R Connections

Hello, classmates! “If winter comes, can spring be far behind?”

I am really getting restless to be outdoors – to take longer walks and to play in the garden. I am not much of a tv-watcher, aside from some PBS shows and Sunday football. I do read an awful lot, bird-watch and hike locally, as well as volunteer at my library. We haven’t done any traveling in a very long time, and we are looking forward to taking some trips as soon as we can. But one thing COVID-19 has done for us is show us all the interesting things there are to do in our own backyard, so to speak – the museums, art galleries, and exhibits going on close by, and we’ve tried to experience as many as possible. Are you doing this, too? If so, I hope you will share your experiences with me so I can add them to future Class Letters.

I know the folks at the College are working hard as they always do on preparing for Alumni Weekend, and they are hoping we all plan to be on campus June 23-26. It’s not too early to make hotel reservations, and be watching for news of online registration later this spring. A list of area hotels is available at www.ripon.edu/lodging/.

How exciting it will be to get back to our traditional celebration!

You may also be excited to see all the changes taking place in downtown Ripon. Apparently, Ripon has received a lot of attention and recognition for upgrades to the downtown area, taking advantage of the lovely architecture of so many remaining buildings, and has become quite a popular destination for shopping and dining. It was recently named one of the “Coolest Small Towns in America!” And, if you check out Ripon’s Main Street Facebook page, you’ll see they have events planned for the rest of 2022, with something for everyone. I look forward to strolling down Watson Street and experiencing its charm once again.

There aren’t a lot of Class Notes this time, but I must say it was wonderful to hear from some folks we haven’t heard from in awhile. I guess the pandemic has kept most of us close to home, but even if you aren’t traveling, it’s great to hear what’s on your mind. Keep me in the loop!

KATHY WILLIAMS HOFFER ’74 and TERRY HOFFER III ’74 of Danville, Vermont, write: “We remember being puzzled when in 1992 Ripon decided to retire the Redman mascot. There was an emerging controversy about the disrespect such a mascot name extended to Native Americans, and ultimately the College became formally known as the Red Hawks. We are no longer puzzled, and in retrospect, we appreciate Ripon doing the right thing. We live in Danville, a small town in northern Vermont, with a high school that has represented itself as the Indians. The mascot controversy simmered until last fall when the pendulum swung to a point of agreement for change. Now we are the Danville Bears. GO BEARS!”

KIM KOBRIGER ’74 of Henderson, Nevada, sent the following news: “Teri and I have sold our house in Nine Mile Falls, Washington, and our new permanent address is in Sun City McDonald Ranch, in Henderson, Nevada. Teri is redoing the interior of the house – she is painting and doing new baseboards and door casings – she likes doing it herself!!

“I am hoping to make it back to Ripon this summer and MARK WRIGHT ’75 and I along with BILL BRUCATO ’73 are planning a 50-year swimming reunion for all swimmers for October to celebrate the 1970-71 and 1971-72 Swimming Conference Championships. I am trying to get back in shape by walking and golfing.

“We are guardians of Teri’s daughter’s oldest who is a senior at Coronado High School. I am an active member of Rotary and I volunteer with the Knights of Columbus to serve food at the Senior Center and at the Catholic Charities Food Pantry.

“All is going well and I wish you and your family a blessed and peaceful New Year ahead. I hope all this craziness settles out and people can get back to normal lives.”

Class notes

DEBORAH EVANS CLEM ’74 of Boulder, Colorado, writes, “We are long retired but my husband Steven is a faithful Habitat volunteer and I continue to write; participate in music in a variety of ways, especially in the World Wide Dalcroze Music Education Community. Mostly we enjoy our family from age 97 to ages 2-1 with (seven) grandchildren and another on the way.”

LINDA LANDIN KAROW ’74 of Silver Spring, Maryland, says: “Just got back from the Atlanta area, where we visited our first grandchild, Kennedy Faye. She was born on November 1st. Life in Maryland has been an adventure. My daughter is getting married in downtown D.C. in July. I am looking forward to that.”

Good to hear from you all, and I know all your Ripon friends will be as well. Please keep sending your news and views; I will hang on to them until I write our next Class Letter. Meanwhile, stay healthy and happy, and make plans to be on campus for Alumni Weekend! Happy Spring!

All the best –

JAN PETROVSKI MACLEOD ’74
(630) 460-0320
Your 1974 Class Agent

Submitted by: Class Agent: Jan Petrovski MacLeod

Dear Classmates,

Give yourself a big pat on the back for making it through these past two years, and put a smile on your face!

In February, I read a study out of the University of Pittsburgh: 200 women, ages 45 to 67, standard ultrasound of their arteries, and a questionnaire asking them to rate how often they felt inadequate, disappointed by their (self-perceived) flaws or if they grant themselves caring during difficult life moments. Women who scored higher on the self-compassion scale had thinner carotid artery walls and less plaque buildup, which is linked to heart attacks and strokes, than those with lower self-compassion. So, all you perfectionists out there, give yourself a break!

If ever there was a perfectionist, it has to be U.S. figure skater Nathan Chen, the Olympic gold medal winner who dazzled in his performance of “Rocket Man.” He received a well-deserved two-page spread in The New York Times. Twenty years ago no one knew such a feat was possible.

The week before Valentine’s Day, we had amazing weather with temperatures in the 70s, people wearing shorts, and no need to turn up the heat at night! Last year, we had a couple of days like this at the end of January. Truth be told, we often have fog in summer – ask RICK ESTBERG ’75’s mom – some call it Faugust. So, we’re even.

Great news in California: The indoor mask mandate was lifted on February 16. Kids must wear masks in school, but state officials hinted a change could be announced on February 28. Sweden declared the pandemic over. Denmark, with only 30 patients in hospital intensive care, lifted restrictions. If you are among the 50% of Americans with a pre-existing condition, I offer a suggestion. Check your Vitamin D level with a blood test. I’ve done it at LifeExtension.com, founded and still owned by health-conscious Bill Faloon in Florida. Vitamin D plays a key role in the immune system and a low level is associated with depression. If your level is insufficient (below 50) or deficient, you can do something about it. If Bill had gone to Ripon, he’d be in the class of 1976.

Have a health challenge? See earthinginstitute.net for research (https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2011.0820) on how Earthing (aka grounding) reduces inflammation and has helped a variety of people, including heart patients. Worked for me, so I’m a fan!

Read on for classmate news: Two trips to the Holy Land, a lifetime achievement award, artistic ventures, a candidate, fun with grandchildren – they are the best, and an apology.

SUE CHAPMAN CARLTON ’75 of Fort Mill, South Carolina, emails: “We had two new grandbabies in 2021 and we have one on the way in May. We were gone 102 days last year helping out in Illinois and Florida and visiting both places numerous times. One visit to the Midwest included an ADPi reunion in Door County in September 2021. KAREN KUCKHAHN KEHL ’75 was there and 14 others from the Classes of  ’72 through ’77. We went for a boat ride in Green Bay, a trolley tour around the island, and experienced our first fish boil. Some of the husbands toured Lambeau Field, a real treat for my husband, Ray, who has been a Packer fan all his life. We were in Door County when I learned from LIZ NICHOLAS WALKER ’75, my freshman year roommate, that ANNETTE REIGLE BARRETT ’75 had passed away. My deepest sympathies to all who knew and loved ANNETTE. We are planning a trip to Florida for February and will catch up with family and a few New Jersey friends. Can’t wait to get out of this cold and snow!

“Currently, most of my time is spent leading the Daytripper Club at our Del Webb community. We just had our first trip this week, to the BMW plant in Greer, South Carolina. Other trips that we are looking at include Shadow Springs winery, Kings Mountain, and a tour of the South Carolina capitol building. If you are ever in South Carolina, please give us a ring at (201) 707-3409 (we are 20 minutes away from downtown Charlotte, North Carolina).”

KATHY KURKE ’75 of Ormond Beach, Florida, emails: “I have become a ‘Resident Artist’ for the Concklin Davis Center for the Visually Impaired creating textured and three-dimensional hanging art for appreciation by blind students. This has been a real stretch for me because I have always focused on mixed-media two-dimensional work. There are six of us and we also now have a resident gallery where we sell our more traditional art. 30% of the profits go to the school where they train blind and sometimes additionally challenged adults for employment. This school is the only of its kind in the United States. See: www.cvicentralflorida.org/about/message-from-the-president. Unfortunately, because of the pandemic, we have not been able to paint together and the new gallery has not yet been announced or made open to the public. It is just beginning to gear up again.

“As for most, the pandemic period was very difficult. My husband, Rich, and I spent most of our time serving as caregivers for Rich’s brother, Jim, as he navigated treatment for his stage four pancreatic cancer. His cancer was considered inoperable but the oncologist found a surgeon at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, who specialized in ‘inoperable’ pancreatic surgery. After many months of chemo followed by weeks of radiation, he had surgery successfully removing all of the cancer. Jim is now considered cancer-free and there is a very high likelihood it will not come back. But the poor guy went through hell and back as he went through the process. He has gone back to his own home as he fully recovers and deals with the side effects of the treatment. He celebrates every day that he is now cancer-free.

“During Jim’s treatment, I postponed treating my severe sciatica until Jim did not need our help. I finally had my own back surgery in the late fall with some success. Since then, I have had radiofrequency ablation for my right SI joint and am returning back to normal. I no longer need to use a cane to walk and I can sit and stand long enough to return to painting. I will have the same treatment on my left SI joint in a few weeks and believe that will be the last of it. I had an artist’s block during the family health issues and the worst of the pandemic, although while recuperating from my surgery I did return to making some jewelry and gave it all away to friends.

“Lastly, January 6 was devastating for this old political science major with a career as a federal attorney who faithfully served and protected the Federal Government and its system of democracy. It has been particularly hard to see the government I so faithfully served and protected torn to pieces and continue to deteriorate. I am finally expressing my angst through art that is being shown in a local show. All in all, things are looking up for our family and I realize there is much to be thankful for at this time. Good health is returning for me and mine, I can enjoy the warmth of Florida, a loving husband, and spend my retirement doing something I have loved doing since childhood, painting. I hope all is well with my Ripon classmates and would love to reunite with my old friends. I rarely go on Facebook so I have not kept up except through your Class Letters. I have a new email address: [email protected] and hope to hear from Classmates.”

LITA KATZ ’75 in Baltimore, Maryland, has a weather report: “I just got back from a walk in the park with my husband. We got about ¼ inch of snow yesterday, so everything is just nicely frosted.”

DICK O’CONNOR ’75 of Olympia, Washington, emails: “Cathy and I both retired last summer, and it is even better than everyone told us. The gift of time simply cannot be over-appreciated! We have spent (some of) our time being volunteer math tutors at the high school I just retired from, going to the gym ‘regularly,’ working on building ramps for wheelchair-bound older folks in our parish, and providing emergency daycare for our grandchildren when daycares/schools need to close down for a few days. It keeps us busy, but not too busy, which is just right! In mid-February, we are going on a ten-day guided tour of the Holy Land with a group from our parish. This is a trip-of-a-lifetime thing, which will happen as long as we continue to stay safe and test negative in the 72 hours before we leave. I’ll let you know next time how it was.

“Yesterday, I went razor clam digging near Ocean Shores, Washington, with one of my daughters, her husband, and their three young kids. The limit is 15, so the kids and I (as a team) tried to race Mom and Dad to their limits. Digging was tough, but we persevered and I helped the kids find a total of ten just as each of their parents got their 15. Then I dug on my own as the tide started to turn and picked up five and a half clams before dark fell. (The half was the result of a poorly-aimed shovel stab just before the surf came in, washing away the other half!) Technically, Team Kids+Grandpa won, 15.5 to 15 to 15. At least, if I’m making the rules.”

MARY ELIZABETH DELK ’75 of Austin, Texas, reports: “JACK DELK ’74 fully retired on December 31 – we are very happy to be enjoying a more leisure pace. We are going to Israel in April and we are very excited about that. We have a son getting married this summer. We love Austin, Texas, love being near our grandkids, and are very grateful for good health.” Connect with her at [email protected].

Congratulations to BOB BARRINGTON ’75 of Beaver Dam, Wisconsin! He emails: “I was honored to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Wisconsin District Attorney’s Association in November. Nominating letters focused on two things:

1.) My team and I developed a ‘paperless’ file system and then worked with the Wisconsin Court system to institute e-filing which allowed every prosecutor in Wisconsin to take their laptops home and not miss a beat during COVID-19. They had every document in every file in their respective offices accessible via VPN and could do everything from home that they had previously done in the office.

2.) The second theme of nominations discussed my efforts to tear down silos between justice partners, particularly with treatment courts – working to be less adversarial with people charged with crimes who need treatment rather than incarceration. I serve on the board of the Wisconsin Association of Treatment Court Professionals.”

Apologies to LINDA MOGICATO SASSER ’75 of Peoria, Arizona. Her correct email is [email protected]. She has now lived in sunny Arizona for four years and “loves walking, hiking, biking, kayaking, swimming, playing bocce, and just being outdoors, all of which got easier once she got her new right hip last May!” Daughter, Nicole, and her husband (in Orlando) gave birth to a son, last March, so now LINDA and Carey (married 42+ years) have three grandsons they visit there several times a year. Son, Scott, (in-house counsel with NetApp) hopes to move out of California later this year since he can work remotely. Though she still does webinars, LINDA is looking forward to speaking engagements being in person again this year, including one at The Villages in Florida in April. Her book “Brain SENSE: A Guide and Workbook to Keep Your Mind and Memory Sharp” is on Amazon.

LEN KACHINSKY ’75 of Neenah, Wisconsin, emails: “I am coming out of semi-retirement to participate in school protests over mandatory masking and to run for school board in Neenah. The Primary is on February 15. The general spring election is on April 5. Not yet been interviewed by the FBI task force on domestic terrorism.”

BECKY HADLEY ’75 of San Antonio, Texas, emails: “In a few words, life has had its ups and downs, but my main mantra is ‘gratitude.’ Life is very good for Peter and me and we’re loving retirement. I officially retired on 12/31/20. I had a 17-year career in printing and graphic arts in Chicago and San Antonio and a 25-year career in nursing in San Antonio. I might have worked a bit longer in nursing doing “prn” but with the pandemic shutting down the surgical center I worked at for a while and some health issues, I decided to call it quits, I did have a time of finding it hard to let go of working for over 42 years, but now find retirement the BEST!

“Don’t want to bore folks with talking about my health issues, but I’ll mention them only to say that it’s so important to pay attention to your body and pay attention and get regular checkups even if you feel fine. In late 2019, I noticed a lump in my right breast—it was cancer. 2020 was an interesting year to have surgery but I did have a lumpectomy and then radiation. So far, I’m doing good and I’m followed closely. I’m also followed by a cardiologist as I’d reported intermittent palpitations; on a follow up I was found to be a potentially lethal heart rhythm (A-fib) and have consequently had two procedures to attempt to fix it. I now take some meds to help prevent a stroke. I am just so GRATEFUL to have had good care for these issues which are serious but treatable and I am grateful to be alive and feeling well.

“We have traveled quite a bit in the past two years. We’re triply vaccinated and most of our trips involve a lot of hiking and being outdoors. Like many, we’ve canceled several “big” trips, but have done much domestic travel—North Carolina, New Mexico, Colorado, hometown St. Louis, west Texas, the Texas coast, South Carolina, Washington D.C. (to visit our oldest daughter, Laura), and many trips to Houston to be with our youngest daughter Katy and son-in-law and adorable grandkids who are ages five and two.

“While in Taos, New Mexico last summer, I took a wonderful ceramics workshop on “spirit dolls.” It was hand-building with clay — no wheels involved! I’ve really gotten into this in a big way and have made a lot of stuff. Gift-giving this Christmas was a no-brainer! But I also answered a call for new artists in a cool gallery/shop here, and got my stuff accepted and have sold some things, and also work at the gallery one day a month. So art, painting watercolor, and now working in clay have been wonderful for me. I volunteer at least once a week for local Meals on Wheels. I saw DAVID GROSSMAN ’73 who was passing through San Antonio with his wife, Robin, a few weeks ago; we had a good time and I was a pretty good tour guide (if I do say so …).”

ANNETTE REIGLE BARRETT ’75 of Tucson, Arizona, died Sept. 8, 2021. At Ripon, she studied sociology and anthropology and was a member of Alpha Xi Delta. She worked in the construction industry. She was an avid reader, crafter, and dog owner. Survivors include two daughters; siblings, including a sister, SUDY REIGLE ALTHOLZ ’73, and a brother-in-law, THOMAS ALTHOLZ ’72.

BARB COLEOPY PORTER ’75 of Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada, writes: “I have moved to Nanaimo from nearby Lantzville and I am now on my own. This is a temporary landing spot where I can determine my next steps. I would greatly enjoy hearing from you, and I welcome you to connect with me through email at [email protected].”

Which Classmates are posting on Facebook? I’m starting with “A.” I may not get to “Z” so look for more updates in the fall. A reminder that we have a Class Facebook page: facebook.com/RiponCollegeClass75/.

I noticed NAN ANDREWS ’75 of Geneva, Illinois, shared a number of photos on her personal Facebook page that I found to be uplifting. They were a photo of the 2022 Ice Castle from the Eagle River Fire Department, poet Amanda Gorman reciting her latest, “New Day’s Lyric,” and a photo of her mom celebrating her 91st birthday.

SAM ARVANITIS ’75 Long Branch, New Jersey, has retired from university teaching — he’s a friend of BRUCE GUILFOILE ’75 in Japan.

In February, Black History Month, GLENDA HARRIS BARNETT ’75 of Hanover, Maryland, shared biographies of Louise Ceila Fleming, the first African American woman to the Women’s Medical College of Philadelphia, Surya Bonaly, who did a backflip at the 1998 Olympics (which was banned afterward), and Raven Wilkinson, the first African American woman to get a contract to dance full-time with a major ballet company, Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo of New York City and she was barred from performing on tour in the South — to ensure her safety.

When the snow fell in DePere, Wisconsin, Grandpa BOB BARTINGALE ’75 got outdoors with his grandkids on skis.

MARY SCHULTZ BARTKOWIAK ’75 of Brookfield, Wisconsin, co-hosted a bridal shower for Katie in August.

WARREN BLUHM ’75 reports JIM HANEY ’76 died on Dec. 2. JIM had an unforgettable voice if you ever tuned into WRPN for news on campus. WARREN tells how he recruited JIM to do that daily broadcast and JIM helped WARREN get a job at WDUX, starting the morning after the Ripon graduation. He remembers JIM as “one of the most likable intelligent and intentional people I’ve ever met, with a smile that made you smile.” JIM was a professor of communications at the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point and was communications director for Attorney General Jim Doyle and then-Governor Jim Doyle. We’ve lost two more from WRPN, WAYNE DAVIS ’76, a walking encyclopedia, great photographer, tremendous wit and caring human being, and ROB “TEX” MEYER ’78, a truly original human, as WARREN put it, “My memories of them bring a smile to my face and an ache of nostalgia for what were truly good old days.” WARREN adds, “I find myself wishing I’d stayed in touch and making a mental list of people really need to touch base with again, while I can.” I agree 200 percent! I also noticed that WARREN posted a picture of a puppy on social media named Willow. Willow is a cutie! Here’s her picture as proof. I reached out to WARREN and it turns out this picture is 13 years old, but it is still worth sharing with all of you, in my opinion!

Let’s move on to Ripon College news.

I must thank Classmates who supported Ripon College this past fiscal year, especially those who supported the Ripon Fund, as well as #OneDayRally is scheduled for Wednesday, April 27. Mark your calendar!

Our Class gave $45,862 in 2021 — 32.21% compared to 26.67% of alumni as a whole. I’m sure we will have a higher percentage going forward! 🙂

I have been helping my daughter-in-law homeschool Matthew, who is five, who is very interested in planets and firefighting, and Amaris, four, who loves to draw. She has a very nice setup with desks, a whiteboard, an easel, and a desktop computer for educational videos, like one on Japanese calligraphy. Matthew remembers sakura means cherry blossoms and Amaris produced the symbol for the sun.

I am excited about 2022 Coastal Health & Wellness, the news magazine I’m working on, which will include a study on Earthing, an explanation of Ayurveda from a local practitioner, and a recipe from Chris Wark, who beat stage two colon cancer in 2003 with surgery and dramatically changing his life. He says cancer is not an emergency, it’s a wake-up call. So many people asked him how he did it, he created a ten-part online series (free in March) — forgiveness is a must — hosted monthly chats, wrote a book to inspire others, and now Beat Cancer Kitchen, written with his wife. Believe me, these recipes will have you salivating! More at ChrisBeatCancer.com. Our 2022 magazine will be posted at tpgonlinedaily.com.

Our Class is not in the reunion cycle this year but you are welcome to make plans to attend Alumni Weekend on campus: June 23-26, 2022.

Our BIG Reunion will be in 2025.
I am looking forward to seeing you!
Your Class Agent,

JONDI GUMZ ’75
H: (831) 461-1120 / M: (831) 461-5946

Submitted by: Class Agent: Jondi Gumz

MICHELE BARAN WITTLER ’76

PETER TUZ ’76
Your 1976 Class Agents

Submitted by: Class Agents: Peter Tuz & Michele Wittler

Dear Classmates:

It’s time once again for our class letter. Headlining our news is the loss of our larger than life, former Class Agent and friend ROB “TEX” MEYER last November. Rob was co-Class Agent with LYNN BANNON for seven years from 2001-2007 and visited many of us on several extended road trips across the continent over the last few decades. He recruited me to be your current Class Agent. If you were on his text list, once a week you would receive a Tuesday Trivia challenge question and many other texts day-to-day about his take on politics or about his beloved Mariner and Seahawks sports teams. Former Ripon staff members and alumni extending their condolences to our class included: BILL NEILL ’67, RUTH ANN STODOLA ’76, and Class Agents, JONDI GUMZ ’75, PETER TUZ ’76, and ALAN LAWRENCE ’77.

Another great friend of our classmates, ANDY MARVEL ’77 passed away last September, as well.

I did not get as many updates as were provided for the last letter, so that means I had to make “stuff” up by researching a few things that you would find of interest. Stay with me here, I think you will find some of it interesting.

April 27th is Ripon’s annual #OneDayRally. As a class, we have dominated participation for each of the four years since the #OneDayRally inception. We have a reputation to maintain as the “most loyal class” juggernaut that all of the other Ripon classes are shooting to emulate in April. For us to succeed again, we need everyone reading this letter to participate. Expect to get a call, email, or text from LISA WOLLAN, LIZ PECHA-POELKER, LOUISA GEBELEIN JONES, SUE FEITH SHANNON, or me on April 27th asking for your support. Please help us out with your kind support of this worthy effort to support our Alma Mater.

HEADLINES FOR THIS LETTER: 

• ’78 Classmate Updates
• Faculty Updates of Interest
• Sad News
• #OneDayRally April 27th
• 45th Class Reunion in 2023!
• Class Letter Updates for Fall Letter

’78 Classmate Updates: 

MIKE CHAMBERLAIN of Auburn, New York, continues some follow-on research to determine names of soldiers and details about locations shown in his father’s 900-plus World War II wartime photos that he recently donated to the Veterans History Project at the Library of Congress. “A couple more pieces have rolled in on my dad and his WW2 photos. One is from a national magazine – World War II, while the other is from a regional magazine geared toward seniors living in the Capital District (New York/Hudson Valley). I expect that these will be the last two articles, although I was contacted by a French website dedicated to commemorating the invasion of southern France. They asked for my father’s bio and some pictures to post on their site. That might shake loose some additional interest.” Regarding the pandemic, MIKE said, “Let’s just hope this all settles down before the 45th Reunion in 2023! Glenda and I are healthy but redoubling our efforts to stay safe given the latest surge. Hoping that everyone on your end is doing well.”

ROBBIE CORDO writes: “I moved from Minneapolis to Oshkosh to be near Ripon after 43 years. I love the area and my Minneapolis-based business is doing very well. I visit the Twin Cities three times per month. I often visit BOB PARDO ’77, CATHY LARSEN ’80, and MARTY ERNSER ’78. If you are in the area, please call me at 612-201-6106 or send an email to [email protected].

I was thrilled to get an update from ROBERTA deBOER DURHAM of Toledo, Ohio (pictured right). Before graduating from Beloit College, Roberta spent two years with us at Ripon. She was a freshman roommate to ERICA DOSS and ANNE ERNSER HANSON, respectively, and has great memories of her time at Ripon. With regard to what she is doing now, in 2019, Roberta pursued her passion and founded Toledo Better Together after she retired from 26 years in journalism (with the last 16 years as a columnist at The Blade). The Toledo Better Together non-profit which she also directs “Provides consistent, enduring mentor relationships to young adults exiting foster care. We bring together small groups of six to eight vetted, trained volunteers who commit for one year to weekly dinner gatherings with one young foster alum. The group offers encouragement and support to help that young adult reach whatever goals s/he/they identify. Above all, BTT volunteers offer foster alums unconditional belonging and community, ideally well beyond the initial one-year commitment.”

In early February, ALAN HODKIEWICZ wrote: “Hey Gregg, how’s life in the snowy Mid-Atlantic??? You probably have more snow than we do. Well, we moved the week before Christmas. We are back out in a rural area again. Not a farmhouse. – AL and SUSAN HIGBY HODKIEWICZ ’77 did extensive remodeling in a farmhouse in Columbus, Wisconsin, prior to this place. – This time we live in a one-story that was built in 2003, on top of a hill, with great scenic views in all directions and plenty of updating to be done. Soooooo our new address is in Albany, Wisconsin.”

JOE KEEGAN had a “…great time catching up with PARKER VIVODA ’77 in St. Petersburg. He was in town enjoying the beaches with his wife and family. We are hoping for a Bucs/Green Bay NFC Championship game.”

In November, DAVE HANUS of Salem, Oregon, was “…headed to Newport, Oregon, to spend the weekend camping at Southbeach State Park (in a little RV 🙂 …I’m at that point that canvas in winter is not so much fun anymore) we are getting battered by a succession of Pineapple Expresses (aka atmospheric rivers). Amazing to watch the surf!! A third of a mile inland over the foredunes from the beach and we can feel it when the big waves make landfall!! Pretty cool…”

I heard from WILL HIGGINS of Indianapolis, Indiana, in October as he was passing through New Orleans looking for any classmates that might be in the area.  I think he is enjoying his retirement.

DAVE JUNG of Purcellville, Virginia, asked me to reach out to MATT LEISURE of Manheim, Pennsylvania, for an update. I had a great talk with Matt. He became a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor in 1988 and has been a Licensed Social Worker since 2001. Since 1988, he has been working as a therapist in substance abuse and outpatient mental health agencies. He is currently working as a partner for Psychological Associates of Lancaster, Inc. in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, since retiring from WellSpan Behavioral Health (formerly York Hospital) in 2019 where he had worked since 1995. Matt has been happily married to his wife Vickie since 1990.

JONATHAN LOEW says, “After 40 years practicing law, I’ve retired. To anyone on the fence about it, don’t think twice. We’ll be moving from Chicago to Colorado in the spring to join our three kids, who are all living there.”

PAUL NANCARROW of Eden Prairie, Minnesota, said, “Thanks for being in touch on behalf of the Class of 1978. I’ve got the #OneDayRally on my calendar now, and I’ll look forward to making that donation. These days I’m splitting my time between residences in Minnesota and Arkansas, in order to be close to different branches of the family. Having two home bases means having a lot more variety in my bicycle riding as well. I’ve been able to get out for a couple of road rides — even some gravel riding — in Arkansas already this year; that is something I would never have been able to do in Minnesota! I preach occasionally for churches when their regular priests are away, which also offers more variety than being the regular priest in the same parish every week. I don’t have any academic accomplishments to report, but I do keep writing regularly for my blog of theological reflections at paulsnancarrow.wordpress.com.”

JOE O’SULLIVAN of Roy, Washington, says, “I hope everyone is doing ok and adapting to such changes we all have had the last two years now! I am amazed how much our lives, work, and relationships have changed due to this ‘plague’!! Anyhow, since I have had a lot of free time, I am currently back in graduate school, online of course. I am at Purdue University taking Health Informatics Master’s degree. I should be done by October 2022. Writing two-three papers per week is not much fun and I am not sure yet what I will ultimately do with this degree, but it does help to keep the brain sharp. Otherwise, have been visiting grandkids, hiking, going to the gym daily, plus taking care of chickens, dogs, cats, and 20 acres about one hour south of Seattle. Still doing research grants and hope to have another federal grant approved soon as my last two grants expire in 2022. And as we all are getting about that age, I hope everyone is signed up for Medicare!!! Hahaha…Anybody visiting the area is always welcome to an open bedroom!”

At the suggestion of NANCY BUCK HINTZ ’82/P’10 who is already a board member, GREGG PETERSEN of Columbia, Maryland, joined the Western Great Lakes Bird and Bat Observatory Board of Directors in January. The WGLBBO (sometimes referred to as “Wiggly Bee Bow”) headquarters is located in Port Washington, Wisconsin. The Observatory’S mission is to advance the conservation of birds and bats in Wisconsin and throughout the Western Great Lakes Region through coordinated research, monitoring, and education. Why am I a member of a board back in Wisconsin? In addition to pursuing biology passions outdoors, the board meetings give me a great excuse to visit my mom and other family members in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin three times a year (at least!).

Faculty Updates of Interest:

ANITA WALLACE shared this update: “Olimpia Ogilvie’s daughter, Arabella, has set up a website on Olimpia and her work. Currently, there is an exhibition at the Minneapolis Institute of Art of Mauricio Lasansky’s The Nazi Drawings. Olimpia studied printmaking in Iowa under Lasansky. Thought some of you might be interested to see her amazing work and legacy.”

Professor of History Emeritus Bill Woolley’s latest book, “Creating the Modern Army: Citizen Soldiers and the American Way of War, 1919-1939,” will be published in March.

Sad News:

NATALIE S. ADAMS ’77 of Colorado Springs, Colorado, wife of former Ripon College president Bernard S. Adams, died Feb. 13, 2022. In Ripon, she was a founding member of the Green Lake Festival of Music, board member and president of the Ripon South Woods Park Association and a choir member at First Congregational Church. She enjoyed tennis and for one year coached the Ripon College women’s tennis team, leading to a conference championship. After retiring in Colorado, she was a member of Broadmoor Community Church where she was a member of the choir, chair of the Arts Committee and a lay caregiver minister. She also served as president of the Symphony Guild and volunteered at Pikes Peak Hospice. Survivors include one son and one daughter.

ANDREW “ANDY” MARVEL JR. ’77 of Weston, Massachusetts, passed away September 5, 2021, in Falmouth, Massachusetts. Andy majored in economics and modern architecture at Ripon, where he was also a member of Phi Delta Theta. He furthered his studies at the Boston Architectural Center, working for a variety of architects. This creativity evolved as the foundation for his business career when he founded Marvel Construction Co. in 1981, which he operated for over 40 years. Andy’s life revolved around his beloved wife, Elizabeth “Beanie” Marvel, who he married in 1987 and his three daughters, Stephanie and her husband Graham Allison of Cohasset, Jenna Marvel of Waltham, and Julia Marvel of Charlestown.

ROB “TEX” MEYER of Moscow, Idaho, succumbed to the effects from cancer on Nov. 22, 2021. At Ripon, he majored in drama and English and participated in College Days, Parallax, student government, WRPN Radio and theatre. He was a member of Theta Chi, Partners in the Legacy, Phi Beta Kappa, Alumni/Parent Admission Alliance, and the Alumni Board of Directors. He also served as Class Agent. He earned a master’s degree in education from Brown University. He worked as a journalist and English teacher, then as a freelance writer and editor after retiring. Pictured left, is ROB, at JFK’s eternal flame in Arlington National Cemetery when he visited in November 2009.

Annual Giving and #OneDayRally Coming Up on April 27th 
Annual Giving: We have 267 living alumni with 152 of those “solicitable.” Our 152 solicitable donors are the highest of any class before 1988 — thank you for being approachable! So…how does the Class of 1978 stack up to the other 81 alumni classes in the last year?

• #1 in total number of donors with 95.
• That’s 22 more classmates than the next closest – Class of 1969 with 73 donors.
• #2 in total participation at 62.5% – #1 is the Class of 1948 with 7 of 11 donors.
• #1 in participation to the Ripon Fund (formerly the Annual Fund) – 87 donors for 57.2%. The next closest class is the (11 alumni member) Class of 1948 with 54.6%.
• #1 in total number of donors to the Ripon Fund with 87 – 17 more than the next closest class, the just-graduated Class of 2021 with 70 donors.
• The only category we are not in the top ten is for total giving. And with that said, I would rather we be engaged as a larger group than focused on total dollars given. We all have many priorities of which Ripon is one.

#OneDayRally: Our goal for April 27th this year is to at least attain 78 donors for our Class of ’78 (#78for78) just like we did last year. That way other classes that want to achieve our gold standard will remember the number 78 stands for year group 78. In the month before he passed away, ROB MEYER pledged to give to the 2022 #ODR just like he did for every year since its inception, so I will be covering his pledge for him.

If you did not give last year, please consider doing so in 2022. It’s not about the amount, it’s about participation, showing our loyalty to Ripon, and our unity as a class. One of the key measures college rating services use to rate respective schools is alumni affinity. You can personally help Ripon boost that rating by making an annual donation.

Timing of giving: I know some of us like to give early in the year. I realize that it is not my place or ability to direct you to wait until late April to make your gift, but if you could make at least a nominal gift for the #OneDayRally, that helps our annual show of solidarity. Many of our 81 participants last year gave a second time to help our numbers for the #OneDayRally leaderboard.

This was one of the windows in Pickard Commons last #OneDayRally, April 28, 2021. The name of each of the #OneDayRally donors was written on a Rally sticker affixed to the windows. If you look closely, you may notice stickers displaying the names of nine of our 81 classmates who gave on this window: AL and SUSAN HIGBY HODKIEWICZ ’77, JIM WILKES, GRETA GLUEK PORTER, LISA WOLLAN, BETH BENEZRA, KAREN ROGERS YOUNG, JOHN ZINDAR, LARRY LAUX and NINA WULFF ’77, and HORACE and MARLA BRENDEN GARFIELD.

45th Reunion in 2023! Start planning for it! It will be June 22-25, 2023, and it will be here before you know it. For our last Reunion, we had so many folks come back that the College let us use the main meeting area in Harwood Memorial Union for our venue!! Let’s try to do that again. If you are interested in helping to plan our 45th Reunion, please let me know.

Why should you come back?

• Your friends!
• Great treatment by the College when you visit.
• The Heidel House has reopened!
• It will be FUN!
• Ripon is a great town! For example, various publications have recognized Ripon as having one of the Seven “Best Downtown Areas in Wisconsin,” one of “The 10 Most Magical Christmas Towns,” one of the 11 “Magical Main Streets In Wisconsin,” One of the “7 Small Towns In Wisconsin That Are Perfect For A Weekend Escape,” one of “5 Hallmark-worthy Wisconsin small towns to visit during the holidays,” and one of the “Coolest Small Towns in America.”

Class Letter Updates for Fall Letter:

Thanks again for the privilege of continuing as your Class Agent. Please make my job easy and keep sending in your updates or if you have never corresponded, let this next letter be the first one for your news! Your classmates always want to hear from you! If any of you would like to reach out to other classmates or faculty and need contact information, please let me know. I will do my best to find a way to help you reach out to them as we did with MATT LEISURE for this Class Letter. As a group, you are getting better and better at checking in and that eases my job of making these Letters interesting and informative.

Best wishes and warm regards,

GREGG PETERSEN
(202) 256-8166
Your 1978 Class Agent

Submitted by: Class Agent: Gregg Petersen

Greetings All,

As I did with the Fall Class Letter, I’m sweating out working up this Class Letter. This time I can put some of it on work and my big College-related activity (more on that later). But just so you know, as of the time of writing this Class Letter, both the Men’s and Women’s basketball teams are in first place in the Midwest Conference and they play their first game of the tournament tonight, Friday, February 25 in Ripon at the Willmore Center! But you didn’t come here to hear that talk. You want to know what’s going on with your classmates, so here it goes!!

CLASS OF 1979 NEWS AND NOTES

MIKE ZACH ’79: I have a new gig playing guitar and leading singing at various senior living facilities in our area! (If you have Facebook, check out MIKE singing. It’s good stuff.)

ROYCE DUNBAR ’79: As I write this Class Letter today, let me extend a Happy Birthday to ROYCE. He’s been busy living the retired life having recently visited Iceland.

BETH PALMBACH NEMECEK ’79: Today (the day I am writing this Class Letter) is also National Donor Day which is a day to celebrate the gift of love through organ, eye, and tissue donation. As we are very much aware, our own Beth is in need of a kidney. It can be from a living donor. She is still going strong, but let’s keep her in our thoughts and prayers. But in spite of all that, her spirit is still strong!!

STANLEY CIEWLEWICZ ’79: STAN died Nov. 11, 2020. At Ripon, he participated in forensics/debate, student government, theatre, and ROTC. He received a degree in Foreign Service from Georgetown University and a doctor of jurisprudence from the University of Idaho in Moscow, Idaho. He retired in June 2019 after 37 years in federal service from the Office of the Judge Advocate, U.S. Army Europe. He had served as an active-duty officer, an Army and Air Force reserve officer, and as a civilian attorney in several assignments around the world. He was renowned throughout Europe and across the Services for his expertise in contract and fiscal law and was the U.S. Army Europe expert on Acquisition and Cross Servicing Agreements.

Kevin Warmack ’79: On Thursday, February 10, 2022, I along with three other Black Ripon Alumni (BLAINE GIBSON ’81, NATASHA HOARD KING ’93, and ORNELLA UMUBYEYI ’13) participated in a panel discussion on Zoom with the Ripon College Center for Diversity and Inclusion. We were asked a series of opening questions about our lives at Ripon as persons of color. Let me say that I enjoyed every minute of the event. to hear how it went, click here.

NEWS AND NOTES FROM RIPON COLLEGE

College President:
Ripon College’s Board of Trustees has announced that Dr. Andrea Young will serve as the interim president of the College beginning in January 2022. As the first woman to lead Ripon College in its 170-year history, she will replace Dr. Zach Messitte, who announced last fall that he would be stepping down as Ripon’s 13th president at the end of the fall semester.

“Dr. Young understands what makes Ripon such a special place and has been a stellar administrator and professor at the College for more than a decade,” said TOM ABENDROTH ’81, chair of Ripon College’s Board of Trustees. “She has been a champion of the student experience and led the way on a number of important initiatives, including making better use of technology in the classroom and data in decision-making.”

As Ripon’s vice president for finance and director of strategic initiatives, Young oversees the business, financial and information technology functions of the College. She is the primary administrative liaison to the Board of Trustees on matters related to finance, investment, construction contracts and approval, risk management and audit. In addition, she is spearheading Ripon’s exploration of a partnership with Marian University in Fond du Lac.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve Ripon College as the interim president,” Young said. “I have seen firsthand the transformative potential of a Ripon College education, and I am deeply committed to promoting our student-centered approach to living and learning.”

Prior to her role as vice president for finance, Young served as the acting dean of faculty for a semester and received promotion and tenure to be an associate professor of mathematics in 2016. The winner of several teaching awards, she has published multiple peer-reviewed articles, including several co-written with Ripon students and faculty. She is the principal investigator on a successful National Science Foundation grant to improve undergraduate STEM education.

Young also served as special assistant to the president and liaison to the Board of Trustees where she led a number of strategic initiatives that focused on the student experience, including promoting academic success.

Young received her Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Texas-Austin and her B.S. in mathematics with a minor in Italian from Pennsylvania State University.

The Presidential Search Committee:
In spite of the wishes of BOB SCHMITT ’79, I am not a candidate for the Office of President of Ripon College. However, The Board of Trustees has approved the formation of the Presidential Search Committee. Members of the committee will work closely with executive search firm Russell Reynolds Associates, which was selected to manage the search process based on their depth and breadth of specialized expertise and high-touch client approach.

The search committee will actively engage the immediate and extended Ripon College community in the search, review the credentials of interested candidates, select a group of finalists to interview, and present to the Board a candidate they believe is best-prepared to lead the College into the future. Members were selected from among nominated faculty, staff, students, administration and the greater Ripon community.

Members include:

• Chair: MARK FRANZEN ’83, Trustee
• Administrative Liaison: Kara Kinas Jankowski, chief of staff to the president and dean of faculty
• Committee Members: TOM ABENDROTH ’81, chair of the Board of Trustees; Nick Eastman, assistant professor of educational studies; JACKIE HANSON ’23, current student; DANTE HOUSTON ’01, Trustee; SHAWN KARSTEN ’09, vice president for Advancement, and Marketing and Communications; Memuna Khan, professor of biology, chair of the Department of Biology; Linda Kinziger, director of financial aid; Rebecca Matzke, associate dean for faculty development and Ralph Hale Ruppert Distinguished Professor of History; Tom Moniz, attorney with Von Briesen & Roper, S.C., community representative; CONNIE HERBON MOSER ’84, Trustee; Travis Nygard, associate professor of art history, co-director of the Caestecker Gallery; CARRIE ROCA-DAWSON ’94, member of the Alumni Association Board of Directors; LISA WOLLAN ’78, Trustee; and KIMBERLY WOOLLEY ’94, Trustee.

As always, it is a pleasure to write to y’all.

Also, when you got news, don’t hold on. Drop me a note so I can make your Class Letter the best!!!

Love Always,

KEVIN L. WARMACK ’79
(773) 220-5360 / [email protected] / [email protected]
Your 1979 Class Agent

Submitted by: Class Agent: Kevin Warmack

Classmates,

Welcome to 2022. I’ve always been an optimist, but this time I really think the world is showing signs of returning to somewhat of a normal life for all of us.

Thanks again to all of you who were able to make it to our 40th Reunion event in August. KATHY HARBUT NIKOLAUS ’81 and I really regret having to miss it. Despite all the COVID-19 turmoil, the Class of ’81 continued to be generous. In the 2021 fiscal year, our Class donated $25,945. Our contributions make a difference in helping Ripon College and its students to thrive.

Great news, the 2022 Alumni Weekend will return to its traditional schedule and be held on campus, June 23-26, 2022. The schedule will include 2022 Class Reunions, and options for campus tours, socials, activities, reminiscences, and plenty of time to explore campus and connect with each other. So if you were like me, and you could not attend last year’s Alumni Weekend events, put this on your calendar and check the website for details.



As you may know, the College is busy looking for a new President. Thanks to President Zach Messitte who ended his ten-year run as Ripon’s 13th president at the end of the 2021 fall semester and to Dr. Andrea Young who has been appointed Ripon College’s interim president.

Are you interested in keeping up with what is going on with our Alma Mater? For the latest goings-on and stories about Ripon College, alumni, and even some of our favorite professors, check out R Connections online at alumni.ripon.edu/rconnections. Also, be sure to check the latest news from the College at ripon.edu/news.

Back in our day, especially for us science geeks, Farr Hall was home almost as much as the dorms were. In a February article in the Ripon Commonwealth Press, Interim President Young gave an overview of the College’s plans for a major renovation of Farr Hall, upgrades of the residence halls, and plans for building a campus stadium on Lower Sadoff. You can check out the story here.

After 20 years in the Air Force and 20 more years supporting the Air and Space Forces with MITRE, I have decided it is time for us to retire and live the good life. KATHY and I are already making plans for more biking, hiking, and camping in Colorado and seeing more of the country and the world. Hopefully, it will give us opportunities to see some of you. We had the chance to spend Christmas with all of our kids in an awesome cabin in Buena Vista, Colorado. That also gave us the chance to visit with SETH WILLIAMS ’81 and LYNN FRISVOLD WILLIAMS ’80 in their new mountain home.

Scouting still fills my free time and keeps me young. In December, I had the pleasure of introducing my 77th Eagle Scout after 17 years as a Scoutmaster. This summer, I get to show the Scouts that the “old man” still has it when I join them for a 50-plus-mile canoe trip in the Boundary Waters of Minnesota.

Class Notes:

KAREN CHARLESTON ’81 of Battle Creek, Tennessee: After more than 30 years as a wildlife biologist, KAREN retired in 2009 to become a dog trainer. As a wildlife biologist, she worked actively with waterfowl and gamebirds. Trumpeter Swan and Hooded Mergansers were her passion. In Michigan, she held the first Trumpeter Swan cygnets (as an extirpated species…once wild…but none living wild in-state) being hatched in her hands. Now they are thriving. Now, she boards and trains dogs. She was actively competing on a national level in obedience with her Labs, Flint and Ciara, but has backed off that since COVID-19 hit.

BLAINE GIBSON ’81 of Grafton, Wisconsin: BLAINE is honored to join Ripon’s Board of Trustees and enjoys that it allows him to get to go back to Ripon on a regular basis. He had the chance to reconnect with MARK KSOBIECH ’81 (a fellow Beta Sig). After a two-year COVID-19 travel drought they are finally vacationing again and headed to Puerto Rico this month for a much-needed vacation.

DAVID JANSSEN ’81 and KRISTIN KOHLES JANSSEN ’82 of Oshkosh, Wisconsin: DAVE is still practicing at Fox Valley Plastic Surgery with no plans to retire yet. He and KRISTIN are looking forward to the birth of their Colorado granddaughter due on April 26 and their son, Geoff, and Cleo’s wedding in 2023. They are traveling a lot with a big trip to Egypt planned for October.

JODY HENDERSON-SYKES ’81 of Franklin, Wisconsin: JODY has been enjoying retirement, playing senior volleyball and softball, working with youth and youth leaders at church, and grandmotherhood. Her three daughters live in different states so that gives her a good reason to travel. Her oldest, MEAGAN SYKES-GEORGE ’09, and her husband, Major GREGORY GEORGE ’09, have four boys, ages seven, five, three, and one, and live in Colorado Springs now. The boys are quite energetic! In addition to visiting them for the holidays and birthdays, she really enjoyed visiting Zion National Park and Death Valley National Park in January with her sister. Her son finished his college soccer career last fall and is now focused on finishing school. The new news is that she just accepted a part-time job as an educator with the non-profit Sharp Literacy and is looking forward to working with them to teach their STEAM curriculum.

SUSAN “SUKI” FORREST-LOBB JEFFREYS: SUSAN, sorry, SUKI, is living in Phoenix, Arizona, and was recently featured in the new book Women of Courage, vol. 5, published by Professional Woman Publishing. The book was released in February and is an anthology featuring stories of and thoughts about courage by SUKI and 24 other women around the world.

After retiring from a career in corporate information technology, SU
KI became a life coach and founded Courage Rises life and courage coaching. She is creating a movement where women feel safe to work through fears by understanding their behavior and experiencing the transformational aspects of courage. SUKI also has a blog where you can some of the awesome video interviews she has produced.

Some sad news:

LAWRENCE SMITH, JR. ’81 of McLean, Virginia, died Sept. 28, 2021. At Ripon, he was an All-American wrestler and a member of Phi Delta Theta. He also wrestled at Ball State University. He worked for Brooks Brothers and Cuffs in Washington, D.C., and the family business, Rodes Clothing, in Columbus, Indiana, and Louisville, Kentucky. In the Washington, D.C., area, he coached for the Capital Area Wrestling League where he cultivated several champions including his son, Trey, and Olympic Gold Medalist Helen Maroulis. He was a member of Ducks Unlimited, an avid hunter, and especially enjoyed training Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. Survivors include his wife, Nicole; and one son.

PATRICK TESTER ’81 of Texas died on January 29, 2021. He spent a year at Ripon and participated in Theta Sigma Tau. He then joined his family in Fort Worth, Texas, and attended Texas Christian University. He worked in education for more than 25 years in Austin, Denver, and, primarily, the Dallas Independent School district, focusing on special education. After retiring from education in 2006, he worked as a Realtor. He was an active member of Lions Club International.

Lastly, a plea for some assistance. For 40 years, the math and physics education I received from Ripon has served me well. But, when it comes to social media, I am lost in the woods. Therefore, I am looking for a classmate to help as a Co-Class Agent to help to improve the social media presence for our Class of ’81. Even some temporary support would be appreciated. Please contact me if you are able to help and would like to become a Co-Class Agent.

Thanks to all of the Class of ’81. When you have stories to share please send them my way at [email protected] or submit them on the Alumni page at alumni.ripon.edu/services/update-info/.

Here’s a picture of me, my wife, KATHY HARBUT NIKOLAUS ’81, SETH ’81 and LYNN FRISVALD WILLIAMS ’80. Feel free to send me your pictures with fellow alumni for our next Class Letter.

Best wishes,

Larry Nikolaus
(719) 314-5531
Your 1981 Class Agent

Submitted by: Class Agent: Larry Nikolaus

Dear Classmates,

It is the spring of 2021 and I am still working from home. Our hope is to start back to the office in April for two days a week. This Class Letter is being written from the airport as I await my first work trip flight since the fall of 2019 (which also seems unbelievable). Looking forward to leaving below zero temperatures for beautiful Palm Springs and enjoying a couple of days golfing, as well.

JOHN CLAY ’83 is thoroughly enjoying retirement and is able to watch almost every Olympic event. Colorado continues to call with family visits and especially to see our grandson who will be turning one in April. We have a road trip planned for the end of March and looking forward to seeing them. In July, we are heading out on a 17-day road trip to Banff with some good friends. Hopefully, we remain good friends after this excursion, but we are not too worried.

Here are the updates at the time that this Class Letter is being written:

• MARGARET ALGAR AARON ’83 of Oregon, Wisconsin, writes, “My husband and I are fully retired. 2020 brought the gift of a new granddaughter. I am studying Spanish and hope to do volunteer work with Spanish-speaking people.”
• A new book by Professor Emeritus of History William J. Woolley P’92 will be published in March by the University Press of Kansas titled, “Creating the Modern Army: Citizen Soldiers and the American Way of War, 1919-1939.” Dr. Woolley taught at Ripon from 1969 to 2001, and the book was inspired by the course American Military Institutions that he taught at Ripon.
• Ripon Hall of Fame Coach Bob Gillespie P’03/P’11 was inducted into Lewis University’s Academy of Coaches. He was honored with three others during halftime of the Lewis University men’s basketball game Saturday, Jan. 15. Gillespie is the winningest coach in Ripon College history in both baseball and men’s basketball.
• #OneDayRally was a great success last spring and we look forward to positive results for the 2022 #OneDayRally. More to come, mark your calendar for 4/27/22, and note that there will be a focus to invite new donors to be a part of a matching gift offering.
• Ripon graduation will be held on May 15th this year with plans to return to pre-COVID traditions.
• Ripon was recognized by onlyinyourstate.com as having one of the “Seven Best Downtown Areas in Wisconsin!” And, it was recognized as “One of the 10 Most Magical Christmas Towns” in Wisconsin.
• Alumni Weekend will be held 6/23-6/26/22, highlights include –
  • All-Class Gathering at Roadhouse Pizza – Thursday evening
  • Doc Weiske ’50 Memorial Golf Scramble at The Golf Courses of Lawsonia – Friday
  • Lunch and Wine Tasting – Friday
  • Campus Tours, Faculty Talks – Friday
  • Rally Walk/Run – Saturday morning
  • Greek Socials, “That Was Then” Storytelling Session – Saturday
  • Farewell Brunch – Sunday

Thanks for your continued support and involvement with Ripon College. Our 40th Reunion is just around the corner… June 22-25, 2023! Mark your calendars.

BARB WILLIAMS CLAY
(612) 749-5010
Your 1983 Class Agent

Submitted by: Class Agent: Barb Williams Clay

Dear Classmates,

I am starting our Class Letter out with a tribute to our dear classmate who left us too early.

MARY PURDO PEKSA ’85 of Ringle, Wisconsin, died Oct. 17, 2021. At Ripon, she majored in physical education and was a member of Alpha Delta Pi. She received a degree in nursing from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. She worked for 30 years in cardiac health and rehabilitation at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. On her hobby farm, she raised sheep, chickens and yellow Labradors, and tended apple trees, a pumpkin patch and many gardens. She enjoyed biking, cross-country and downhill skiing and hiking. She also was a member of golf and curling leagues. She was active in St. Michael’s Catholic Church and enjoyed cooking and baking. Survivors include her husband, JAMES “JIM” PEKSA ’85; one son; and a brother-in-law, RICHARD PEKSA ’83.

As I reflect on the loss of our classmate MARY, I am reminded of the fragility of life. How it can be taken from any one of us at any given moment. My sincere condolences to JIM and his family. My brother recently passed away, so I find myself on a similar journey, grieving over the loss of a loved one. This fragility inspires me to embrace the miracle of life even more. Living and being surrounded by loved ones and enjoying life every day are good reminders for all of us to fuel our life journey with an abundance of love, happiness, adventure, energy, hope, inspiration – all the good things in life.

In addition to reflecting on the fragility of life, I’m reminded of the importance of “family” – whether we’re directly related or not – we can exemplify all the great things a family represents in our circle of friends, contacts, colleagues and yes, fellow classmates. Our class of over 250 Riponites is one heck of a large family. Each of us touches many lives and can have a significant impact reminding others about the importance of nurturing our life journey by taking good care of one another and treating each other like family. Today’s struggles are real – more than ever our world needs love, kindness, and compassion.

Our senior year, I was an RA on the fourth floor of Johnson Hall where Alpha Delta Pi resided. I can still see MARY’s brilliant smile – warm and welcoming; hear her laughter – genuine and sincere; and remembering how she was always ready to lend a helping hand, never hesitating to go out of her way to help others. Something truly to be emulated by all of us.

Let us remember MARY for all her amazing attributes – let us continue her legacy by reminding ourselves daily to practice random acts of kindness, go out of our way for others and embrace all the wonderful joy life offers and most important – live life to the fullest.

A message from JIM PEKSA ’85: “MARY did everything right by today’s medical standards and still lost her life to metastatic breast cancer. She was a 30 year medical professional and passionate about health her entire life. She began getting mammograms at age 35 because she had a history of cancer in her family (not breast cancer). What we quickly learned when she became symptomatic at age 51 was that mammograms can only detect 85% of breast cancers – the other 15% (lobular carcinoma) need to be diagnosed by ultrasound testing. However, most insurance plans will not pay for a preventative ultrasound so these cancers go undetected until it is too late. We lived with a false sense of security while her cancer grew in her for multiple years until it metastasized. I think we as a society are largely brainwashed in that regard. Mammograms, self-inspections, etc., are good – but they are not good enough. We can do better. One in eight women in America will develop some form of breast cancer in their lives. It is safe to say it will touch all of us at some point. If we are diligent the 85% have a fighting chance to beat cancer through early detection by an annual mammogram or 3D mammogram. The other 15% (like MARY) are at a much higher risk of losing that battle until ultrasound becomes the standard for early detection. How do we shine a light on that? If anything good can come of MARY’s passing, I think legislating that change to early detection practices would be a worthy legacy. I am encouraged by President Biden’s ‘Moonshot Initiative’ to reduce cancer by 50% – now we just have to figure out how to get this on that agenda.”

MARK YOUR CALENDAR: 

Ripon’s #OneDayRally – April 27, 2022
Alumni Weekend – June 23-26, 2022

CLASS OF 1985 NEWS:

KARA ZARTNER WOODS ’85 of Prescott, Arizona, is a candidate for Arizona State Superintendent of Public Education. She is a wife/military spouse, mother, grandmother, teacher, PUSD school board member, and small business owner. Her platform is as follows:

“I believe America is the land of opportunity and a great place to live and raise a family. I am a life-long Republican, Precinct Committeeman, and YavGOP Treasurer. I have degrees in Mathematics and Physics from Ripon College, Ripon, Wisconsin. I believe we in Arizona can do better for our children. Our children deserve the right to be well educated. Arizona K-12 education is ranked 48th in educating our youth in the United States and 47th in the amount spent on each student. Although I do not believe there is a 100% correlation between money spent and a good education, I would like to increase spending per student in Arizona to help make our students more competitive in the world economy. Fiscal transparency is necessary to clearly show constituents how our tax monies are being spent and push more money down to the district level where the education of our students happens without raising school taxes. Motivate parents and community members to get involved in their local schools by volunteering in classrooms, monitoring school boards, and taking back control of what is taught in their schools.”

STACY HEINRICH SHUDA ’85 of Faribault, Minnesota, writes, “In August 2021, I switched jobs at the United States Postal Service. I changed from UNIX systems administrator to Solutions Architect II.”

Joy and Peace,

HEATHER MCFADDEN BARRIE ’85/P’20
(262) 628-1377
Your 1985 Class Agent

Submitted by: Class Agent: Heather McFadden Barrie

Dear Class of ’89,

Hope this finds you all well. Hard to believe we are entering our third year with the cloud of COVID-19 hanging over us all, but with vaccines, it seems possible to get back to some of things we love like travel and seeing friends and family. ERIK ’89 and I, in fact, are looking forward to a very belated anniversary trip to LA at the end of February, where we will have the pleasure of seeing MITCH ROSIN ’89 and JAMES MADDISON ’89 and BETH VASEY MEYER ’90 (even celebrating JAMES’ birthday)! As for MITCH, he is in the middle of writing his doctoral dissertation. . . Yup, who would have ever thought! He also splits his time between California and New York, so drop him a note if you are in the neighborhood.

Many of you may be aware through Facebook that we lost our classmate, KEVIN “FLOUNDER” NORRIS ’89, who passed away on January 2. DAVE TROY ’90 wrote a nice tribute online: “KEVIN was a great person who loved life. Those of us who fondly remember him from his college years, recall ‘Flounder’ being a source of joy to all his friends. Whether playing Santa, training a profane parrot, playing rugby, inner tube water polo or drinking upside-down while doing a headstand, KEVIN made us all smile. We love and miss you, Brother.”

Other updates since our last letter:

In November, Ripon College finally paid the respects due to our classmate, Army Capt. PAUL J. CASSIDY ’89 who died of non-combat injuries in 2003 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He became the most recent designate to the College’s War Memorial (see picture). As a civilian, he was assistant to the clerk, Mary Helmbrecht, at Meridian Township in Michigan. “PAUL had made a life out of helping people in troubled regions,” Helmbrecht said. “His mission to Iraq with the Army Reserves was similar to previous duties in Kosovo, Bosnia, and Kuwait, where he distributed food and blankets and helped reconstruct power grids, improve phone lines, re-establish farms, provide water and repair houses. He was basically in there to help people, doing humanitarian deeds, the nice things.” Here is an article that was featured by Ripon College.

TED HARWOOD ’89 of Conroe, Texas, is celebrating 20 years with ExxonMobil, currently in Global Security. His oldest daughter is attending Texas A&M in the engineering program, and he reports that, “the dog doesn’t freak out anymore when we wear masks.”

KRIS PEHLE GRASSE ’89 of Bristow, Virginia, will be retiring in June from teaching elementary school for 17 years, and says she is, “looking for a new adventure!”

Congratulations to Battalion Chief CHRIS HANNES ’89 of Kenosha, Wisconsin, who received his final tone-out in December, closing out 24 years of service with the Kenosha Fire Department.

Starting last October, ALICE GALLAGHER ARCHABAL ’89 of Northbrook, Illinois, is on the Board of Trustees for the College. Way to represent, Al Gal!

RODNEY DEAN SCHULZ ’89 of Slinger, Wisconsin, writes, “Our first grandson turned one in August. Number two is due in December.”

It is fun to see the gatherings of classmates through Facebook, whether it is for a football game, wedding, or simply dinner. Keep sharing and we will look forward to our next chance to see you all in real life.

Truly,

NIKKI ZENS LINDBERG

MITCH ROSIN

Your 1989 Class Agents

Submitted by: Class Agents: Mitchell Rosin & Nicole Zens Lindberg

Dear Class of 1991,

I’m hoping that by the time this Class Letter arrives Omicron will be further on the wane and a new variant won’t have cropped up to wreak havoc!

Thanks so much to everyone who was able to make a financial contribution in the past fiscal year for supporting the College, especially through donating to the Ripon Fund and participating in #OneDayRally. Your generosity enabled the Class of ’91 to contribute $25,638.32 in 2021 giving.

Save the Dates:

• #OneDayRally is scheduled for Wednesday, April 27, 2022. More information will be forthcoming.
• Alumni Weekend: June 23-26, 2022.

On a fun note, the College’s interim president has a new Twitter: twitter.com/RiponPrez and Instagram: instagram.com/riponprez/ that you are invited to follow.

Obituary:
MARK SCOTT ’91 of Racine, Wisconsin, died Sept. 13, 2021. At Ripon, he majored in politics and government and played basketball. He worked as a procurement specialist with SuperValue, then with WE Energies. Since 2009, he worked with Miller Brewing, now Molson/Coors, most recently as senior category manager of capital expenditures. He loved all sports and watching Wisconsin teams. He coached and supported his children in sports and all other endeavors. Survivors include three children; and his companion, Jennifer Altenbach Maxwell.

Class Notes:
TINA BENSHEL ’91 writes: For the last three years, I have been working as an on-site Project Manager for The Ohio State University. We have been conducting a Department of Defense-funded study to ascertain if peer mentoring can reduce suicidal behaviors at a military installation. As of March this year, I will be working full-time in the Mental Health Clinic at Whiteman Air Force Base. My hubby and I are hoping our postponed 25th anniversary trip to Greece will be able to happen this year if the world ever settles on its new normal.

ERIKA DAVISON-AVILES ’91 writes: I am Co-founder and Head of Product for TempoPay. A new payment solution for employees to manage medical expenses not covered by traditional medical expenses. We are launching this July. On the family front, our family is doing well. My stepsons are at UW Milwaukee and Utah State. My daughter got married last May at the Paine ArtCenter in Oshkosh and lives in St. Louis Park, Minnesota. My son is serving with the 101st Airborne 3rd Brigade Combat Team. My husband, Kevin, and I live in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

KARL FELD ’91 writes: KARL is finally marrying Lindsay Gardner this October, after a two-year delay and multiple foiled attempts due to COVID-19. KARL was also recently admitted to the Raleigh Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution where he voluntarily serves as Communications Director. Check out the Facebook page at sarraleigh. He was also just accepted into the Cary, North Carolina chapter of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War. His middle daughter, Amelia, graduates from high school this Spring. One left to go!

RICHARD KASSON ’91 writes: Entering my 25th year of practicing law here in San Antonio, Texas. It will be our 23rd wedding anniversary in April. My son, Pierce, is graduating high school and is mulling over the big college selection decision and my daughter, Hadley, is a freshman in high school. All good in Texas!

STEVE WOOLEY ’92 writes: I got to spend time with SCOTT BOBACK ’91 in August and saw firsthand the lab that he created and cared for over the years. I doubt there are many like it. Dr. SCOTT BOBACK ’91 Carlisle, Pennsylvania, was promoted this year to Full Professor of Biology at Dickinson College. As the son of a Ripon faculty member, I know what a huge accomplishment that is and should be recognized and celebrated.

SCOTT is doing great work at Dickinson – as a teacher and researcher. His devotion to teaching – something he picked up at Ripon – and research in animal ecology with a focus on constrictors are producing interesting results. Although I do not have any expertise on the topic, the fact that I read an article in which Dr. BOBACK was quoted means that he is recognized in the field.

More News: 

• News stories published by the College: ripon.edu/news/
• Latest Ripon Magazine, which includes features of alumni and faculty: ripon.edu/about-ripon/publications/

We love hearing from you!
You don’t need to wait to send an update – send one anytime (like today, as soon as you’re done reading this) and I’ll be sure to include it in the next letter. Or, send an update to the College and they’ll pass it along.

Do you need to update your email address on file?
Please be sure to update your email address (and other contact information) at: ripon.edu/update-contact-info/

We have a Facebook group:
If you’re on Facebook, please ask to join our “Ripon College Class of 1991” private group for updates and Ripon news. Alternatively, send your email address to [email protected] or text me at 612-978-4124 and I can add you to the group that way.

Warmly,

SAMANTHA BAILEY FAST ’91
(612) 978-4124

TRACY MAHER ’91
Your 1991 Class Agents

Submitted by: Class Agents: Samantha Bailey Fast and Tracy Maher

Hi All,

I hope you are all doing well, staying healthy, and keeping busy. It seems like there’s never a dull moment lately, right? I, for one, could use a few dull moments right about now. Anyway, let’s jump right into some Ripon updates!

The search is on for Ripon College’s 14th president. Dr. Andrea Young currently serves as the interim president while the search continues. Read more about it here.

Remember walking downtown from campus? Did you know that Ripon was recognized as having one of the “7 Best Downtown Areas in Wisconsin?” Actually, Ripon, Wisconsin has received numerous accolades recently:

• One of the 10 Most Magical Christmas Towns – Dec. 2021
• One of 7 Best Downtown Areas – Dec. 2021
• 11 Magical Main Streets in Wisconsin – Oct. 2021
• 7 Small Towns in Wisconsin that are Perfect for a Weekend Escape – Aug. 2021

Also, this summer’s Alumni Weekend will be June 23-26, 2022. Even though we are not celebrating a Reunion this year, we are all invited to attend. It is always a memorable weekend.

And now, news from our Class:

DON FRANCIS ’93 of Platteville, Wisconsin, rejoined the workforce this past summer after a long pandemic hiatus. DON began employment in a new field: the nonprofit sector. He serves as a nonprofit administrative assistant for Inspiring Community, Inc. in Platteville. He continues to volunteer for the PTO along with a local arts group that created an annual Chalk & Cheese Fest for chalk artists of any level. While virtual-schooling his two kids is in the past, his wife, Kelly, will work-from-home permanently, and the addition of a mini-Aussiedoodle puppy named Georgia is a reminder of something good that came during the pandemic.

Make sure you keep your contact information updated so you don’t miss any Ripon College news. Contact the Office of Constituent Engagement directly with changes at [email protected] or via U.S. mail to Alumni Office, Ripon College, 300 West Seward Street, Ripon, WI 54971.

Check in on the College’s website and/or social media for the latest College updates. If you’re not part of the “Ripon College Class of 1993” Facebook group, please join!

Thank you and stay well!

MELINDA TRAINOR HUTCHINSON ’93
(215) 704-6478
Your 1993 Class Agent

Submitted by: Class Agent: Melinda Trainor Hutchinson

Hello, Class of 1994,

I hope you are all staying healthy and strong – we are all going to need our strength as the majority of us turn 50 this year. We are now likely as old (or older) than our parents were when they dropped us off at Ripon in the summer of 1990.

Milestone birthdays make me reflect on what I have accomplished and what I still want to achieve. If you are on Facebook, you may have seen KATE MCELDERRY HARRISON ’94’s post on January 19 regarding her five reflections for five decades. I loved what she wrote. So with her permission, I’m sharing portions of her post. I hope it inspires you as much as it did me.

1. Every stage of life is a gift. Don’t wish to be a different age. Own it! Adopt a Growth Mindset and the learning never stops, whatever age you are. This mindset, in my opinion, is the tonic of youth and has nothing to do with age!

2. Time is a non-refundable resource. You never get it back. Time simply doesn’t stand still. How and with whom we spend it matters and shapes your life accordingly. Spend time on things that matter and remember that those things take time. Combine time with effort and you have a beautiful, winning combination–one that leads to trust, experiences, memories, not to mention lasting, and enduring relationships. (There are no shortcuts to this!)

3. Children don’t always suck. [OK, I confess this is my snarky title, not KATE’s – her version was much more positive.] Whenever and if ever children–one’s own or someone else’s–grace your life, celebrate them and learn from them. (They are some of the best teachers you will EVER have!) Moreover, children give purpose and meaning to life. They motivate us to clean up the oceans and make the world a more peaceful, just, and sustainable place.

4. Difficulties, loss, and pain are real. They hit us all in some shape or form. It’s not a comparison game and one’s truth and experience is one’s personal reality. Hence, empathy is the way, as is patience. (Patience with others and also ourselves.) If we are patient and willing to push through, adversity can bring with it energy, and if we choose it, a positive energy that can lead to creative and good works.

5. Shared humanity is a gift. Tea with a friend, a beer in the pub, a meal with your family… and also clapping as part of an audience, having a conversation with a stranger, being part of a community, working for a cause… it’s not about you. It’s not about me. But it really IS about the WE in life. Shared humanity is rich and life-affirming. It reminds us what a beautiful, diverse, and interesting world we live in and that everyone deserves a chance. The energy, wisdom, warmth, and LOVE that we can gain from learning and sharing within our local patch, and the world at large, adds a richness and joy not to be missed out on! Shared humanity is a global mindset; it keeps us connected, validated, open, and humble.

Update on the College

In September 2021, President Zach Messitte announced his plan to leave the College at the end of the 2021 fall semester following nine years of impressive leadership. The Board of Trustees of the College approved the formation of the Presidential Search Committee to actively engage the immediate and extended Ripon College community to search for, and review the credentials of, interested candidates. The Search Committee will ultimately select a group of finalists to interview and then present to the Board of Trustees a candidate they believe is best-prepared to lead the College into the future. CARRIE ROCA-DAWSON ’94 and I are both on the Search Committee, along with nominated faculty, staff, students, community members and other alums. We know that the next President of Ripon has the power to shape the future of the College and impact the students significantly, so we take this obligation very seriously.

Ripon’s annual giving day, known as #OneDayRally, will be held on Wednesday, April 27th. Please save this date and if you can donate, support the Ripon Fund and post about it on social media. I know many of you give to the College on an annual basis. Thank you for all of your contributions. If you cannot help financially, please consider reaching out to the College to volunteer on behalf of the alumni or admissions office, or become a mentor to current students for career and professional development.

Alumni Weekend is June 23-26, 2022. If you are looking for a chance to connect with fellow classmates, Alumni Weekend is always fun. Please stay tuned for updates on the event.

Class Notes

Thank you to the classmates who reached out to me with updates. Here are what some of our classmates are up to:

ANDREW LIMOURIS ’94 of Glen Ellyn, Illinois, is the recipient of the 2021 Hellene of the Year Award from the Hellenic Bar Association Foundation (HBAF). He is the president and CEO of Medix and Talentoday, a family of companies specialized in connecting talent to the right career opportunities and supporting employers with the right workforce solutions. ANDY founded Medix in 2001 based on the mission and purpose of positively impacting lives and strives to recruit others who live the company’s core values. He is a proud Hellene and supporter of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago. He and his family are parishioners at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, Elmhurst, Illinois. ANDY served on Metropolitan Nathanael’s transition team and as a member of the Metropolis Council of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago from 2018-2019. ANDY is also a frequent speaker for young adult ministries in the Metropolis focused on inspiring leadership in our youth.

DREW PETERSEN ’94 of Verona, Wisconsin, is the Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs at TDS Telecom and is receiving additional responsibilities and will now supervise broadcast television operations with Zolo Media. Zolo operates KOHD-TV the ABC affiliate, KBNZ-LP the CBS affiliate, COTV11, CO4 Visitors Network, and Central Oregon Daily, which provides targeted advertising solutions. Drew has been with the company for 24 years and is the past president of the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents.

KATY HERBOLSHEIMER LINDBERG ’94 of Hastings, Minnesota, just bought a building in Historic Downtown Hastings that was built in 1876. She will be moving her Farmers Insurance office there after a total renovation. She would be happy to quote anyone’s insurance who lives in Minnesota, Wisconsin, or Illinois.

Our classmate SUSAN YUDS SHERBON ’94 of Machesney Park, Illinois, could use some support. SUE has been battling an aggressive form of breast cancer. She recently had brain surgery to remove lesions and at the time of writing this letter it appeared that surgery went well. SUE is also battling with tumors in her lungs that were not responding to a clinical trial. SUE is trying to keep positive but she needs her classmates to send her some “good vibes, well wishes, and love.” If you would like to help support SUE, please contribute at the following site: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-sue-her-kids?qid=c3b49d026b1406920a4feca9312a2fde

LISA SPROSTON SUTTER ’94 will be writing our next Class Letter in the Fall. If you have updates that didn’t make it into this letter, please reach out to her at [email protected] or contact me and I will make sure LISA receives the update.

In the meantime, I hope you have a very happy 50th birthday!

All the best,

KIMBERLY WOOLLEY ’94
LinkedIn / Facebook
Your 1994 Class Agent

Submitted by: Class Agent: Kimberly Woolley

Dear ’95 Classmates,

We survived a somewhat mild winter here in Wisconsin and have turned the corner towards spring. I’m sure everyone is looking forward to more daylight, summer vacations, outdoor concerts, and sporting events, and for some of you, college graduations or weddings for your children!

I was a bit hesitant to tell this “Ripon Pride” story, so I will keep it PG-13.
While attending a high school football game at Ingalls Field, seated directly behind me were a couple of cocky high school boys from Waukesha, who were bored with the game and started to get obnoxious. One of them said: “Who would want to go to Ripon College? Probably a bunch of morons.” “I’m sure they let anyone in this school.” I just couldn’t help myself, so I turned around and said: “Look, you little dips**ts, I went to Ripon College. It’s a great school. You would be lucky to earn a degree from there.” They didn’t say a word the rest of the game. Sometimes, you have to stand up for your school!!!

Graduation 2022:
The Commencement Ceremony for the graduating Class of 2022 will be held on Sunday, May 15th. Certainly, it would be nice to have a sunny, 75-degree day.

2022 Alumni Weekend:

Alumni Weekend is less than (four) months away.
The dates are June 23-26, 2022.
Although our Class does not have an official celebration planned, you are always welcome to attend any year.  More information will be available at alumni.ripon.edu/special-events/alumni-weekend/.

ROB NEUMAN and I will likely be there supporting the Athletic Hall of Fame Induction of KEVIN WEBER ’98 and MIKE MILBURN ’97, two tennis stars from the 1990s.

Giving and Upcoming #OneDayRally:
Thanks to all our Classmates who supported the College this past fiscal year, especially those who supported the Ripon Fund, as well as #OneDayRally.

The next #OneDayRally is scheduled for Wednesday, April 27. More information regarding #OneDayRally will be forthcoming. If you haven’t made your gift for this fiscal year as of yet, you can visit alumni.ripon.edu/give/make-a-gift/.

Hidden Gem in Ripon:
Next time you’re visiting Ripon College, check out J’s BBQ. They have great food, a nice selection of beer, and are right next door to campus. (No, they didn’t pay me to plug the restaurant) 😊

Links to News & Social Media:
Ripon College news: ripon.edu/news
Ripon College publications: ripon.edu/about-ripon/publications
Ripon College Center for Politics and the People: facebook.com/RiponCollegeCPP
Ripon College Center for Diversity and Inclusion: facebook.com/ripondiversity

Class Updates:
I did not receive any updates since our last Class Letter….no worries. If you have something to share, feel free to let me know and it will be included in the Fall 2022 Class Letter. It would be great to hear from you!

Have a great Spring and Summer, Class of 1995!

Take care and see you soon!

Sincerely,

TOM LUFT ’95
(920) 479-5323
Your 1995 Class Agent

Submitted by: Class Agent: Tom Luft

Happy Spring, Class of 1996!

I am hoping that 2022 is turning into a more normal year than the past few. I know that like a lot of you, this year I have several events that were postponed, so I am looking forward to trekking across the states again, hopefully, able to run into some of you during my travels.

I want to personally THANK all of you who have supported Ripon College this past fiscal year, especially those who supported the Ripon Fund, as well as #OneDayRally. Our class raised almost $16,000 with 20% of our class contributing. Let us try to match that or beat it in 2022!

Even though it is not our Reunion year, I encourage you to still consider making plans to attend Alumni Weekend on June 23-26, which, as of now, will be much more like the reunions that we knew from the past. The College hosts a wonderful weekend and is open to all alumni with lots of different activities.

We have one class note to share:

BRIAN NORTH ’96 of Madison, Wisconsin, is a Colonel in the U.S. Army. He recently completed two years in command of the 11th Signal Brigade at Fort Hood, Texas. He is currently on an Army fellowship to complete his Ph.D. in American History from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This summer he will report to the Pentagon where he will serve as the Director of the Army Initiatives Group, the army’s internal think-tank and strategic planning element. His wife, TANYA HENNES NORTH ’97, is currently completing post-graduate certifications in Biotechnology and Stem Cell Research before their move to Washington, D.C.

Lastly, thanks to everyone that keeps us posted on Facebook, Instagram, Zoom calls or whatever other social media platform you are using. It’s great to see the family pictures, amazing adventures, or those crazy status updates. It is wonderful to keep track of each other and their lives even though we might not see each other on a regular basis.

Here is to a great summer of 2022!

Regards,

JASON WOOD ’96
(201) 747-7719
Your 1996 Class Agent

Submitted by: Class Agent: Jason Wood

Dear Class of ’98,

Thanks as always for responding to my call for updates! It’s good to hear from you, especially when photos are involved.

Presidential Search
Former President Zach Messitte announced his departure last year, and the search for the next President is currently underway.

The leadership of the College is in the excellent hands of Dr. Andrea Young, who took over as the interim president in January. Keep up with her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RiponPrez and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riponprez/.

Classmate News
LARRY DAUGHERTY ’98 of Eagle River, Arkansas, will be climbing Mt. Everest in April/May 2022. LARRY attempted the peak in 2017, but had to turn around 335 agonizing feet from the top due to high winds on the South Summit.

KRISTIN DODDS ’98 of Greendale, Wisconsin, writes, “2021 was an exciting year for my family. I returned from a ten-month deployment to Lithuania as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve in May, I was named the first female parade marshal for our community Fourth of July parade, and we adopted a rescue dog, Nala (FKA Sky), in July. Nala joins our dog, Sensi, and cat, Callie.”

TREVOR DURHAM ’98 of Colfax, Washington, has a new role as Associate Vice President for Executive Communications for Washington State University Advancement.

As a reminder, we are all invited to attend Alumni Weekend this summer from June 23-26. Even when we are not celebrating a Reunion, Alumni Weekend is a great time to reconnect with fellow alumni and the Ripon College community.

KEVIN WEBER ’98 of Limerick, Pennsylvania, is a 2022 Ripon College Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee for his achievements on the tennis court. KEVIN will be honored on Friday night of Alumni Weekend (June 24) at the 1851 Awards Dinner and Program with his doubles partner, MIKE MILBURN ’97.

Congratulations, KEVIN!

Lastly, a couple of news bites from staff members of our era… former Director of Student Activities Eric Tammes is now Dr. Eric Tammes, after getting his Ed.D. this past December. And former Scott Hall Director Chris Clarke is returning to Wisconsin as the Dean of Students at Lawrence University. Welcome back to the Midwest, Clarke!

Until next time,

SARAH ENG ’98
(312) 404-6732
Your 1998 Class Agent

Submitted by: Class Agent: Sarah Eng

Dear Classmates,

We hope this Class Letter finds you well. We are not celebrating a reunion in 2022, but for those of you interested in visiting the campus and participating in reunion activities during Alumni Weekend, please mark your calendars for June 23-26, 2022.

We received word about some great efforts that two of our classmates have been up to. Please read about the community service efforts by U.S. Army Veteran JOSE TORRES ’99 here.

Another community service effort of interest led by ANDY VAN WIE ’99 of Waunakee, Wisconsin, is described here.

Please mark your calendars for the annual #OneDayRally, scheduled for Wednesday, April 27, 2022. We hope that you can participate in this annual effort to keep our alma mater strong. Every contribution helps!

Class Agent CHRISTINE GUY WINGET ’99 came up with a great idea in the interest of supporting diversity and inclusion within our 1999 class. For anyone interested in updating their Ripon College profile with the use of pronouns that best represent them as a valued classmate, please follow this link and complete this Google form.

The same form can be used to share any class updates you’d like to share. We are also hoping you will input any new hobbies you’ve started during the pandemic!

Class Notes

RACHEL THOMPSON CASEY ’99 proudly reports that her son, Alex Casey, will be attending Ripon in the fall as part of the Class of 2026.

CHRISTINE GUY WINGET ’99 has worked in traditional higher education for 22 years. She started a new job (virtual) at Keypath Education as a Placement Specialist where she helps find clinical placements for Family Nurse Practitioner students.

If you have any class updates, please send them our way, and we can include them in our future Class Letter.

Sincerely,

MIKE BERENS ’99
(617) 512-5753

CHRISTINE GUY WINGET ’99
(252) 367-9335
Your 1999 Class Agents

Submitted by: Class Agents: Mike Berens & Christine Guy Winget

Class of 2000,

Many thanks to those of you who supported the College this past fiscal year, especially those who supported the Ripon Fund, as well as #OneDayRally. Our class giving information is included in the linked Annual Giving Report. Two dates to put on your calendar for 2022: April 27, which is this year’s #OneDayRally, and June 23-26, which is Alumni Weekend 2022. The search for a new President is still underway at the time I’m writing this. Our interim President Dr. Andrea Young is on Twitter and Instagram with a uniform handle: @RiponPrez.

Some impressive news to share about a classmate:

KARL DAHLSTROM ’00 of Winnetka, Illinois, has been promoted to Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of PNE USA, Inc. (“PNE”). PNE is a renewable energy development company based in Chicago, Illinois, with a focus on creating, financing, and operating commercial-scale wind and solar power plants across the U.S.

I have been writing these Class Letters for over twenty years, and, unfortunately, my service as your Class Agent is waning. Someone who does not eschew social media as I do would be better suited for the coming years. Staying connected and “in the know” is important to me, but the Class of 2000 deserves a Class Agent who can add more value than I can. If you are interested in learning more about the position (a co-Class Agent to work with me on future Class Letters such as this one) and are interested in serving your classmates in this way, please reach out to me or directly to JOLENE RUEDEN SCHATZINGER ’07 at [email protected], who serves as the College’s Associate Director of Engagement.

Red Hawk forever,

ANDRE MIKSHA ’00
(317) 219-9275
Your 2000 Class Agent

Submitted by: Class Agent: Andre Miksha

Class of 2001!

As many of you have heard, Ripon’s 13th President, Dr. Zach Messitte, has left the institution to return to his hometown of Washington, D.C. Our beloved Alma Mater has now launched a full hiring campaign to replace the President. One of your very own, DANTE A. C. HOUSTON ’01, has been selected as a member of the Search Committee! Rest assured, the College is in great hands as we make this transition. Dr. Andrea Young has been named Interim President and has already paved the way for many new and exciting initiatives to come.

If you are anything like us, you needed something to look forward to in order to get through the struggle that continues to be the Global Pandemic. Great news from our Ripon – in-person events are back! The College has done an amazing job with ensuring faculty, staff, students, and alumni alike are kept safe on and off-campus and Ripon is ready to host upcoming events! Mark your calendars for these critical dates:

• April 27: #OneDayRally (nation-wide)
• May 14-15: Senior Class Commencement Weekend
• June 23-26: Alumni Weekend

#OneDayRally and Ripon Fund Updates: 

• Thank you to all who contributed to the 2021 Ripon Fund. Because of you, Ripon College achieved the highest fundraising year ever! This support will allow the College to continue to be one of the most affordable and accessible private colleges in the state while supporting critical campus projects!
• SAVE THE DATE! Ripon’s annual giving day, known as #OneDayRally, will be held on Wednesday, April 27.
  • All alumni are encouraged to sport their Ripon College attire and post it on their social media platforms.
  • If you are interested in being a Social Media Advocate to promote #OneDayRally, please email Kelly Nielsen, Director of Annual Giving, at [email protected] to receive a toolkit with resources in the days leading up to #OneDayRally.

Class Notes:

DANTE HOUSTON ’01 of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, has been promoted to Director with AMN Healthcare. AMN is the largest healthcare recruitment firm in the nation. He was also named to the Ripon College Board of Trustees, where he serves as Co-Chair of the Advancement Committee.

CLINT PRACHER ’01 of Austin, Texas, has accepted a role as Senior Technical Project  Manager with Insider, Inc. of New York, New York. He recently welcomed a new bundle of joy, his fur baby, Bacon.

DANA DELACH GARCIA ’01 of Plainfield, Illinois, serves as a Medical Doctor with a Hospice Facility in a Southern Suburb of Chicago, helping to provide quality, end-of-life care. She keeps busy with her three, rambunctious boys and her family’s Airedale fur baby, Chuey.

MIKE MISSAK ’01 of McHenry, Illinois, continues to run his annual fundraiser, Jeeps On The Run in Lake County, Illinois. It provides donations and support to the CEO Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. This was the ninth year he has led this effort. To date, he has helped raise over $800,000 in toys and donations.

We can’t wait to see you soon, whether it be in person or virtually. Keep sending us your updates or drop us a note/text just to say “hi.”  And please continue to stay safe, healthy, and happy!

DANTE A. C. HOUSTON ’01
(414) 378-4937

NICOLE BAUMANN-BLACKMORE ’01
(608) 513-9078
Your 2001 Class Agents

Submitted by: Class Agents: Nicole Baumann-Blackmore and Dante Houston

Dear Class of 2004,

As I write this update on the Sunday morning of the Super Bowl, I can guarantee that I was sleeping in Brockway Hall at this exact time twenty years ago. How can I be so certain? By mid-February, the swim season had just come to a conclusion which means I was undoubtedly enjoying life as a college student well into the morning. BEN ROTH and I “embraced” life that year with a fervor that provided us with a close relationship with the Dean of Students Office. (Yes, Dean CHRIS OGLE ’80 is still there!) Given how peculiar the past two years have been, it’s oddly comforting to be able to look back at a point in time with such clarity, something that seems to be in short supply lately. I am fairly confident that clarity was also in short supply the morning of February 13, 2002.

Working next to me right now are my fourth and sixth-grade daughters, cranking through their homework earlier than normal so that we can enjoy the Super Bowl with some friends tonight. While U2 was a decent halftime show in 2002, I’m infinitely more excited for the Dr. Dre/Snoop Dog experience that we have in store for us tonight. There is a pretty good chance that Dre or Snoop were also a part of that Sunday back in ’02.

One last note of update from the College. After a few years of goofiness, the traditional Alumni Weekend programming is making a return in 2022. June 23-26 are the dates, and as always, all are welcome regardless of reunion year. Related, and to reaffirm the aging process is indeed unstoppable, our 20th Reunion is coming up in 2024. If watching Dre and Snoop didn’t make you feel old, that sure will. Way to end on a low-note, right?

Life is weird, sure, but it’s also pretty amazing. Hopefully, you and yours find ways to focus on the amazing as you move out of this winter into the spring. I hope you enjoy these updates from your classmates.

Class Notes:

ABBY BINDER of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, writes, “I have grown my company, Abby Windows & Exteriors to a multimillion-dollar company with a team of over 25 employees. I also recently got engaged to my fiancé, Mandy. We split our time in Milwaukee and have a lake house on Legend Lake that we enjoy to fish, boat, and relax on with our three dogs. I hope everyone is well!”

LISA HENKE GRAF of Hortonville, Wisconsin, writes, “I recently accepted an IST Tech Integrator position with the Oshkosh Area School District. I miss teaching eighth-grade science, but I am enjoying my new role in coaching teachers to deliver content in engaging ways with technology. Pandemic Positive: We bought a new house and are enjoying settling in & making it our own!”

TAMMY JOHNSON of Antioch, Illinois, writes, “My wife, Becky, and I welcomed Finnegan Lee Johnson into the world a couple of weeks early on April 22, 2021. Big brothers Ryan (nine) and Reed (seven) cannot wait to teach him all about the joys of burping, wrestling on the couch, and Minecraft. We spent time this summer vacationing in Florida and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee as a new family of five. I am still teaching special education at Antioch Upper-Grade School and I am co-leading the Diversity Club. I am also very excited to be back on the court this year coaching girls basketball.”

DIANE KEELING of Darien, Wisconsin, writes, “I am closing out my two-year term as president of the Organization for Research on Women and Communication this February. TOM BECKER ’05 and I spent January skiing in Crested Butte, Colorado. Positive thing: I started water coloring weekly with friends across the U.S. online.”

KATE PETERSEN KINGREE of Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, writes, “We have a precocious, creative, kind, and loving two-year-old boy, William David Kingree, and my husband and I started a business in September 2021 called Kingree Law.”

LINDSEY GORSKE MICHELS of Ripon, Wisconsin, writes, “Last October, I started a new role within the Police Department: Community Liaison and School Resource Officer. During the school year, I am in our 4K-12 schools and in the summer I focus on community outreach. Joe and I continue to try and keep up with our almost eight-year-old son and our five-year-old daughter…Never thought the day would come when I would be sitting in the bleachers watching my kids in their activities, crazy how time flies!”

One positive thing that has happened over the past two years is the plethora of family time that we have gotten to spend together as we weren’t constantly busy!

LIZ KOEPNICK MILLER of San Marcos, California, writes, “We welcomed our son, Lane Allen Miller on November 1, 2020. He has brightened our days and Arielle (six) is the best big sister.”

CANDICE NORTH of Carmichael, California, writes, “My husband, Mo Cisse, and I are still actively funding the education for orphans in Nalerigu, Ghana through our nonprofit BOCAT. Although the pandemic definitely was a barrier to some efforts to expand the program, we have acquired land to someday build an actual orphanage there. If you’d like more information, check out our website www.bocat.net.”

RACHEL SCHMIDT PUFALL, previously of Ashland, Wisconsin, writes, “The Pufalls are now Kentuckians. At the start of 2022, we made the move to Berea, Kentucky where Rachel’s husband, Frank, is now the head baseball coach at Berea College. Rachel continues to work as a statewide coach for the Wisconsin Center for Resilient Schools. One positive thing to come out of the past two years: Having the space to realize that it was time for me to leave schools and become a statewide coach to help educators implement and sustain trauma-sensitive social-emotional learning and comprehensive school mental health systems.”

AMANDA SCHELLINGER of North Prairie, Wisconsin, writes, “I was recently promoted to Senior Director of Campus Services at Carroll University.”

NICK SPAETH of Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, writes, “2021 should have been the year I moved into my Past-President role (year three of a three-year term) with the Wisconsin Association for College Admission Counseling, but the President took a job outside of the state. So here I am, with an extraordinarily long term. While I’m looking forward to passing the torch, so to speak, I’m honored to be able to continue to serve my colleagues around Wisconsin and at the national level.”

MICHAEL TIMM of Cudahy, Wisconsin, completed a nonlinear storytelling course with Aubrey Hirsch in January 2022 and participated in the Bending Genres writers retreat in September 2021. With the small but mighty Milwaukee nonprofit Reflo, Michael creates and curates videos, interactive maps, games, and other content to engage the next generation with our connection to water and inspire hopeful actions in the face of climate change.

PAULA RICHARDSON TOMPKINS of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, writes, “A big positive that happened in our life is that we have one new addition to the family, an Aussiedoodle named Desmond aka Desi. He is our first dog and we couldn’t imagine life without him.”

Be sure to send updates to [email protected], and as always, be safe and be well.

NICK SPAETH ’04
(262) 227-6097
Your 2004 Class Agent

Submitted by: Class Agent: Nick Spaeth

Greetings, Class of 2005!

Guess what?? #OneDayRally, Ripon’s day of giving, is scheduled for April 27! Also, it’s been announced that “Ripon College is planning major infrastructure projects over the next two-to-five years. It plans to remodel Farr Hall of Science, modernize residence halls, and is in early stages of developing a campus stadium.” (Ripon Commonwealth Press) Our women’s basketball team has clinched its spot in the Division III tournament with our men’s and women’s indoor track teams both clinching Midwest Conference Championships! It’s a GREAT time to be a Red Hawk; the excitement on campus is infectious!

In early January, I (AMANDA ZAHN PRZYBYL ’05) tested positive for COVID-19, and, subsequently, so did my youngest. That put us home together for about two-and-a-half weeks in total, with two glorious days in the middle where I was out and about. Having that much time together, at home, with no outside distractions was eye-opening. It was almost as if life for us was paused inside our house while life went on around us. It reminded me how important it is to take time to pause your life, even if it’s just for an hour, a day, a weekend, etc. to really think about what’s important to you and your family. Is being in three traveling leagues and every sport possible allowing you to make the most memories with them or do you need to sign them up for camp or travel league so they can grow? Do you make it a point to talk regularly with your parents/loved ones? Are you spending too much time at work? Is the work you do rewarding for you? Do you need to go on vacation or spend more time at home? Are you active in your community or do you need to focus more attention on loved ones? Have you been putting off that home project- a simple declutter or major renovation? I hope you find a pocket of time to reflect on your life, what you want out of it and what you need to do to get there.

As for me, at the end of September, we sold our home and bought our forever home. We moved back into Ripon from Green Lake, and we now have 3.6 acres, a five-car garage (which my husband has already filled), a sledding hill for the kids, a small creek, and a park right next door. Our home was built in the late 1840s, so even before the College but has an updated feel to it! As much as I really love everything about our new home, I forgot just how much work moving is- ugh. Since the beginning of July when we got an accepted offer on the new house, all I’ve done is clean, pack, sign paperwork, clean, pack, pack some more, paint, paint some more, spend a ton of money at Menards and Ikea, unpack, paint, build storage, unpack more. It was completely exhausting but the holidays were picture perfect in our new house! There have been some fun adulting moments as well, like when I got to get new silverware that replaces the stuff we bought 14 years ago! I hope each of you has had some good adulting moments recently.

Here is what is going on with your Classmates:

HALLIE BROWER ’05 writes, “I’m living in Chicago, just started a great new job with Radiology Partners, recently got a new baby bird (Eli the Parrotlet) and I can’t wait for winter to end.”

CHARLES JOHNSON ’05 writes, “Currently, my family and I are still living in Minneapolis. I’m still in the automotive industry at this time. It’s currently myself, my fiance, Raven, our daughter, Charli, and our pet pig, Cami, and we picked up a new kitten, Carter. Our house is full at this time! We look forward to a wedding later this year.”

PHILICIA KING ’05 writes, “I had my first year as the Principal of Becker Middle School in Las Vegas, Nevada. There’s also a Ripon College connection! Former professor Suzanne Katz was a drama teacher at the same school during her time in Las Vegas in the 90s. What a small world!”

PAUL ’05 and SARAH MCGILL LARSON ’05 of Green Bay, Wisconsin, write, “Our puppy, Colby, left us in December at only eleven months old. We were very quick to get another. His name is Munster (cheese theme). He entertains PAUL while he continues working from home for Humana as an actuary. He thinks he gets to return to an office in March. The kids are great. Parker (nine in May) is reading the Harry Potter series. Tanner (seven in May) reads all the animal nonfiction books the library will let her have. We have plans for a trip to either British Columbia or Yosemite in June with PAUL‘s extended family.”

DAPHNE MYERS LEIGH ’05 of New Berlin, Wisconsin, writes, “I started doing a podcast with a local friend. We read and break down books, fiction and non-fiction, geared toward the anti-racism movement and have recently added a feature on commonly banned books. We look for pieces that we, and our listeners, can act on to begin their own journey in anti-racism and activism while broadening our reading spectrum. We’re not perfect, but we are in it to share what we learn and to grow together, by starting with small things. Find us on Google or Apple podcasts or on Spotify, at Starting Small: An Anti-Racist Book Chat.”

CARLY CORSUN MACHANOVITCH ’05 writes, “I’m still living in France. I haven’t been stateside since before the times of Coronavirus. I was a city youth leader and worked on a toy and game library (Ludothèque) project with my manager and department head a few years back. Now I am a toy librarian and I work literally across the street from my apartment. My kids are ages ten and four and… I’ll be married 15 years this summer! Time flies!”

ASHLEIGH SMITH ’05 of Hohenwald, Tennessee, writes, “While Don and I enjoy being empty nesters, our house is still filled with the pitter-patter of little feet, our three dogs, five cats, two ferrets, and two turtles…and during the week our nearly three-year-old grandson. He comes over while our son and daughter-in-law are at work. I was enjoying being a stay-at-home Nana through the end of last year. But, I got the opportunity to return to my former (and favorite) job as an elephant caregiver at The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee. Don is now loving being a stay-at-home Papa, playing and having adventures with our grandson.”

A few more thoughts from me: Reflection was my theme for this Class Letter; I hope as you look back you remember the good times you had here at Ripon. We’re still holding those warm memories as we wait for you to return to visit. But until then, we’re always in need of your donation. It’s what helps our current students make those same warm memories. The website is simple: ripon.edu/give and is open 24/7. Give now, give on #OneDayRally or give every month, as long as you give something!

All the best!

AMANDA ZAHN PRZYBYL ’05
(920) 299-1081

DAPHNE MEYERS LEIGH ’05
(414) 841-7210

Your 2005 Class Agents

Submitted by: Class Agent: Amanda Zahn Przybyl