ties that unite us, our SNJM Charism, our
SNJM Core Values and our rich heritage as daughters
of Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher, are much stronger
than the distance that separates us.
For me personally, the experience of being immersed
in the culture of the Basotho people was an enrich-
ing experience. I had the opportunity to see young boys and girls
travelling for miles carrying 50 pound bags of corn by donkey or
by wheelbarrow to the mill to be ground to provide food for their
families. I saw many women working in the fields, tending their
crop of corn, relying on the rains to help it grow. And I saw young
men and boys herding the sheep and cattle, a way of life centuries
old, but still so important for survival in 2010!
Without a doubt, the most enriching part of the trip was the op-
portunity to visit some of the sisters’ ministry sites, to see the amaz-
10 LIBERATING MINDS  •  TRANSFORMING LIVES  •  SINCE 1868
MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 10
ing work the sisters are doing in both the cities and the villages of
Lesotho. We visited the village of Sekamaneng, where our young
sisters started an HIV/AIDS outreach ministry. Here, people who
are suffering from HIV/AIDS come to receive emotional support,
attend workshops on living with HIV/AIDS, and learn how to grow
sustainable agricultural products that will provide food and a small
income for their families. They also receive some food assistance. The
Sisters also work with the children who have been orphaned by the
HIV/AIDS epidemic. There are eleven of our young professed sisters
who work on this project and serve in many of the nearby villages.
While we were in Lesotho, we had the privilege of meeting many of the
women and men who participate in the Sekamaneng Village Project
where pigs and chicken are grown to raise money to support the proj-
ect and also to provide food for the participants. We also visited the
homes of those who were too sick to come to the community center for
the food distribution. We prayed with them and also delivered a small
pork roast, three small bags of rice, two bottles of ketchup and a few
articles of clothing! We were received with the trademark, gracious
hospitality of the Basotho people. We left each home feeling blessed
and grateful for the amazing work our sisters are doing there.
Yes, life for the Basotho people is hard! But their spirit of resilience is
strong! They are a people who love to sing, love to dance and love to
gather to celebrate life! As the Bishop shared during an SNJM Jubilee
Mass celebrating the anniversary of vows of the sisters, which was filled
with singing and dancing in the beautiful tradition of the Basotho
people, “As long as the sun is shining there is still time to celebrate!”
The Center for Social Justice is beginning a fundraising campaign
to help the HIV/AIDS Project in Sekamaneng to purchase a trac-
tor. This will enable them to plow the participants’ fields for plant-
ing and also to raise money for the project by plowing other fields
for hire! If you would like to learn more about our SNJM minis-
tries in Lesotho or how you can help support our ministries there,
please contact Sister Susan Wells in the Center for Social Justice at:
wells@hnu.edu or 510.436.1280.
top Sisters of the Holy Names gathered in Lesotho. top left A little girl who received some gifts. left SNJM Sisters
delivered food and clothes to participants in the HIV/AIDS Project.
5/21/10 11:29 AM
 SNJM NEWS

Community Based Learning: SNJM Core Values

Enhance Learning and Serve the Community
Since the program existence, HNU has
placed students from CBL courses, as well
as those who just want to serve as a volun-
teer, with a variety of community partners,
including: The Oakland Catholic Worker,
St. Vincent DePaul Society of Alameda
County, St. Martin De Porres School, The
Alameda County District Attorney’s Victim
and Witness Services Office, CoCo Cor-
ner, CA (founded by HNU alumna Helen
Raines ’04), The Unity Council, The Amer-
ican Red Cross, Raskob Learning Institute,
St. Mary’s Preschool and Senior Center and
many other schools and organizations who
are serving the greater East Bay area.

If you are connected with an organiza-

tion that you think might benefit from a
collaborative relationship with the Center
for Social Justice at HNU? Please contact
Sister Susan Wells, SNJM with your ideas

A t HNU, the values and mission of the Sisters of the Holy

Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) shape the academic, so-
cial and civic development of HNU students. Through programs
at: wells@hnu.edu or call 510.436.1280.
Students stand in front of the Lorraine Hotel in Memphis. The hotel is the location of Dr. Martin Luther King’s
assination and now serves as a Civil Rights Museum. Students are able to experience service as well as history
like Community Based Learning (CBL), students gain real world when they serve in the alternative Spring Break in Tutwiler, Mississippi.
experiences that complement the traditional classroom while also
engaging in opportunities to embrace SNJM values throughout lo-
cal community service work. CBL Courses include an element of
12-15 hours of volunteer service with a Community Partner, which
helps students integrate what they are learning in the classroom to a On Saturday, April 10th at St. Mary’s
real life work environment. Throughout the academic year, HNU’s Church in Los Gatos the Sisters of the
SNJM Sisters and staff at the Center for Social Justice work directly Holy Names of Jesus and Mary rejoiced
with HNU faculty members to identify and place students in vol-
unteer positions with community partners in need of additional with their Golden Jubilarians, all of whom
support. CBL has a special focus on collaboration with community are alumnae of Holy Names University.
partners whose mission is closely aligned with HNU’s and with the
Core Values of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary:
Sister Kathleen Callaway ’66
• Full Development of the Human Person Sister Rosemary Delaney ’66
• Education in the Faith
Sister Anne Dinneen ’65
• Hospitality
• Dedication to Women and Children Sister Carol Nicklas ’64
• Dedication to Justice
Sister Barbara Nixon ’67
• Service to People who are Poor or Marginalized
Sister Della Stanton ’58
• Commitment to Liberating Action
• Love for the Names of Jesus and Mary Sister Domenica Maria Valle ’66
SPRING 2010  |  HNU TODAY  11

MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 11 5/21/10 11:29 AM

 FEATURE

FAMILY FIRST

ACROSS THE COUNTRY, FIRST-GENERATION COLLEGE STUDENTS
(FIRST-GENS) FACE A UNIQUE SET OF CHALLENGES THAT DIFFER
FROM THE EXPERIENCE OF STUDENTS WHO COME FROM FAMILIES
WHERE COLLEGE EXPECTATIONS ARE CONSIDERED THE NORM. UN-
LIKE THEIR COUNTERPARTS, FIRST-GENS ARE FOUR TIMES AS LIKELY
TO DROPOUT WITHIN THEIR FIRST YEAR. IN A RECENT ARTICLE, USA
TODAY REPORTED THAT “30% OF ENTERING FRESHMEN IN THE USA
ARE FIRST-GENERATION COLLEGE STUDENTS AND 24% ARE BOTH
FIRST-GENERATION AND LOW INCOME. NATIONALLY, 89% OF LOW-
INCOME FIRST-GENS LEAVE COLLEGE WITHIN SIX YEARS WITHOUT A
DEGREE.” CONSIDERED “AT RISK” IN TERMS OF SUCCESS THROUGH
GRADUATION, LOW INCOME FIRST-GENS OFTEN SUCCUMB TO A
HOST OF OVERWHELMING FACTORS RANGING FROM FINANCIAL
NEED TO NOT FULLY UNDERSTANDING WHAT TO EXPECT FROM
THEMSELVES AND THEIR COLLEGE EXPERIENCE. THESE STUDENTS
LACK THE SUPPORTIVE FAMILY FOUNDATION TO HELP THEM SUC-
CESSFULLY NAVIGATE COLLEGE LIFE. AT HOLY NAMES UNIVERSITY,
OUR “FAMILY FIRST” APPROACH TO THE COLLEGIATE EXPERIENCE
LEVELS THE PLAYING FIELD FOR FIRST-GENERATION STUDENTS
WHILE CONTINUING TO PROVIDE THE NURTURING YET RIGOROUS
ACADEMIC ENVIRONMENT THAT GENERATIONS OF ALUMNI FAMI-
LIES LOVE AND EXPECT FROM THE UNIVERSITY.

A lumni families know first-hand the transformative impact of

the Holy Names University experience. When the time came
for Lorraine Jolivet BA ’95, MBA ‘97 to assist her daughter, Mi-
fessors wanted me to succeed at school and made sure I received the
help I needed to do so. Sr. Ethel Tinnemann was hard core, but you
knew when you walked into her class that you would learn and that
chelle, in selecting a college, Lorraine directed Michelle to her alma she cared about you as a member of the Holy Names family.”
mater, Holy Names University. A graduate of the University’s Adult
Baccalaureate Program (previously Weekend College or WECO), Lorraine recently retired from a corporate human resource career
Lorraine wanted Michelle to experience the same supportive envi- spanning over 25 years. She credits the seven years she spent at
ronment that helped her to achieve her academic dreams. “I wanted Holy Names earning a Bachelors
Michelle to have the experience of living on campus. She was
scared to death of being away from home, but I knew she needed
a period of independence. I knew Holy Names could be her ex-
tended family. Like an extended family, all my professors were
willing to assist me in any way necessary to assure that I would be
successful”, recalls Lorraine. Based on her own familiarity with
HNU, Lorraine was confident that Michelle would grow person-
ally and succeed academically as a traditional HNU student.

According to both mother and daughter, Michelle thrived at

HNU. As Lorraine expected, HNU provided Michelle with a
rich collegiate experience, fostering her development within a safe
family oriented academic environment. The Sisters and faculty at
HNU encouraged and challenged Michelle to achieve her greatest
potential as a student; as Michelle recalls, “all the Sisters and pro-

12 LIBERATING MINDS  •  TRANSFORMING LIVES  •  SINCE 1868

MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 12 5/21/10 11:29 AM


of Arts, and later a Masters of Business Administration, for
advancing her career. When asked about their fondest Holy
Names University memory, mother and daughter both reply
“graduation”. In May of 1997, Lorraine and Michelle had the
ultimate alumni family experience. On the same day that
Lorraine received her Holy Names University MBA, Mi-
chelle received her Bachelor’s of Arts degree.
The dramatic transformation a student undergoes while at
HNU is not an isolated occurrence reserved just for alum-
ni families. While alumni families are acutely aware of HNU’s
unique family oriented environment, first-generation students also
benefit and often make bigger strides in terms of actualizing their
full potential than other students who enter college with more re-
sources and better support systems. At HNU, 50% of our students
are the first in their families to attend college and approximately
50% fall within the Federal Government designation as not having
sufficient economic resources for college.
From the moment first-generation students step foot on campus,
the odds are stacked against them. Missing from these students’
collegiate reality is the supportive network of family role models
that understand the value and importance of a college degree. First-
generation students may have initial apprehensions about college life
and need guidance in order to help build confidence when they falter
or hit pot holes along the way. The intimate, caring and encouraging
environment Holy Names University creates for students allows the
University to provide the support first-generation students need to
get back on track, find help and get advice.
In 2006, first-generation HNU alumna, Helen Raines ’04, launched
CoCo Corner, an Oakland based nonprofit organization that works
to inspire youth throughout Oakland to achieve their educational
goals. Originally conceived as a daycare center for teen mothers,
CoCo Corner’s programming provides a myriad of social services
to help troubled youth, in addition to teen mothers and fathers,
transition into adulthood. A stringent believer in the old proverb “it
takes a village to raise a child”, Helen’s efforts aim to counter high
risk behavior amongst teens by providing a family oriented environ-
ment that strongly emphasizes goal setting, educational guidance,
economic mentoring and other essential positive social development
interactions at risk youth may miss out on.
Helen’s drive to provide guidance to youth throughout Oakland
is largely influenced by her own experience as a teenage mother.
When Helen was 16 she became pregnant. Lacking support from
her parents, Helen moved out of her parents’ home while in high
school. A straight “A” student, Helen successfully graduated prior
to giving birth to her daughter and had a strong desire to pursue
college studies, but was led to believe that higher education was not
within the grasp of a teenage mother. Helen recalls experiencing an
overwhelming sense of shame and isolation from the adult figures
in her life. Like several teenage mothers in similar predicaments,
Helen struggled on her own to provide for both herself and her
daughter; often times working two to three jobs to pay for childcare
and to keep food on the table.
MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 13
FEATURE
It was not until Helen turned 35 that she dis-
covered the courage and self confidence to pur-
sue higher education and take control of the di-
rection of her life and professional career. While
working two jobs, Helen graduated with honors
from community college and went on to apply,
gain acceptance to and enroll in Holy Names
University’s Adult Baccalaureate Program. In
2004 Helen became the first in her family to
earn a Bachelor’s Degree.
Helen credits her experience at Holy Names University for help-
ing her begin a “whole new road” in life. The academic structure
of the Adult Baccalaureate program made it possible for Helen to
continue working to provide for her family, while simultaneously
providing the opportunity to achieve her educational goals. The
boost in self confidence Helen experienced during her time at Holy
Names University provided her with the motivation and self-es-
teem to share her story and pursue the launching of CoCo Corner
as a means to inspire and educate young adults with similar experi-
ences to pursue higher education and their dreams.
With every commencement, the University sends forth and pol-
linates the world with HNU graduates who are equipped intel-
lectually and morally to meet the challenges of our times. All of
our graduates, regardless of their realities prior to arriving at Holy
Names, are transformed and challenged to achieve their greatest
potential. The ties that bind the HNU experience, the experience
of family, the experience of nurturing guidance, the experience of a
supportive push to be your best, the “family first” experience, is the
foundation that fosters and cultivates the dreams and aspirations of
past, present and future HNU alumni for a lifetime.
left Lorraine and Michelle had the ultimate alumni family experience. On the same day that Lorraine received
her Holy Names University MBA, Michelle received her Bachelor’s of Arts degree. above center Helen Raines-
Austin ’04, was a first generation student and credits her experience at Holy Names University for helping her
begin a “whole new road” in life. above Helen Raines-Austin ’04 participates in the 2010 Alumni Career Mixer
with current HNU students.
SPRING 2010  |  HNU TODAY  13
5/21/10 11:29 AM
 ALUMNI NEWS

Homecoming 2009
O ver 180 HNU Alumni from as far as New York State and Peru
returned to HNU to celebrate Homecoming 2009.
The 36th Annual Alumni Awards Ceremony, held on Friday, October
9th, opened Homecoming weekend by honoring the achievements of
outstanding HNU alumni. This year’s award ceremony parted from pre-
vious productions by featuring a video salute to Special Alumni Award
recipient, Dr. Carol Sellman, SNJM BA ’69, MA ’78. The night’s hon-
orees also included:
Faculty Award recipient Dr. Miriam Daniel Fahey, SNJM ’48, Alumni
Recognition Award recipient Nga Do ’98, Alumni Recognition Award
recipient Rita Ruderman BSN ’98 MSN ’01, Alumni Recognition
Award recipients The Class of 1951.
Homecoming festivities continued early on Saturday, October 10th with
alumni gathering in Founders’ Hall to reminisce in the company of old
friends before starting the day’s events. Alumni were treated to morning
tours of the new J. M. Long Foundation Lounge in Brennan Hall be-
fore congregating in McLean Chapel for Homecoming Mass. For many,
Homecoming Mass was the first opportunity for alumni and friends of
the University to worship in the newly renovated McLean Chapel.
Following Mass, the festivities continued with the traditional Cham-
pagne and Strawberries Reception. The day’s festivities concluded
with the All Alumni Luncheon where the Alumni Executive Board
led a special tribute to the Class of ’59 and their 50th anniversary
celebration by distributing to each ’59 class member a commemora-
tive 50th Anniversary pin.

Class of 1959
Back Row, L to R Arlene Rhine, Joan Pallotta Petruzelli, Pat O’Brien Roemer, Eleanor 1959
Dobbins Schooley, Kathleen Valerio Chinchiols, Carolyn Hand Tamony, Pat Hayes Wieg-
mann, Anne Sanchez Fleming, Carol Hubert, Helen Kramm Camacho, Sharon Basliani
Levaggi, Leonora Gillard Sleeter, Sister Genie Rohner, Gerri O’Malley, Mary Jane Britton
Muslin and Arlette Manders. Front Row- sitting- L to R Narine Pene Keeley, Dolores
Ghilarducci Murphy, Carolyn Gelhaus Martinez, Geanne Mulgrew, Dolores Robinson
DePaoli, Penny Gancos Fite, Barabara Hayes Schmitz.

Class of 1949
Back Row, L to R Catherine Muns McCormick, Billie Jean McElroy Durst, Janet Hilken Sullivan.

Class Of 1969
Front Row, L to R Gail Priestley, Laura Mendes Moore, Niki Yoshinaga, Carol Costa Mahoney 1949
Second Row, L to R Gaytha Hopgood McPherson, Margaret Kelly Vinson, Agnes Bray Free-
man Simon Third Row, L to R Kathleen Kasivouski Lovel, Karen Scopazi Raccanello, Carol
Solis Fourth Row, L to R Annett Franz Sheehy, Mary Ann Dunn Piskeea, Chris Bottarini Ra-
mezzano, Anna Cardinalli, Dorthoy Letcher Beatty Fifth Row, L to R Katie Devereux, Trudie
Mathiesen, Marylyn Farber Padley Sixth Row, L to R Sussan Kellogg Kriste, Irene Bergamini.

Class of 1979
Back Row, L to R Rita Bedoya Shue, Anna Miranda Front Row, L to R Rosa Linda Tejada,
Barbara Prack, Judith Ann Lutenske.

Class of 1964
Top Row Bernice (Deal) Rowe, Carole (Cruz) Jobe, Kathy (Marcone) Carrasco, Linda (Ra-
1969
mezzano) Story, Barbara (Schuster) Dale, Elaine (Gonsalves) Johnson, Monica (Klimas)
Peiffer, Anne (Haviland) Ruona 6th Row Judy (Botelho) Cain, Michael (Powel) Call,
Linda Orrick SNJM 5th Row Kathy (Barry) Galli, Jerry (Williamson) Martinez, Elaine
(Cislini) Benoit, Ellen (Murphy) Oicles, Carol Fleitz SNJM 4th Row Linda (Dutch Schultz)
Petri, Carol Nicklas SNJM, Melanie (Melewicz) Blaha 3rd Row Dolores Barling SNJM,
Jean (Perry) Rubin, Pat (Lundy) Wipf, Trish (McLoughlin) McMahon, Carol (Zamora)
Small 2nd Row Kathy (Cummings) Jordan, Joyce (Ramacciotti) Quinn, Lynda (Oggie
Ogburn) Cadman, Katie Gray, Kathy (Faherty) Recupero, Bonnie Corrie Bottom Row Bea
(Auza) Moore, Pat Taormino, Kathy (Kusters) Herrington, Claire (Dovichi) Simi, Linda
(Bellini) Howson, Alica (Graham) Jones, Grayce Ross SNJM

14 LIBERATING MINDS  •  TRANSFORMING LIVES  •  SINCE 1868

MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 14 5/21/10 11:29 AM

 Class of 1974
Holy Names University
L to R Janis Chew Jang, Barry Costa, Linda J. Serdahl, Dolores L. Bielle (Orr), Marilyn Finch ÜÇok 2010 Alumni Awards
Class of 1954
Back Row, L to R Marianne McLoughlin, Dorinne Ricci, Pat Ham, Rosemarie Facchini Front Row,
Make your nomination today!
L to R Nancy Moran Buckley, Maxine Garin Thayer, Angela Musco Putkey

1979 2010 Nomination Form

The Holy Names University Alumni Association recog-
nizes exceptional faculty and alumni on an annual basis.
Faculty are recognized for outstanding service to the Uni-
versity. Alumni are recognized for outstanding achieve-
ment in a profession, exceptional service to the Church or
the community, or outstanding volunteer service to the
Alumni Association and the University.

Please nominate a deserving professor or member of the

Alumni Association in recognition of his/her service, dedica-
tion and achievements. You may make copies of this form to
fax or mail to the Alumni Association.
1964 Thank you.

My Name

Address

City/State/Zip Code

Phone E-mail

Name of Nominee

STATEMENT OF SUPPORT
1974 Please prepare a statement or attach the following:
• A listing of the nominee’s outstanding contributions or
achievements
• Professional and/or volunteer activities and recognition
• Letters of support

1954
✁

Fax to: (510) 436-1233

Mail to: Alumni Relations, HNU, 3500 Mountain Blvd.,
Oakland, CA 94619
E-mail to: alumni@hnu.edu

MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 15 5/21/10 11:29 AM

 ALUMNI NEWS
HNU Launches New Tradition: Nurse Alumni Reunion 2010
T he Alumni Relations Office hosted its first Nurse Alumni Re-
union on Saturday, March 27th, launching a new HNU tradition
for years to come. The returning alumni could not have asked for a
more beautiful day to visit with their alma mater. With the spring sun
and blue sky lightly coat-
ing the Oakland Hills,
the festive event kicked off
with HNU’s traditional
Champagne & Strawber-
ries reception. Over 50
nurse alumni, represent-
ing graduates from the
past three decades attend-
ed the one of kind event.
Following introductory remarks in which Sr. Rosemarie, President
of Holy Names University, welcomed home the participants, attend-
ees enjoyed an early afternoon luncheon in the Valley Center for the
Performing Arts’ Studio Theater.  During the luncheon, Dr. Fay L.
Bower, Chair of the HNU Nursing Department, gave an in-depth
update on the HNU Nursing Program.  In her presentation, Dr. Bow-
er reviewed HNU’s current nursing programs including the RN to
Reaching Out to Regional Alumni
H NU alumni live and work across the United States and
around the world. For many alumni, frequent trips to visit
and actively participant in the University community are not pos-
sible. The Alumni Association with the assistance of Trustee Steven
Borg ’86 and Sr. Maureen Hester, SNJM ’64, recently launched
regional alumni gathering efforts in Oregon and Southern Cali-
fornia. Both events provided an opportunity for distant alumni to
celebrate their HNU pride while receiving the latest HNU updates.
On September 17th, 2009, Sr. Maureen Hester, SNJM ‘64 met with
Penny Hunter-Geraci ’78, Marjorie A. Cannon ’70, Barbara Prack
Benson ‘79 and Joe O’Neill ’07 for an Oregon Alumni Gathering
on the Marylhurst University campus outside of Portland. Though
the participants’ graduation years ranged between 1970 and 2007,
the group fondly shared memories of their interactions with Dr.
Sheila Gibson from the CORE program and Sr. Irene Woodward.
One surprise came when Penny Hunter-Geraci brought out a “pen-
ny” postcard sent to her by Sr. Maureen congratulating her success
in statistics. The recent Oregon Alumni Gathering was a joyous oc-
casion, providing the early beginnings of an Oregon based alumni
network for future gathering opportunities.
On Wednesday, February 10, 2010, HNU Trustee Steven Borg
‘86 met with Stephanie V. Enright ’47, Judy E. Nguyen ’99, Karin
Kennedy Parish Scholarship Winner
Were you a Kennedy Parish Scholarship winner? Do you remember one? Sister Maureen Hester, Professor Emerita, Psychology, and Michelle Myers ’10, recipient of the Kennedy
Parish Scholarship, want to identify past Kennedy Parish Scholars to form a Society of Kennedy Parish Scholars whose purpose is to honor their past success and to encourage
present and future psychology majors. If you are or can remember a Kennedy Parish Scholar in your class, please contact John McCoy, Alumni Director at mccoy@hnu.edu.
MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 16
BSN program and the Masters in Nursing program with four focus
options.  Dr. Bower also highlighted the success of HNU’s 2+2 RN
program in which students complete their general education require-
ments at HNU prior to moving on to Samuel Merritt University to
receive their BSN degree.  HNU is currently in the process of seeking
approval from the Academic Senate for two new nursing programs: a
duel graduate degree program in Nursing/Forensic Psychology and a
LVN to BSN undergraduate program.
Dr. Marcia Canton gave an interactive presentation on the Center for
the Third Age. Dr. Canton is currently the HNU Nursing Academic
Advisor and a Professor Emeritus from San Jose State University. Ref-
erencing Dr. Bower’s recent publication, Why Retire? Career Strate-
gies for Third Age Nurses, Dr. Canton delivered a lively presentation
that encouraged nurse alumni to explore and openly discuss their fu-
ture interests and career strategies for retirement and before. Dr. Bower
concluded the presentation by encouraging the attendees to continue
to pursue nursing education opportunities and to have fun exploring
the diversity of career options nursing offers.
Participating Nurse Alumni gathered in the Valley Center for Performing Arts for a group photo.
Navar McDonald ’99, Heather Hodge ’92 and Mary L. Dawe ’75
for HNU’s Southern California Alumni Cocktail Reception at the
Balboa Bay Club and Resort in Newport Beach. The event was a
wonderful opportunity for Southern California Alumni to interact
with an HNU Trustee and to receive HNU community news while
enjoying specialty cocktails and breathtaking views of Newport
Harbor. In addition to discussing HNU happenings, the group
expressed interest in coming together for future alumni gathering
efforts throughout the Southern California region.
If you live in a region beyond the San Francisco Bay Area and would
like to participate in existing Regional Alumni Gathering efforts in
Portland or Southern California, or would like to launch an effort
in your area, we invite you to contact the Alumni Relations Office
at (510) 436-1240 or alumni@hnu.edu.
Oregon Alumni Gathering attendees from left to right: Joe O’Neill, Sr. Maureen Hester, SNJM ’64, Barbara Prack
Benson, Marjorie A. Cannon and Penny Hunter-Geraci
5/21/10 11:29 AM

Connecting Science and Civic Engagement:
HNU Professor Launches SENCER Project
D r. Julia Smith, HNU Professor of Biological Science, serves on
the leadership council for the SENCER Center for Innovation-
West - Science Education for New Civic Engagements and Respon-
sibilities (SENCER), a national initiative sponsored by the National
Science Foundation (NSF). Launched in 2001, SENCER aims to get
more students interested in “stem disciplines” (science, technology,
engineering and mathematics) by encouraging university faculty to
create science curriculum that addresses real world issues such as
HIV/AIDS, the threat toxins pose to the environment and the rela-
tionship between obesity and diabetes in America. Students that par-
ticipant in SENCER-related projects at HNU and universities across
the nation participate in hands-on learning experiences such as the
opportunity to contribute to local and national research by taking an
active role in data collection and data analysis. SENCER helps stu-
dents to achieve the connection between science and other studies by
strengthening “students’ understanding of science and their capacity
for responsible work and citizenship” said Dr. Smith.
HNU Professor Reads New Book at Campus Book Signing Event
O n Thursday, Febru-
ary 11th, 2010, HNU
community members par-
ticipated in the University’s
first “book signing” event
in Cushing Library. Jointly
hosted by the Library and
the campus bookstore, the
event featured Dr. Dan
Schmidt, HNU Professor of English, reading from his
latest book Houndini and Other Tales. Those pres-
ent enjoyed wine, cheese and laughter as Professor
Schmidt shared true-life stories about a beagle who
regularly outsmarted his owner.
MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 17
FACULTY NEWS
Since joining SENCER’s western leadership council in 2008, Dr.
Smith has integrated SENCER models into her Introductory Biol-
ogy and Environmental Studies courses at HNU. Focusing on lo-
cal water issues, Dr. Smith and her students explore the threat of
toxins such as pyrethroids and other insecticides on local watersheds
throughout the Oakland area. In particular, Dr. Smith’s curriculum
provides opportunities for students to directly contribute to creek
restoration and preservation efforts of local environmental organiza-
tions like The Friends of Sausal Creek (Sausal Creek begins in the
Oakland Hills and runs through Oakland). Students receive instruc-
tion on how to design environmental projects that align with The
Friends of Sausal Creek’s mission and participate in river clean-up
days to collect and analyze data on the human impact to the creek
and the greater environment. According to Dr. Smith, implement-
ing SENCER at HNU is about “applying the science of learning
to the learning of science. It’s an effort to make science meaningful
to students by getting them involved with it and to engage with the
community as scientists in an authentic and significant way.”
Dr. Smith’s leadership in spearheading the integration of SENCER
into the HNU science curriculum complements and reinforces the
University’s commitment to engendering a sense of leadership and
civic engagement in all students. By participating in the program,
students learn how to use science to help their local community and
are empowered to take on active roles in educating and establishing
polices to reduce waste and promote recycling. “My biggest reward
has been making the curriculum relevant for students. The students
really get excited about learning when they know that they are mak-
ing a difference” said Dr. Smith.
Dr. Smith is a tenured Professor of Biological Science at Holy Names University. She recently completed and
published an article, “The Problem of Revealing How Students Think: Concept Inventories and Beyond”, in
CBE-Life Science Education.
Described by Sr. Rosemarie, President of Holy Names University,
as “humorous, entertaining, creative and clever in literary expres-
sion”, Dr. Schmidt’s collection of “true stories about people, places,
pets, and off-road vehicles” was both an enlightening and fun expe-
rience for the campus community. As an added treat, Dr. Schmidt
also provided a preview from his forthcoming work which includes
a poem cycle featuring a bacon theme.
Following the reading, attendees had the opportunity to purchase
signed copies of Houndini and Other Tales. Copies of Houndini
and Other Tales are currently available in the HNU bookstore.
Professor Dan Schmidt discuss his latest book with Sr. Rosemarie, Anne Laskey and HNU student Marlow
Hooper ’10.
SPRING 2010  |  HNU TODAY  17
5/21/10 11:29 AM
 FUNDRAISING NEWS

HNU Dedicates the Y&H Soda Foundation Student Center Wing,

the Joyce and Rodger Dobbel Academic Wing and the HEDCO
Technology Support Center
O ver one hundred alumni, university friends, students, fac-
ulty and staff gathered at the J.M. Long Foundation Student
Lounge for the official blessing and dedication of the new facility on
1

Thursday, March 25th, 2010. Located on the first floor of Brennan

Hall, the new Student Center has revitalized the campus community.

The dedication ceremony was an auspicious occasion and featured

a brief program in which Sr. Rosemarie and attending luminaries,
including Chair of the Board of Trustees, Ronald V. Rosequist,
and Vice Chair of the Board, Jim P. Kelly, commented on the im-
portance of the new Center to the University’s mission to develop
transformative leaders within a supportive and rigorous academic
environment. During the ceremony, Jim Kelly recognized the con-
tributions of the Board of Trustees and Regents, commenting “you
helped us to do it all and in the end we got more then we could ever
imagine, thank you.” The Board of Trustee and Regents contrib-
uted one third of the funding for the new Center.

The capital campaign to renew the first floor of Brennan Hall start-
ed in the spring of 2008. Thanks to the generosity of loyal alumni,
donors and friends, HNU raised over $1.8 million towards funding
the transformative project. Construction of the news space began
immediately after spring 2009 commencement and transformed
the hall into a 15,800 square-foot, full service Student Center with
upgraded classrooms, faculty offices, wireless lounge space and the
new HEDCO Technology Support Center.

“The newly designed first floor provides a dynamic 21st century

environment experience. It has deepened our students’ enthusiasm
and pride in their university as well as their expectations of what
is to come” said Sr. Rosemarie. The new Center’s combination of

2 3

18 LIBERATING MINDS  •  TRANSFORMING LIVES  •  SINCE 1868

MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 18 5/21/10 11:29 AM

 FUNDRAISING NEWS

academic areas and student services such as the Learning and Tu-
toring Center, Career and Health Center and the Center for Civic 4
Engagement and Service Learning ensures that all HNU students
benefit from resources that are essential to their success and em-
powerment. A major component of the new space is the HEDCO
Technology Support Center (TSC). The TSC has transformed the
campus technology environment by providing space for multi-plat-
form technology while also consolidating campus computer servic-
es and furthering students’ access to mobile computer technology.

On behalf of HNU students, student body Vice President, Anitra

McCain ’12, expressed her appreciation for the new Center and
summarized the many ways HNU students are embracing the new
space. “Now that Brennan is fully renovated, a curiosity has been
sparked in the students to really take advantage of the services of-
fered in the new facility. The Soda Foundation Wing has given stu-
dents a new found air of confidence. It has offered us a competitive
and modern environment. The Joyce and Rodger Dobbel Academic
Wing has been enhanced with built in projectors and new class-
room furniture. By simply plugging our personal laptops into the
Smart Board, we can share relevant discussion findings from the
internet for the rest of our peers to see. The J.M. Long Foundation
Lounge is full of life. There has been an increase in club meetings,
group discussions, and events held in the Student Lounge. Inter-
action between Resident Life Students, Commuter Students and
1 L to R Chair of the Board of Trustees, Ronald V. Rosequist, JD, Rosaleen Kelly ’55 and husband Jim P. Kelly,
Adult Students is an increasing norm.” Anitra concluded her speech Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees. 2 L to R Trustee Loretta Smith ’87, President Nassif, and Trustee Nikki
by commenting with sincere gratitude that support from HNU do- Maziasz ’01. 3 L to R Trustee Steve Borg ’86, MA, Vice Chair of the Board of Trustee, Jim P. Kelly and Rosaleen
nors transformed Brennan Hall from a “diamond in the rough and Kelly ’55, and HEDCO Foundation Executive Director, Derek Jernstedt 4 Anitra McCain ’12, student body Vice
President. 5 L to R Rev. Paul R. Vassar and Sr. Carol Sellman, Vice President for Mission Effectiveness.
given it a chance to shine and for that, we students thank you!” 6 Demonstrations at the new HEDCO Technology Support Center.

Rev. Paul R. Vassar concluded the dedication ceremony by lead-

ing the blessing of the new facility. Prior to the formal program,
attendees enjoyed wine and hors d’oeuvres and had the oppor- 6
tunity to tour the new facility. Thank you to all the generous
donors and HNU friends and community members that con-
tributed and helped to make the new Student Center a reality
for the HNU community.

SPRING 2010  |  HNU TODAY  19

MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 19 5/21/10 11:29 AM

 Class Notes
’07 Antoinette A. Chavis continues to work for Pro-
zyme, a Hayward based manufacturer of specialty
proteins and enzymes for diagnostics and research ap-
plications.
‘05 Evelyn Eligio welcomed a new member to her
family. Evan Santino Torres was bored on January
21st, 2010. Evan weighted 6 lbs. 15 oz. and was 21” long.
‘02 Lorna M. Vierra MA retired from Alameda
County Social Service after 26 years.
‘96 Beverly Lauderdale ’96 recently released her latest
novel, In Franklin’s House. Published by Oak Tree
Press, the novel is being billed as a paranormal story; Kate,
the protagonist, believes that a poetry-writing ghost inhab-
its her northern California home.
‘88 Anne Dunlap-Kahren is the new Kappa Gamma
Pi News Editor. Starting with the November
2009 issue, Anne assumed full editorial responsibilities
for KGP News.
’82 Gloria Seward became a Licensed Teacher/
Counselor. A special licensing ceremony was held
in her honor on Sunday, September 13th, 2009.
‘71 Kathy Donovan Perez will be a featured presenter
at the New Zeland-International Congress of Read-
ing in July 2010. Kathy recently returned from visiting
Singapore and Bali where she presented to over 1500
teachers and parents. While in Singapore, Kathy also vis-
ited Nathalia Lie Hwang ’72.
‘74 Marilyn Finch Ucok and husband Hikmet Ucok
repatriated to Moorpark, California from Bang-
kok, Thailand. Hikmet recently received a gold watch
for 30 years of service with Chevron Corp., and Marilyn
works as a speech-language pathologist for Moorpark
Unified School District.  Daughters Ayla-Louise (age
20) and Ayhan Marie (19) attend Cal Poly, San Luis
Obispo and UC Santa Barbara, respectively.  Grandma,
at age 95, continues to hold down the family “fort” in
nearby Camarillo.
’68 Susan F. Schnieders retired in June 2009 from
Torrance Unified School District after 19 years
in College Counseling. Susan is enjoying spending time
with her four grandsons and children in New York, Wal-
nut Creek and Manhattan Beach.
’66 Janice Ornellas was recently appointed Assistant
Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Cali-
fornia State University East Bay.
’66 Judy Goff Roveda was inducted into Alameda
County’s Women Hall of Fame in April 2009.
Judy has spent decades of her life fighting for work-
ers rights. Judy was statewide President of SEIU Local
535, and became the first woman to lead a major labor
council in California when, in 1983, she became Presi-
dent of the Alameda County Labor Council. Under her
leadership, the Council fought successfully for passage
of living wage ordinances in several East Bay cities and
the Port of Oakland. She also co-sponsored the Labor
Project for Working Families, which lead to passage of
Paid Family Leave in California in 2002.
’66 Rosemary Randall Trei and her husband, Char-
lie, enjoy traveling and spending time with their
20 LIBERATING MINDS  •  TRANSFORMING LIVES  •  SINCE 1868
MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 20
family. They now have six delightful, energetic grand-
children ages 1-14. In June, Rosemary was ordained as a
deacon in the Episcopal Church and she is also on staff
at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Dallas, TX in pastoral
care and outreach ministry.
’65
Maureen Sheridan Scott now has three grandsons.
’64, ’70 Kathleen Gallagher Dunlap attended a
Navy reunion for the Londondury, N.I.
alumni in Charleston, SC in September 2009.
’60
Nancy A. Roell is currently working at San An-
tonio College in a dropout recovery program. She
has 15 grandchildren, two of which are in college.
’57 Barbara A. DePaoli and husband celebrated their
50th wedding anniversary in July 2009. The couple
spent a week in a beach house at Aptos with their 3 chil-
dren, 7 grandchildren, and extended family members.
’56 Shirley M. Cooper enjoyed a wonderful trip to
Australia, New Zealand and Fiji in October and
November of 2009. Throughout her journey, Shirley
met many interesting people. Her favorite place was
Christchurch, New Zealand.
’52
Joanne Sciaroni continues to enjoy her two grand-
children, Aurelie, age 9, and Massimo, age 7. Since
the death of her husband, Rinaldo, her grandchildren have
keep the family busy dealing with the tooth fairy, and grades
1 and 3, as well as soccer, volleyball, karate, homework, and
many school events at Saint Vincent de Paul School.
’41
Dorothy J. Martin celebrated her 90th birthday
on February 7, 2010.
IN MEMORIAM
Catherine Arnoldy, SNDdeN, January 16, 2010
Marie H. Castellanos Lyen ‘62 January 31, 2009
Elinor Mayon Choos ‘26 February 5, 2009
John Kent Davis (husband of Susan Galasso Davis ’64)
February 9, 2010
Gil Bakke (husband of Tammy Cotter Bakke ’65) February 2010
Elizabeth H. Ashley (former staff) March 31, 2009
Marty Loquvam (friend) April 21, 2009
Rozema L. Summers ‘90 April 22, 2009
Robert Foley (friend) May 16, 2009
Joan Scanlon (friend) May 29, 2009
John Tunney (husband of Bette J. Tunney ’43) June 2009
John Jogopulos (father of Patricia Jogopulos ’74) July 2009
Marijo Page Robinson ’62 July 14, 2009
Harry Gomes (husband of Angie, former staff, and friend)
July 20, 2009
George Martin Ahern (friend) July 20, 2009
Marcelus A. Decoulode ( father of Amanda Jean De-
coulode ’12 and friend ) July 27, 2009
Constance Ryan Stefani ‘57 August 8, 2009
Marie Yvonne Armstrong, OP MA ‘75 August 13, 2009
Patricia Wong Young ‘70 August 15, 2009
Carol Anne Reilly ‘62 August 21, 2009
Rita Caulfield, SNJM August 22, 2009
Marta Mormorunni Kramer (former faculty) August 24, 2009
John Frei, Sr. (husband of Elizabeth McCrory Frei ’51)
September 14, 2009
May G. Begovich ‘29 September 17, 2009
Irvin Koop (father of Stuart Koop, staff) September 30, 2009
Art Vargas (husband of Jeanne, former staff ) October 9, 2009
Mary Eleanor McGloin, PBVM, MA ‘70 October 14, 2009
Mary Bruder Smith ’42 (mother of Barbara Smith Crav-
alho ’66) October 20, 2009
Mary Gene Heller, SNJM October 28, 2009
Mary Brearcliff (mother of Andrea Brearcliffe Bryant ’60)
November 1, 2009
Monica Klimas Peiffer ‘64 November 3, 2009
Tommy Lawscha (father of Candice Cummings, staff)
November 3, 2009
Georgianna Donnelly ‘71 November 12, 2009
Paul C. Siefke (father of Liz Siefke ’12) November 12, 2009
Helen ‘Penny’ Gancos Fite ‘59 November 14, 2009
Joseph Moura (husband of Sheila Moura ’51, great uncle of
Jennifer Perkins ’08 , Admissions staff ) November 15, 2009
Frances Franey, SNJM ’61 (Maria Anna) November 17, 2009
Lillian Marie Filippa Sullivan ‘43 November 21, 2009
Louise Malloy (mother of Sheila Malloy ’67) December 9, 2009
Angelo Colapietro (father of Sr. Annamarie Therese Co-
lapietro, snjm ’69) December 12, 2009
Thomas Wrin (husband of Regina M. Wrin ’50) December
13th, 2009
Anette Jacqueline Blanquie Moran ‘47 December 15, 2009
Teresa Agnes Casarotti Brusher ‘43 December 24, 2009
Catherine Johnson Eames ‘43 December 29, 2009
Gilbert Ramirez (brother of Irene Neumeister ’10) January 2010
Jeanne Virginia Heinisch, SNJM ’62 (Mary of Naza-
reth) January 3, 2010
Phillip D. Quittman (husband of Mary Ann Bareilles
Quittman, ‘55) January 8, 2010
Alberta Peixoto Perfumo ‘43 January 9, 2010
Pat Brown Forgatsch ‘66 January 24, 2010
Dale Larkin (father of Daleen Larkin ’70, SNJM)
January 13th, 2010
Jack Harrison (husband of Beverly Nixon Harrison ’69)
January 27, 2010
Patrick Underwood (son of Marion Marshall, Asst. Professor,
Ed. Dept.) January 31, 2010
Mary McCarthy (grandmother of Tim Hart, staff) February 2, 2010
Robert Theren (father of Maria Theren, staff) February 6, 2010
Roberta Frances Fleitz ’69 (daughter of Virginia Dowl-
ing Fleitz ’39; sister of Carol Fleitz, SNJM ‘64, Janice
Fleitz Steinkamp ’90 Cred,.; niece of Margaret Fleitz Mer-
cer ’35, Mary Christine Fleitz, SNJM ’38, Gemma Sul-
livan Fleitz ’38.)
Rita McWalters Schneider ‘44 February 13, 2010
Theresa Rose Valerga, SNJM ‘52 February 22, 2010
Judy Rinek, SNJM ‘65 March 23, 2010
5/21/10 11:29 AM

Tenure of Refoundation, Legacy of Leadership:
President Nassif has transformed Holy Names University,
from academic programs to new facilities to the University’s
national outlook and reputation. Known for her energy and
enthusiasm, her inspirational leadership empowered the
University to meet multiple challenges and established a
synergy of forward momentum for years to come. To ex-
press our gratitude and appreciation, we invited members
of the Holy Names University community to reflect on Presi-
dent Nassif’s transformative legacy.
“As a Sister of the Holy Names, I have been espe-
cially grateful for the whole-hearted enthusiasm
with which Sister Rosemarie has fully embraced the
history, the spirit, and the charism of our commu-
nity.  She has been our greatest “cheerleader”. She
has taken full advantage of every major event to re-
mind us of the mission that unites us and sends our
students and all of us into the wider community to
make a difference that transforms lives.”
Cynthia Canning, SNJM ’68, Trustee
“Sister Rosemarie’s tenure has been remarkable in
many ways. Achieving a ten year accreditation, fi-
nancial stability, increasing enrollment, market
responsive curriculum and $7 million renovations
are among those achievements. She gathered an ef-
fective group of Vice Presidents to help create a vi-
sion and undertake the necessary action to imple-
ment it. As a Trustee , I enjoy seeing the positive
impact our University has, with Rosemarie’s lead-
ership, on a very diverse group of talented students. As a person, I am
blessed to have her as a friend.”
Ronald V. Rosequist, JD, Chairman of the Board of Trustees
“Sr. Rosemarie’s enthusiasm has inspired all HNU
students to be the best version of themselves they can
be. She epitomized the role of a university President
and was always a passionate advocate for the best in-
terest of students. I personally will never forget spend-
ing spring break building homes with Sr. Rosemarie.
To simply say that she was “ hands on” would not do
her contributions to the worksite nor the dynamics of
the trip justice. She is, in a word, extraordinary”
Jonathan Allen ‘10
MS052110OIA_spHNUToday.indd 21
LAST WORD
Reflections on a Presidency
“Sr. Rosemarie resuscitated Holy Names University
into a viable and productive university with the largest
enrollment in its history. Under Sr. Rosemarie’s leader-
ship, we now have a State-of-the-Art computer center,
a large and well staffed student service center, newly
renovated science labs and the most diverse student
body in the West.”
Dr. Fay L. Bower, Chair of the Nursing Department
“In my 36 years of working, I never experienced any-
one that demanded perfection as much as Sister Rose-
marie. She totally immersed herself in each and every
project she was involved with. Everything had to be
the Perfect Solution.”
Vicki Tom, President’s Executive Assistant
“In my nine years at Holy Names University, I’ve seen
Sr. Rosemarie’s determination, intelligence, and com-
mitments to the SNJM Mission propel the University
to new heights. The energy Sr. Rosemarie brought to
campus along with her ‘winning attitude’ has been
contagious. During her Presidency, we’ve seen record
enrollments and experienced a new vibrancy that was
much needed. Sr. Rosemarie has been a mentor of
mine, an inspiration to the community and will al-
ways be part of the Holy Names University family. We will miss her!”
Murad Dibbini, Dean of Enrollment Services
“Sr. Rosemarie has truly been a transformative lead-
er. Her leadership over the past 10 years revitalized
and strengthened the University. I am grateful and
proud of Sr. Rosemarie’s accomplishments during her
tenure. She has given current and future alumni a
lasting gift – a University that now stands firm and
positioned for an exciting new chapter.
Julie N. Echaniz ’75, President of the Alumni Executive Board.
SPRING 2010  |  HNU TODAY  21
5/21/10 11:29 AM
 Non-Profit
Organization
U.S. Postage
Office of Institutional Advancement
PAID
3500 Mountain Boulevard
Holy Names
Oakland, CA 94619-1699
University
510-436-1240
www.hnu.edu

Frieda Mary Nassif Scholarship

Join the HNU community in honoring Sister Rosemarie’s retirement
and legacy of leadership by making a contribution to the Frieda Mary

Nassif Scholarship. Established in honor of Sr. Rosemarie’s mother, the

scholarship will be awarded to deserving undergraduate students.

To make a donation:
call (510) 436-1240 or email: alumni@hnu.edu

Give.
Degrees of Passion begin with you!