Melanie Schwartz Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Melanie Schwartz, Radiology, who received a SLU Spark! Melanie was recognized by Joan Dalton, Radiology, for pursuing excellence.

"I got caught in extreme traffic conditions due to overnight flooding situations in my area and I was unable to get into the office until 8:45 am. I was then unable to cover the 8:00 a.m. new medical student orientation for the Radiology Program Coordinator who was on vacation. Per my phone call, Melanie had Dr. Cary Stolar, Medical Student Director for Radiology, speak first with the medical students, then she distributed information packets regarding their three week rotation in Radiology, the Felsen's Chest Books and then walked each of the medical students around to their assigned reading room areas. I really appreciated Melanie stepping up for this important representation of the new Medical Student rotation through Radiology and for assisting Dr. Stolar in helping things run smoothly."

Candice Murray Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Candice Murray, Benefits, who received a SLU Spark! Candice was recognized by Marissa Cope, Student Development, for showing compassion.

"I had the pleasure of working with Candice over the last week as she (and her colleague, Michele) assisted me with working through an issue with the Vitality platform. Due to a technology issue on their end, I was not receiving the wellness discount on my insurance premium. Candice went above and beyond in seeing to it that I was able to get my discount back AND a refund for the past six months. I truly appreciated her desire to help me while also acknowledging my frustration with the situation. She also kept me informed during the process. Thank you!"

Danaye Gebru Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Danaye Gebru, PMO - Information Systems, who received a SLU Spark! Danaye was recognized by Jackie Syberg, Radiology, for serving others.

"I had an issue on my computer which no one could seem to fix and I really needed to be able to access it for work. Danaye spent a good part of the afternoon with me remotely and on the phone. And while the issue seemed to persist he never gave up and eventually fixed it. He was very personable, professional and very easy to work with. He kept at it and I am sure it wasn't easy. I would just like to thank him for his help and his patience and his ability to never make me feel like I was a problem through it all. He truly lives up to the mission of SLU and is appreciated. Thanks Danaye!"

Ellen Weis Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Ellen Weis, Office of the Registrar, who received a SLU Spark! Ellen was recognized by Samantha McLeod, Campus Recreation, for driving change and innovation.

"Ellen recognized that our department, along with others, were contacting her multiple times throughout the year to ask about registered students. She realized that sharing her knowledge and training other offices to access this basic information would save time for all parties and help each department run more efficiently by proposing this new process. She always takes time out of her busy schedule to help out and it's greatly appreciated!"

Jane Baum Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Jane Baum, Medical Center Development, who received a SLU Spark! Jane was recognized by Stacey Hutchens, Medical Center Development, for driving change and innovation.

"Jane is new to SLU, but she has already brought so much to our team. She has a wonderful positive attitude, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to explore new ways to reach our goals. She is collaborative and genuine and totally awesome."

Megan Shaffer Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Megan Shaffer, Major Exploration Advising, who received a SLU Spark! Megan was recognized by Tiffany Newtson, Arts & Sciences Advising, for driving change and innovation.

"Thank you for helping to roll out the new scheduling software and putting up with all of our questions and requests!"

Tim Allen Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Tim Allen, Public Safety, who received a SLU Spark! Tim was recognized by Mickey Coriell, Compliance Department, for strengthening our community.

"I just returned from Officer Allen's A.L.I.C.E. training. He did an excellent job of presenting this difficult subject. His presentation was interesting, to the point & fact based. It is obvious that he has history with difficult situations but, he keep the class engaged. Good job!! Thank you for all you do!!!"

Congratulations to those Celebrating Milestone Service Anniversaries!

We would like to congratulate those who are celebrating 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40 years of service in August and September 2016.
Thank you for your service at SLU!

40 Years
  • James F. Gilsinan, III
  • Robert W. Pasken, Ph.D.
  • Geralyn K. Singer
35 Years
  • James J. Hebda Ph.D.
  • Andrew J. Lechner, Ph.D.
  • Gregory A. Lyeki
  • Michael L. Niehoff
  • Akihiko Noguchi, M.D.
  • Ann M. Rule Ph.D.
  • Edward Sabin Ph.D.
  • Andrew C. Zinck
30 Years
  • Toni E. Batson
  • James F. Bohman, Ph.D.
  • Robert H. Caplan 
  • Bradley N. Currey, III
  • Andrew C. Fiore, M.D.
  • John E. Kalliongis, Ph.D.
  • Nancy A. Lynch 
  • M. C. Schwarze
  • Terry J. Tomazic, Ph.D.
25 Years
  • Sheila Arnold
  • Scott J. Berman, Ph.D.
  • Vincent G. Casaregola, Ph.D.
  • Madeline L. Ceaser
  • Eddie M. Clark, Ph.D.
  • Robert Cropf, Ph.D.
  • Lisa A. Gaudette
  • Kanak S. Gautam, Ph.D.
  • Armineh Khalili, M.A.
  • Martin Nikolo, Ph.D.
  • Geralyn A. Ochs, M.S.N.
  • Nora L. Porter, M.D.
  • Jean Potvin Ph.D.
  • Kevin G. Proot
  • Susan M. Wiegert 
20 Years
  • Jittaun T. Allen
  • Charles H. Andrus, M.D. 
  • Brian L. Betker, Ph.D.
  • Julie M. Birkenmaier, Ph.D.
  • Jennifer A. Boning
  • Maria E. Cardona, Ph.D.
  • Sridhar S. Condoor, Ph.D.
  • Cynthia Dunn 
  • Rita M. Heuertz, Ph.D.
  • John C. James Ph.D.
  • Kathleen S. Kress, M.S.
  • Margo Lubus 
  • Suzanne M. McGahan 
  • Retha M. Meier, Ph.D.
  • George O. Ndege, Ph.D.
  • Michelle A. Pfau
  • Ronald W. Rebore, Ph.D.
  • Todd A. Smith
  • Angela R. Thomas
  • Michael J. Wall  
  • Ling-Jun Zhao, Ph.D.
15 Years
  • Mark J. Arnold, Ph.D.
  • Gary W. Barker, M.F.A.
  • Heather L. Bednarek, Ph.D.
  • Rebecca A. Dougherty, LCSW
  • Jonathan S. Fisher, Ph.D.
  • Patrick F. Foley
  • James E. Halliburton 
  • Scott R. Harris, Ph.D.
  • Devin D. Johnston, Ph.D.
  • Aileen M. Keenan 
  • Ronald T. Kellogg, Ph.D.
  • John C. Kennell, Ph.D.
  • Timothy J. Kutz, M.D.
  • Kathleen M. Llewellyn, Ph.D.
  • Michelle S. Lorenzini, Ph.D.
  • Peter Maniscalco 
  • Thomas R. Martin, M.F.A.
  • Richard L. Mayden, Ph.D.
  • Maureen M. McAnany 
  • Mary D. McGuire, Ph.D.
  • Timothy P. Noonan 
  • Clyde P. Ragland, Ph.D.
  • Kimberly A. Reitter 
  • Kristie Signorello 
  • Kent W. Staley, Ph.D.
  • Robert W. Wilmott, M.D.
  • Loletta A. Zasaretti 
  • Lupei Zhu, Ph.D.
  • Kimberly A. Zoberi, M.D.
  • Jonathan D. Zych 
10 Years
  • Hadi Alhorr, Ph.D.
  • Brandon W. Auld
  • Nancy M. Barker
  • Sharilyn D. Bazile 
  • Louis Bird, M.F.A.
  • Karen L. Bolinger 
  • John A. Boudreau, M.D.
  • Benjamin de Foy, Ph.D.
  • William F. Eaton 
  • Louis R. Feldenberg, M.D.
  • Michael D. Findlay
  • Christopher R. Grabau 
  • John T. Greco, Ph.D.
  • Abigayle G. Hunt
  • Mary Ann D. Inman
  • Lynn Kerley 
  • Jason Knouft, Ph.D.
  • Dennis R. Lea, Ph.D.
  • Vanessa R. Lee
  • Kimberly M. Levenhagen, D.P.T.
  • Maria L. Mancuso 
  • Margaret M. McAuliffe
  • Evelyn Meyer, Ph.D.
  • Allison J. Miller, Ph.D.
  • Jannie M. Miller
  • Nathaniel C. Millett, Ph.D.
  • Amy R. Moore, M.S.N.D.
  • Sherry L. Muir, M.O.T.
  • Diana F. Pascoe-Chavez, Ph.D.
  • Debra N. Pike, M.B.A.
  • Denise Randolph 
  • Joanne Salas 
  • Natalie L. Semchyshyn, M.D.
  • Kimberly M. Sendic 
  • Talitha S. Sherman
  • Laurie L. Shornick, Ph.D.
  • Nicholas W. Smith
  • Damian J. Smith, Ph.D.
  • Theodore Strickland
  • Yolanda R. Trevino 
  • Vincent T. Volpe, J.D.
  • Weimin Wang, Ph.D.
  • Shontae S. Williams
  • Alexandria M. Wilson 
  • Leslie T. Wells
  • Kathleen E. Yepez 
5 Years
  • Carrie A. Abboud 
  • Kimberly D. Adams
  • Rebecca M. Aldrich, Ph.D.
  • Anne Marie Apollo-Noel 
  • Heidi L. Ardizzone, Ph.D.
  • Lauren E. Arend, Ph.D.
  • Cathy L. Baumann 
  • Eunice E. Behrens
  • Jill S. Behymer
  • George K. Billings 
  • Thomas A. Birmingham
  • Matthew J. Bonk
  • Ashley A. Borawski 
  • David M. Borgmeyer, Ph.D.
  • Maureen D. Bresnahan
  • Kevin D. Broom, Ph.D.
  • Margaret W. Bultas, Ph.D., R.N.
  • Nandini Calamur, M.D.
  • Shirley M. Campbell
  • Amie C. Chang, M.M.S., PA-C
  • Catherine Cibulskis, M.D.
  • Dary J. Costa, M.D.
  • Patrick E. Cousins
  • Alexander Cuenca, Ph.D.
  • Elena Dalla Torre, Ph.D.
  • Lindzy F. Dodson, Ph.D.
  • Keith T. Elder, Ph.D.
  • Jennifer M. Elwyn 
  • Scott Ferreira, M.D.
  • Jill M. Fitzgerald, D.P.T.
  • Cheryl A. Follmer 
  • Olubukola A. Gbadegesin, Ph.D.
  • Jay W. Goff
  • Shannon M. Groth
  • Daniel M. Hanes, Ph.D.
  • Kelly D. Hawthorne, D.P.T.
  • Sue E. Held 
  • Torrie R. Hester, Ph.D.
  • Denise R. Hooks-Anderson, M.D.
  • Steven W. Howard, Ph.D.
  • Jin Huang, Ph.D.
  • Haibin Hurwitz, Ph.D.
  • David A. Kaufman, Ph.D.
  • Laura E. Kleinschmidt
  • Irma Kuljanishvili, Ph.D.
  • Danielle M. Lacey 
  • Shante T. Latchison 
  • Matthew D. Lunneen
  • Filippo Marsili, Ph.D.
  • Laura A. Mayer
  • Catherine R. McDowell 
  • Cristina C. McGroarty, M.S.N.
  • Meredith A. McLaughlin
  • Ann K. Meechai, Ph.D.
  • Gina M. Merys
  • Dixie Meyer, Ph.D.
  • Antonia A. Miceli, J.D.
  • Karen S. Moore, D.N.P.
  • Jill E. Newman
  • Grant H. Powell
  • Susan S. Ratz
  • Darren Reimann 
  • Laura M. Rettig
  • Nathaniel A. Rivers, Ph.D.
  • Elizabeth E. Schaeg 
  • Enbal Shacham, Ph.D.
  • Brett T. Sihnhold 
  • Eric B. Staros, M.D.
  • Anne M. Stiles, Ph.D.
  • Marita R. Strube 
  • Lisa S. Taylor, J.D.
  • Denis R. Thien, Sr.
  • Tim M. Toennies 
  • Deborah E. Tooley
  • Matthew L. Tuegel
  • Aimee M. Walker
  • Jing Wang, Ph.D.
  • Jason H. Windett, Ph.D.
  • David S. Wisbey, Ph.D.
  • Mee-Ngan F. Yap, Ph.D.
  • Patrick P. Yeung, Jr., M.D.
  • Alan P. Zelicoff, M.D.

Mary Pat Admire Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Mary Pat Admire, OB-GYN, who received a SLU Spark! Mary Pat was recognized by Veronica Quarles, OB-GYN, for pursuing excellence.

"Mary Pat has been with our department for years, and was recently promoted to a supervisory position. She is a true ray of sunshine everyday for our team. Always positive, supportive, and willing to do whatever it takes to help her staff. We are so blessed to have her. Thanks for being so amazing and doing so much for us all."

Nick Weber Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Nick Weber, Public Health & Social Justice, who received a SLU Spark! Nick was recognized by Margaret Hufnagel, Grounds, for pursuing excellence.

"Nick is a student worker on grounds. He has worked with us for several years now and always puts forth an extraordinary effort to do the job assigned him but will stop to help anyone who needs an extra hand for a little bit before going on with his tasks. He will shake off help when he knows the other person has a different job to get to. I am happy when he offers to help me out and on several occassions have sought him out to help me with completing a tough job. He always has a pleasant attitude so working with him is easy to do. He has had little acknowledgement for all the things that get thrown his way. I just want to say thank you to Nick!"

Kelly Allmeyer Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Kelly Allmeyer, Pathology, who received a SLU Spark! Kelly was recognized by Kathleen Hargrave, Pathology, for showing compassion.

"Daily, Kelly demonstrates her competency and knowledge of medicolegal death investigation. She is respectful, compassionate and empathetic to grieving family members. She demonstrates her competency while conducting death scene investigations. She makes sound decisions using her interviewing skills to obtain the critical information needed for a thorough investigation. Throughout the work day, Kelly interacts with various agencies and family members; she demonstrates great self-control during highly emotional death scene investigations. Kelly has a strong work ethic and works with a sense of urgency to meet the needs of the communities we serve. Kelly is a true asset to the Forensic Pathology Division."

Ann Tettamble Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Ann Tettamble, Campus Ministry, who received a SLU Spark! Ann was recognized by James Baker, Campus Ministry, for serving others.

"Ann is always available and always helpful.When I was working in an office away from the main office, she went out of her way to keep me informed of developments in the department. She often sent materials that had been shared in that main office. She helped me to feel included."

Jennifer Baine Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Jennifer Baine, Pediatrics, who received a SLU Spark! Jennifer was recognized by Kerry Borawski, Compliance Department, for serving others.

"Jennifer helped me with her cheerful and persistent efforts in collecting annual disclosure statements from the 153 members of her department (Pediatrics). She helped in identifying effective strategies for collecting these disclosures and coordinated the massive effort through the administrative support team of the department. I appreciate her willingness to help me in this process and would like to recognize her efforts as "above & beyond" due to her enduring spirit of cooperation and pleasant demeanor. Thank You, Jennifer, for a job WELL done!"

Candace King Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Candace King, PMO - Registration, who received a SLU Spark! Candance was recognized by Sandra Hampton, PMO - Accounts Receivable, for showing compassion.

"Candace is a compassionate and caring person. She always have a big smile on her face and a welcoming attitude in any situation. Her positive attitude brings a lot to the work place."

Jennifer Semsar Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Jennifer Semsar, Women's Studies, who received a SLU Spark! Jennifer was recognized by Robert Strikwerd, Women's Studies, for pursuing excellence.

"Jenni is always ready to go beyond the standard level to do the extra that makes our department so excellent."

Rachel Jones Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Rachel Jones, School of Nursing, who received a SLU Spark! Rachel was recognized by Peggy Door, School of Nursing, for serving others.

"This is long overdue, but I need to acknowledge the many hours of physical labor that Rachel did during spring break. Rachel not only tackled an extremely cluttered storage area, but assisted me with preparing a kitchen for renovation. Rachel is always looking for ways she can help others, and the School of Nursing department."

Debi Pratt Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Debi Pratt, PMO - Administration, who received a SLU Spark! Debi was recognized by Alyce Lanxon, PMO - Administration, for serving others.

"Debi is a motivated person that strives to make a difference in the SLUCare community and in the St Louis area. She is a socially conscience person that seeks justice and equality in her community and lives this social mission in her volunteer endeavors at work and in the community. She is a ray of sunshine and hope in a world over shadowed by negativity."

Ann Meechai Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Ann Meechai, English as a Second Language, who received a SLU Spark! Ann was recognized by Lisa Fischer, English as a Second Language, for pursuing excellence.

"Ann has risen to many new challenges during the ESL Program's transition this summer. She has welcomed new responsibilities and has focused on the positive contributions she can make. The amount of energy she puts into all she does is vital to the continued success and rigor of the program. Her collegiality and professionalism model the Ignatian values of the University for faculty and students alike."

Shannon Groth Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Shannon Groth, Center for Advanced Dental Education, who received a SLU Spark! Shannon was recognized by Lynda Hetlage, Center for Advanced Dental Education, for pursuing excellence.

"Our department had been shorthanded for 3 months. Shannon stepped in and worked extra hours, took on additional tasks and rescheduled time off to help the department continue to provide the best service and to make sure our patients needs were met."

Congratulations Amanda!


Congratulations to Amanda Chamberland, Program Director in the School of Education, who was engaged to Jonathan Butler on October 23 while on vacation in Anna Maria Island, Florida. Jon and Amanda met while volunteering at a neighborhood event in September 2012. The couple are getting married on May 13, 2017 at College Church.

Congratulations, Tori!


Congratulations to Tori Bornholdt, Administrative Assistant in Pediatrics, and husband J.P. on their marriage. Tori and J.P. were married on May 29 at the Missouri Botanical Gardens. The reception was held at Lucas Park Grille, which was also where the couple had their first date in November 2013.

Congratulations, Tony!


Congratulations to Tony King, Residence Hall Coordinator in Housing and Residence Life, and husband, Brendan Boykin, on their marriage on May 20 in St. Louis City.

Brendan and Tony originally met in Arkansas when Tony was attending graduate school. The two then got engaged in May of 2014 and the rest is history.

Congratulations, Jennica!


Congratulations to Jennica Botonis, Major Exploration Academic Advisor in Student Development, and her wife, Mackenzie Schofield on their marriage.

Jennica Botonis and Mackenzie Schofield had their wedding on June 18th, at the U.S. Air Force Academy, Mackenzie's alma mater. They were married in the USAFA Cadet Chapel. Mackenzie proposed to Jennica in April 2015 after learning that she would be flying the C-21 out of Scott Air Force Base.

Mona Hicks Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Mona Hicks, Student Development, who received a SLU Spark! Mona was recognized by Matt Sullivan, Academic Support, for serving others.

"Dr. Mona Hicks is both dedicated and driven in her quest to serve the students of Saint Louis University. I am prompted to write this letter, however, because of the impact she has left on my life. As a staff member within the division, I have felt supported, encouraged, and loved by this amazing woman. In short, Dr. Hicks inspires me on a daily basis to be more than I was yesterday - not simply for personal improvement, but to best serve those with whom I work closest."

Jen Maness Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Jen Maness, Center for Advanced Dental Education, who received a SLU Spark! Jen was recognized by Lynda Hetlage, Center for Advanced Dental Education, for pursuing excellence.

"Our department had been shorthanded for 3 months. Jen stepped in and worked extra hours, took on additional tasks and rescheduled time off to help the department continue to provide the best service and to make sure our patients needs were met."

Susie Marty Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Susie Marty, PMO - Revenue Applications, who received a SLU Spark! Susie was recognized by Alyce Lanxon, PMO - Administration, for driving change and innovation.

"When I think of a "Spark", Susie is the person that comes to mind. Susie is always looking for ways to optimize our work through the use of technology. A major project she has worked on has been the installation of electronic charge capture for SLUCare physicians within Epic. This has reduce lag days and increased the total revenue captured for SLUCare. Her customer support is top notch and she uses her creativity to customize when the she runs into software limitations."
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Kathryn Lindsay Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Kathryn Lindsay, Surgery, who received a SLU Spark! Kathryn was recognized by Melissa Fitzgerald, Office of Research Integrity, for pursuing excellence.

"Hi Kathryn, I am sending a SLU Spark your way to thank you for all you do to facilitate great communication between IRB staff, researchers, sponsors, etc - which is so valuable in conducting quality human subjects research. Your contributions are always above and beyond, and so appreciated by all of us here. Thank you, Melissa"

Andy Marks Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Andy Marks, Mail Center, who received a SLU Spark! Andy was recognized by Alexis Bruce-Staudt, College for Public Health & Social Justice, for serving others.

"Andy relentlessly assisted me in tracking down a package from USPS this morning. Not only did he remember me when he delivered packages down at the Salus Center (almost 10 yrs ago), but he went above and beyond to offer me guidance and recommendations, as well as spent time checking his area and with his colleagues to find this package for our Research Office. I truly appreciate his efforts, courtesy, and above-stellar customer service. I am glad to have colleagues like this at SLU!"

Mary Kolb Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Mary Kolb, School of Nursing, who received a SLU Spark! Mary was recognized by Sally Bowles, School of Nursing, for pursuing excellence.

"Mary Kolb goes above and beyond daily in her work here in the School of Nursing. She supports the Master in Nursing - Nurse Practitioner program which currently has 337 students. She also works with the School of Nursing graduate faculty. Mary is always willing to lend a hand to all. I could not do my job efficiently without her. Her constant support and hard work should not go without being acknowledged. Mary is a source of knowledge, compassion and awareness of all of our graduate nursing programs. She is an asset not only to the School of Nursing but to the SLU community."
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LaVerne Robinson Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to LaVerne Robinson, Stewardship, who received a SLU Spark! LaVerne was recognized by Kris Siebert, Stewardship, for pursuing excellence.

"LaVerne takes great pride in her work and wants to see positive change and growth for herself, her department, but mostly for the university. She believes in the mission and lives it in both her personal and professional life. I love being on a team with her!"

Joan Beaty Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Joan Beaty, General Counsel, who received a SLU Spark! Joan was recognized by Janet Flach, for showing compassion.

"As a new employee in the Compliance office at SLU, I have found Joan Beaty, Legal Assistant in the Office of General Counsel to be a wonderful asset. When in doubt I ask Joan. She has several years of experience with SLU so she seems to know "everything" and is always caring and happy to help when I call or email her with a question. Whether it's a simple question about conference rooms that are available at DuBourg, to more complex questions about policies within our department, Joan takes the time to answer my questions and never makes me feel foolish for asking. And I quote, "we've all been new employees at one time". She's a wonderful asset to the Department and the University."

Shantell Barnes Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Shantell Barnes, Registrar, who received a SLU Spark! Shantell was recognized by Sally Schade, School of Nursing, for pursuing excellence.

"I am the secretary for the ABSN program. One of my students did not have enough hours articulated into her record. Resulting in a required financial aid hold by financial services. It happens. I articulated hours for her based on 2 transcripts - one US transcript, one international (Wes) transcript. Somehow the articulation didn't take. Shantell called me to coordinate our efforts. She cleared the record out completely and started over to get all the hours articulated. There should be enough hours for the finance hold to be removed, but she is also making the effort to meet with financial aid to confirm that. And she is also going to chase down what happened to the articulation I sent. HUGE help for me and most importantly the student."

Chandra Johnson Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Chandra Johnson, Career Services, who received a SLU Spark! Chandra was recognized by Kim Reitter, Career Services, for driving change and innovation.

"Thanks for all of your work compiling our assessment results and finding new and innovative ways for us to tell our story. You were able to find a way to record, code, and write the findings in a way that told an amazing record of the impact that we make in our students' lives. Your dedication as a career counselor and a member of our staff is exemplary. You are truly an amazing person, and I thank you for your hard work and dedication to Career Services!"

Cesar Rioja Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Cesar Rioja, Madrid - Student Life, who received a SLU Spark! Cesar was recognized by Marta Maruri, Madrid - Student Life, for showing compassion.

"Cesar is SLU Madrids's Sports Director. Having been a professional basketball player his physical stature is impressive, but the size of his compassion also impresses. Cesar is a good-hearted, very sensitive man that shows compassion to all the SLU-Madrid Community when any of us -students and colleagues- suffers a personal loos or they go through surgery. He is not also compassionate with all of us but also with our families. If he learns one of our parents or children are ill he is the first one to ask. Cesar always goes one step ahead to help out and comfort others. Thank you, Cesar for your BIG hugs!"

Paloma Gomez de Salazar Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Paloma Gomez de Salazar, Madrid - Campus Ministry and Student Life, who received a SLU Spark! Paloma was recognized by Marta Maruri, Madrid - Student Life, for serving others.

"Serving others and showing others how to best serve others is how Paloma lives the SLU Mission. She is always keen on helping whoever has a need students and colleagues around her. Nothing surprises Paloma. She will do her best to find a solution to any problem and get involved in anything that needs immediate attention whatever it is. Empathy, sensitiveness, emotional intelligence and eagerness to seek others and help them is part of Paloma's DNA. Working in the Madrid Student Life office along with Fr.Jim SJ in Campus Minitry and with Service Learning and volunteer opportunities she is an example of service to everybody around her."

Andy Molnar Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Andy Molnar, School for Professional Studies, who received a SLU Spark! Andy was recognized by Beth Freeburg, School for Professional Studies, for driving change and innovation.

"Andy is a subject matter expert in project and contract management and in aviation management. He is the director of those three programs. In his 15 months with SLU and SPS, he has made strong industry and professional organization connections, revised the curriculum, developed new marketing materials, and grown these certificate programs. He continues to generate new ideas and works his ideas to fruition. He is a tremendous source of innovation in our school and drives the changed needed to operationalize his ideas."

Kitty Bera Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Kitty Berra, Information Technology Services, who received a SLU Spark! Kitty was recognized by Carole Sharp, Information Technology Services, for showing compassion.

"Kitty organized an ITS department collection for my and my husband's, Jeff Kapp, 5 year old granddaughter, Lydia Boyer. Lydia was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, brain and spine cancer and has been in Cardinal Glennon since June 1. Kitty was able to collect almost one thousand dollars which were converted to Schnucks and Wal-Mart cards that my daughter and her family desperately need. The family is overwhelmed with the generosity of the entire department and especially by Kitty who coordinated the effort."

Mercia Locke Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Mercia Locke, Pathology, who received a SLU Spark! Mercia was recognized by Caswalyn Landry, Pathology, for driving change and innovation.

"Mercia, you are always on the cutting edge and trying to keep the Cytology lab innovative and cost effective! Even though technology is consistently changing (requiring fewer PAPs), you still work to help keep the lab productive!"

Chandra Johnson Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Chanda Johnson, Career Services, who received a SLU Spark! Chandra was recognized by Floyd Welsh, Career Services, for driving change and innovation.

"Chandra has been the driving force behind three assessment projects for Career Services. She has used great care to maintain the integrity of the results. She takes great satisfaction in learning from collecting the data because she knows how critical it is to best serve the campus community. Beyond compiling the results in very helpful reports, she is leading the charge to use the results to inform our practice and market our services to students and faculty."

Kathy Luther Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Kathy Luther, Corporate and Foundation Relations, who received a SLU Spark! Kathy was recognized by Stacey Hutchens, Medical Center Development, for pursuing excellence.

"Kathy is always thinking! Much of this is thinking 'outside the box' - finding ways to make our team's efforts more effective. She brings positive energy to the workplace and is a true problem solver and collaborator. Kathy is awesome."

Brian Marble Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Brian Marble, Public Safety, who received a SLU Spark! Brian was recognized by Melissa Fitzgerald, Office of Research Integrity, for serving others.

"Hi Brian, I am sending you a SLU spark because we here at the SLU IRB appreciate everything you do as a Public Safety Officer to serve and protect the SLU community. When you worked at the LRC security desk, it was so great getting to know you and laughing with you every single day. We all miss you so much! This Spring, when we heard you received an American Heart Association EEC Heartsaver Hero Award for your life-saving efforts for a child in cardiac arrest, we were so proud of you. But, we were not surprised because we have always known you were a hero! Thanks for everything you do!"

Laura Kleinschmidt Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Laura Kleinschmidt, Alumni Engagement, who received a SLU Spark! Laura was recognized by Kalen Reichert, Alumni Engagement, for strengthening our community.

"Laura frequently shares her talent and skill for baking by bringing in treats for our department. She has a way of making people feel special on their birthday as well as on ordinary days. Last night, many of our homes' were without power so Laura brought in some homemade chocolate chip muffins to share."

Tony Breitbach Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Tony Breitbach, Physical Therapy, who received a SLU Spark! Tony was recognized by Amelia Meigs, Doisy College Health Sciences, for serving others.

"You are always supportive of your students. You look out for us continuously and serve wholeheartedly the mission of SLU. Your passion is contagious and you are a huge part of why I ended up at SLU! Thank you for all that you do!"

Lisa Cannada Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Lisa Cannada, Orthopaedic Surgery, who received a SLU Spark! Lisa was recognized by Melissa Fink, Office of Research Integrity, for serving others.

"Dr. Lisa Cannada was quick to assist a fellow investigator at SLU with regulatory paperwork in order to move a research project forward. She has unique expertise in this area, and her willingness to find time in her schedule to serve the needs of another researcher, previously unknown to her, was much appreciated by the investigator and the IRB Office at SLU."

Congratulations, Troy!


Congratulations to Troy Turnipseed, Director of Summer Studies, and husband Chris Hargrove, on the adoption of their daughter, Olivia Grace. Olivia was born on July 4, 2016.

SLU 6th Annual Holiday Bazaar

SLU's sixth annual Holiday Bazaar will be held on Tuesday, November 29 from 11am to 6pm in the Busch Student Center Wool Ballrooms. Participants will sell their arts and crafts at the event. Vendor registration information will be available later in August. University faculty, student artists, staff, alumni, and immediate family members of the SLU community are eligible to take part in the event. Members of the SLU community will be allowed to sponsor their artist and vendor friends to participate in the event.

For assistance,  contact M.O.V.E. Committee members Daria Dietz (ddietz4@slu.edu) or Kathy Basso (basso@slu.edu).

Click here to view the flyer.

Professional Programs Fair

Learn about professional programs, degrees, certificates, and more while sampling food and drink from some of the finest local eateries, at the Professional Programs Fair, hosted by the Professional Outreach Committee. The event will be held on August 11 from 4:30-7:30pm in the atrium of the John Cook School of Business. The event is free for vendors and attendees.

Click here for more information. 

To RSVP or reserve a vendor table, contact Cindy Minor at minorce@slu.edu or 314-977-3617. 

Bustin' Clays for Cancer Research

Saint Louis University Cancer Center presents the first annual "Bustin' Clays for Cancer Rearch,"  a clay target shooting competition to raise funds for cancer research. The event will be held on August 27 from 8am to 12pm at Strathalbyn Farms in St. Charles, MO.

Individuals and teams of 4 are welcome, but must be 18 years or older to participate. For more information and to register, click here.

SLUCare Official Medical Provider of 2016 Gymnastics Championships

SLUCare Physician Group was proud to be the official medical provider for the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team Trials - Men's Gymnastics and the 2016 P&G Gymnastics Championships – Women’s Gymnastics, which were held at Chaifetz Arena from June 23-26.

Orthopaedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist Dr. Scott Kaar worked the floor each day, providing on-the-mat medical expertise and coordinating care for the athletes as needed. SLUCare participated in Countdown to Rio Fan Fest, a pre-show activities designed to welcome gymnastics fans to the SLU campus and build excitement for the competition. SLUCare sponsored a photo booth, where visitors could get crazy for the cameras with costumes and props or strike a pose like an Olympic champion.In addition, SLUCare provided USA-themed paper fans, Additional events included a SLUCare meet-and-greet and autograph signing with former Olympic gold medalists, Shawn Johnson East and Kyla Ross. 

Photos and article with more information available here.

ITS SaLUting You Recipients

Congratulations to the following members of ITS for being recognized with the "SaLUting You" award.
  • May 2016: Lynn Kerley, Project Portfolio Analyst, Sr, ITS-Technology Transformation
  • June 2016: Melissa Ezell, Application Systems Analyst, ITS-Enterprise Products Group
The program is meant to promote and formally reward employees’ contributions to the overall objectives of ITS. As part of the program, one employee is chosen from nominations each month to receive the “SaLUting You” award. The award is designed to recognize employees for excellence in customer service, financial efficiency, and creative ingenuity.

PMO Celebrates Cancer Champions & Survivors

The PMO Special Events Committee recently held their “We are Champions- We are Survivors!” event to support the great work done at the Saint Louis University Cancer Center. Committee members sold dress-down passes, food, cancer memorial ribbons, and raffled off baskets for a profit of $922.85 for the Cancer Center. In addition, PMO registration staff also competed for the Best Team Spirit and Best Decorating awards. The PMO Registration manager, Tim Noonan, summed up the spirit of the event. “We were blown away by the creativity and compassion of the staff. Teams displayed a tremendous amount of team spirit but the clear winner here is SLUCare and the patients we are lucky enough to support!” Dr. Carl Freter, Saint Louis University Cancer Center interim director, received the check on behalf of the Cancer Center and will use the funds for ongoing patient care and cancer research.

Click here for pictures of the event.

Congratulations, Sherida!


Congratulations to Dr. Sherida Tollefsen, Director of the Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, on her retirement. Sherida retired on July 1 after 18 years at SLU. She plans to keep busy by traveling and working in her garden.

Congratulations, Ellen!



Congratulations to Dr. Ellen Wood, Director of Pediatric Nephrology, on her retirement. Ellen retired on July 1 after 35 years at SLU. She plans to travel, visit her children and grandchildren, and continue working part time.

Congratulations, Lynda and Kenny!


Congratulations to Lynda Signorino, Senior Administrative Assistant in Development, on the birth of her sixth grandchild, Lucas Everett Huddleston-Smith. Also, congratulations to Kenny Smith, Public Safety Officer at the Doisy Research Center, and wife Kim Huddleston, who are Luke's parents.

Luke was born on May 29 and weighed 8 pounds and 6 ounces. He joins siblings Jason and Ava at home.

Congratulations, Tamara!



Congratulations to Tamara Blevins, Research Lab Supervisor in Internal Medicine, husband Jeffrey on the birth of their twin boys, Lukas Josef Blevins and Sebastian Wesley Blevins.

The boys were born on June 25. Lukas weighed 6 pounds and 11 ounces, and Sebastian weighed 6 pounds and 5 ounces. Lukas and Sebastian join big brother Gabriel at home.

Congratulations, Laura!

 


Congratulations to Laura Kleinschmidt, Alumni Engagement Officer for Alumni and Donor Engagement, who was engaged to Patrick Banks on June 2. The couple met through the part-time MBA program at SLU, and Patrick also graduated from SLU undergrad in 2010. They are planning to be married on May 20, 2017 at St. Clement of Rome Catholic Church in Des Peres, MO.

Proposal Story from Laura:
Patrick proposed on a glacier up in Girdwood, Alaska on Thursday, June 2nd during our highly anticipated Alaskan adventure! Our big activity was a helicopter flightseeing tour on our last day. We were 2,200 feet up on Colony Glacier with the helicopter pilot exploring the glacier. The pilot was snapping photos of us and that's when he popped the question on one knee in the snow. It was unbelievably romantic and as soon as I stopped crying I said yes! He told me to be careful with the ring in the snow because he hadn't insured it yet! We then took more photos and have no need for an engagement session because the pictures turned out so well thanks to a good friend who let us borrow a nice camera for the trip.

Cheryl Gower Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Cheryl Gower, Custodial Services, who received a SLU Spark! Cheryl was recognized by Paul Lega, Biology, for pursuing excellence.

"I would like to recognize Cheryl Gower in the department of Custodial Services in Macelwane Building. She is ALWAYS working. She works hard and NEVER says "no." She is kind and courteous. She has a strong presence in our building and makes sure to bring an excellent blend of competence and caring with her to work EVERY DAY. She is truly a value to the University, her Department and absolutely, Macelwane Building. Thank you Cheryl!"

Kelly Hilton Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Kelly Hilton, Otolaryngology, who received a SLU Spark! Kelly was recognized by Carole McKinstry, Otolaryngology, for pursing excellence.

"Kelly faces incredible challenges as she schedules complex surgeries for patients with head and neck cancers. She diligently works to keep the patient and family informed about the plan but also spends great deal of time coordinating insurance coverage, transportation, and interactions with other providers so the best surgical outcome is possible. She truly embodies the Jesuit life."

Margaret Bultas Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Margaret Bultas, School of Nursing, who received a SLU Spark! Margaret was recognized by Jeanne Eichler, Occupational Therapy, for serving others.

"I run a week-long overnight camp for teens and young adults who have high functioning autism. Margaret has been serving as a volunteer nurse for four years in addition to her full time administrative and teaching responsibilities in the School of Nursing. Because of Margaret, 20 teens and young adults were able to experience the camp. Noted increases in medications and health problems among the teens and young adults in the program over the years have made her position more vital than ever- and more complicated. Margaret has not only served during the week (staying overnight/ being on call during the night, distributing medication several times each day, informing staff of health precautions and warning signs, epic-pen and inhaler usage), but she created a system of forms, releases, and processes that ensure accuracy and preparedness every year. This year, Margaret, a talented researcher, received a Beaumont grant to study the impacts of the camp and a corresponding weekly program, which will provide outcomes for the first time since the program started. Margaret also fulfilled her regular work responsibilities during camp over the past four years, often multitasking in both locations-- working literally 24 hours a day for a week. Margaret is a support and an inspiration, is passionate about what she does, and is dedicated to serving others. To me, Margaret is a perfect example of "Men and Women FOR AND WITH Others". Thank you, Margaret, for making a difference not only for our campers, but for our team and our program. You are appreciated."

Gloria Skelton Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Gloria Skelton, Internal Medicine - Hematology/Oncology, who received a SLU Spark! Gloria was recognized by Suzanne Mahon, Internal Medicine - Hematology/Oncology, for showing compassion.

"Gloria does an amazing job of scheduling complex anxious patients. She takes time to listen to their story. She treats each person with respect and kindness. When they call they are very worried about their risk for cancer and what it means to their family and she provides reassurance that their concerns will be addressed. She is very patient and puts the patients first."

Donna Myers Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Donna Myers, Dean of Students, who received a SLU Spark! Donna was recognized by Carol Cote, for strengthening our community.

"Everyday Donna strengthens our community in such a selfless manner that she deserves a Spark. Students are the most important part of her life. Her door is always open to discuss issues, help them with various situations and just catch up. Former students return every year to thank her for making their lives better and for putting them on the right path. Donna is selfless and compassionate and a great asset to the SLU community."

Francesca Zanti Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Francesca Zanti, Office of Admission, who received a SLU Spark! Francesca was recognized by Edith Brown, John Cook School of Business, for pursuing excellence.

"Francesca works tirelessly to arrange prospective student visits. Even during the time her office relocated to a new building she managed to arrange tours and meetings without missing a beat. She works diligently to arrange visits that fit the visitors ever changing time lines. Francesca is professional and kind at all times."

Janet Neuhaus Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Janet Neuhaus, Internal Medicine - Gastroenterology, who received a SLU Spark! Janet was recognized by Mary Ann Barrale, Internal Medicine - Gastroenterology, for serving others.

"Janet is always willing to help others in the SLU community with the part of her job that relates to the residency program. She recently helped an individual outside of the department to teach her how to use New Innovations. This is not the first time she has explained the process to others who struggle with their job. She is an asset to Saint Louis University, the Department of Internal Medicine, and the Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology."

Rachel Rimmerman Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Rachel Rimmerman, Parks College, who received a SLU Spark! Rachel was recognized by Sue Ratz, Parks College, for driving change and innovation.

"Rachel successfully organized and ran three week-long summer camps for high school students at Parks College. Two of the camps were brand new. Rachel went above and beyond to make sure the camps were a success - and they were. The participants walked away not only knowing more about a particular discipline, but also wanting to apply to SLU. Rachel is really helping enact change in Parks College, and helping us move forward as a college."

Lisa Schaffer Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Lisa Schaffer, Medical Center Development, who received a SLU Spark! Lisa was recognized by Stacey Hutchens, Medical Center Development, for pursuing excellence.

"Lisa is an inspirational team member that demonstrates enthusiasm for her work and a willingness to go above and beyond - attending events, working collaboratively, and bringing contagious positive energy to the workplace. She has a strong work ethic. Lisa is awesome!"

Bill George Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Bill George, University Development, who received a SLU Spark! Bill was recognized by Meme Wolff, Fine & Performing Arts, for strengthening our community.

"Bill has been extremely giving by offering information and sharing his knowledge. He has supported the goal of my department to become more visible on campus and assisted when he could to help us accomplish it. His opinion and suggestions have allowed for an easier flow of communication which have resulted in some terrific collaborations!"

Katie Smialek Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Katie Smialek, Doisy College of Health Sciences, who received a SLU Spark! Katie was recognized by Mardell Wilson,  Doisy College of Health Sciences, for pursuing excellence.

"Thank you for pursuing your work with excellence each and every day. In addition, it is recognized and appreciated that you graciously take on additional tasks without hesitation. You are a valued and valuable member of the DCHS team!"

Jessica Erwin Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Jessica Erwin, Madrid - Finance and Operations, who received a SLU Spark! Jessica was recognized by Victoria Villarreal, Madrid - Finance and Operations, for driving change and innovation.

"Although demonstrating curiosity is a good thing, not everyone is capable of going one step further. That is, demonstrating curiosity, learning more about something (what does it do?, what it is for?, who does it impact?, are there costs involved?, etc.) and later proposing new ideas to make the process more efficient, makes the action even more valuable. Those capable of doing this have the gift to be able to manage projects and get things done. In the time she has been working for the Madrid Campus, Jessica has proven to be one of these people. Constantly observing what is happening around us, she can point out flaws in a process faster than most and find ways to make it work. Her dedication as a true SLU Madrid Billiken also further contributes to complete a job in an efficient and timely manner. As a member of the SLU Madrid staff and as Assistant Director for Operations, Jessica is a perfect fit. She is enthusiastic, industrious, hard-working and always in the mood for positive change, a large 'spark' in a small campus."

Brian McClure Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Brian McClure, Internal Medicine - Administration, who received a SLU Spark! Brian was recognized by Rhonda Arl, Internal Medicine - Pulmonary, for pursuing excellence.

"Thank you for being a great resource for billing and RVU information. Your monthly service analysis reports help me immensely. I appreciate all you do."

Candice Murray Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Candice Murray, Benefits, who received a SLU Spark! Candice was recognized by Christin Holden, Benefits, for serving others.

"Candice is always more than willing to go the extra step to help someone out, especially someone who is having a difficult life event or issue. She always inspires me to be more positive, even when there are days that are extremely challenging. She is courteous, kind, intelligent, thoughtful and compassionate. I really enjoy working with her every day."

Therese Heidemann Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Therese Heidemann, Curricular Affairs, who received a SLU Spark! Therese was recognized by Denise Parker, Curricular Affairs, for pursuing excellence.

"Every eight weeks we give subject exams to our third year medical students. Per National Board regulations, students are not permitted to have any personal items at their desktop. This has been an issue as students place their backpacks, etc, in either the front or rear of the room. As individual students complete their exam the noise in the room gets quite loud and disturbs those still examining. Therese took the time to look outside of the box and found a locked room close to the examination where students can store their belongings until they end their exam therefore being able to exit without disturbing their fellow classmates. This will be very beneficial to the students."

Mark Nothum Received a SLU Spark!

Congratulations to Mark Nothum, Office of Admission, who received a SLU Spark! Mark was recognized by Francesca Zanti, Office of Admission for serving others.

"Mark is always the first one to step up to the plate when I am seeking assistance with our visitors. I can always count on Mark to help out and make sure our guests have the best possible experience while visiting campus. At times, he will just ask if there is anything that he can do for me. When I thanked him the other day for always being a great help he simply said, 'I am just serving others.'"

Congratulations, Patrick!



Congratulations to Patrick Cousins, Assistant Director of Campus Ministry, and wife Cristina, on the birth of their son Colin Thomas Cousins. Colin was born on June 28 and weighed 6 pounds and 2 ounces.