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Campus ConnectionAn update from the president to alumni and parents
Saint Mary’s and Winona State present joint choir concert April 28
WINONA, Minn. — The choirs of Saint Mary’s University and Winona State University will present a joint concert on Saturday, April 28, at 7:30 p.m. in the Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels, 1155 W. Wabasha St.
The two universities have previously performed together. As in prior collaborations, each will present a substantial portion of the program separately and then combine on several pieces. Each university has been preparing for several months and the choirs will combine for rehearsals before the concert.
“Winona is really blessed to have so much musical talent based here, both at the universities and in the community,” said Dr. Patrick O’Shea, Saint Mary’s director of choirs. “It’s great for students to see what their peers are doing across town, and there are few things that promote a sense of community as well as sharing great music.”
Under the direction of Dr. Harry Mechell, the Winona State Concert Choir will perform works by Gerald Finzi, Edvard Grieg, Ola Gjielo, Eric Whitacre, Dan Davison, and more. The Saint Mary’s Chamber Singers and Concert Choir, under the direction of Dr. Patrick O’Shea, will present works by C.V. Stanford, Knut Nystedt, Eleanor Daley, and Moses Hogan, with the U.S. premiere of Newfoundland Songs, Set II by Dr. O’Shea.
The choirs will combine for performances of “Heilig” by Felix Mendelssohn, “Domine ad adjuvandum me” by G.B. Martini, “O Sing Unto The Lord” by Henry Purcell, and “Omnia sol” by Z. Randall Stroope. Featured guest artists will be The Meadowlark String Quartet, Dr. Alan Dunbar (baritone), and Dr. Janet Heukeshoven (flute).
Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors. Call the Saint Mary’s Page Theatre box office for tickets at 507-457-1715 or purchase online at pagetheatre.smumn.edu.
Saint Mary’s Chamber Ensembles present annual spring concert
Saint Mary’s Chamber Ensembles will present their annual spring concert Saturday, April 28, at 3 p.m. in the Figliulo Recital Hall.
Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors. Call the Saint Mary’s Page Theatre Box Office for tickets at 507-457-1715 or purchase online at pagetheatre.smumn.edu.
Jazz at Saint Mary’s presents ‘Tenor Madness’
Legendary tenor saxophonists Sonny Rollins and John Coltrane (Trane) only recorded together once, in 1956. But on Sunday, April 29, at 3 p.m. in the Page Theatre, Jazz at Saint Mary’s will recreate this historic pairing with two of the region’s top sax players.
Saint Mary’s professor emeritus John Paulson and Ray Dretske will join the Saint Mary’s Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo 1 for an afternoon of selections separately written and recorded by Rollins and Coltrane — including “Moment’s Notice,” “Giant Steps,” “Impressions,” “Doxy,” “Naima,” “Cousin Mary,” “Blue Train,” and “St. Thomas” — and their one joint recording, “Tenor Madness.”
For more information, contact Director of Jazz Studies Eric Heukeshoven at 507-457-7292 or eheukesh@smumn.edu. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors. Call the Saint Mary’s box office for tickets at 507-457-1715 or purchase online at pagetheatre.smumn.edu.
Photo caption: From left, Ray Dretske and John Paulson.
Saint Mary’s in the news
Finance and Commerce featured an article about the groundbreaking of Brother William Hall. Read the story online.
Student attends Pre-Synod gathering with Pope Francis
Sister Marie Faustina, RSM, who is currently majoring in elementary education K-6 at Saint Mary’s University, was one of only eight individuals selected to attend a Pre-Synod gathering March 19-24 in Rome with Pope Francis. Sister Marie was one of 300 young people from throughout the world who shared their voices with Pope Francis. She recounts this amazing experience below.
With 300 other young people — including people of other faiths — I had the honor of being a representative at the Pre-Synodal Meeting in Rome from March 19-24. The purpose of the meeting was to produce a document that would assist Pope Francis and his brother bishops when they convene in October for the Synod on Young People, the Faith and Vocational Discernment. In producing the document, the representatives were encouraged to “express their view on the state of things, their ideas, their feelings and their recommendations.”
During the first full day, Pope Francis met with us for over three and half hours. During our time together, with the assistance of simultaneous translation, he spoke about the importance of listening to one another. He suggested that we take as our models Samuel and David from the Old Testament as both were young and eager to do the Lord’s Will. He also encouraged us to be courageous. He said that taking risks keeps us young, and if we do not take them we retire at age 20. Yet, in being courageous we also need prudence. After he shared his reflections, he heard testimonies and questions from around the world. His generosity and attentiveness were a true inspiration.
With his departure, our task began. Everyone was divided into a small language group consisting of about 15 people. As I recall, there were four Italian groups, four Spanish groups, four French groups, nine English groups, and four “virtual” groups for the young people participating online. In my small group I had people from: Japan, the Philippines, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Armenia, Romania, Australia, Pakistan, Canada, Indonesia, Ukraine, India, and Germany. The first day was devoted to examining the challenges and opportunities of young people in today’s world. We were given five questions to guide our discussion.
Each small group had to compose one document which would contribute to the final document as a synthesis of all the small group discussions. The discussions were incredibly enlightening and a testament to dialogue. The second part of the document was related to faith, vocational discernment, and accompaniment; and third part was aimed at the Church’s formative and pastoral activity. Everyone contributed and at times there were true connections. Other times our personal experiences and beliefs made it challenging to see connecting factors. Yet even among our differences the representatives tried their best to serve the Church during these meetings.
We met with our small groups throughout the day for the first half of the week. All participants would break for lunch and dinner. The meal times were extremely memorable. I had never before sat down at a dinner table with such diverse multicultural backgrounds! I found myself sitting at a dinner table with people from Switzerland, China, Italy, India, Poland, Peru, and more. It amazed me how many people spoke English. It was true experience of a worldview encounter.
Midway through the week, a writing committee composed of 14 young people began working to synthesize our small group documents. With simultaneous translation, we then met an additional three times as a large group. Suggestions and corrections were made before the committee composed the final document. The time ended together with a Mass celebrated by Pope Francis in Saint Peter’s square in which he received the final document.
Throughout the week I was able to find seven other people from the United States. Of the eight of us, three were from a religious community, including Brother Javier Hansen, FSC. I saw it as a wonderful manifestation of God’s Providence! I look forward to a final document written by Pope Francis after the Synod in October.
Sister Marie Faustina with other representatives from the United States. Photo courtesy of the District of San Francisco New Orleans.
Featured image courtesy of Vatican News.
Saint Mary’s hosts closing reception for ‘Cedar Tree: DISTILLED’ on April 24
WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Performance Center will host a closing reception for Sharon Mansur’s visual installation, “Cedar Tree: DISTILLED,” Tuesday, April 24, at 6 p.m.
“Cedar Tree: DISTILLED” reflects key elements from “Dreaming Under a Cedar Tree,” a performance and visual installation project with Middle Eastern flavor, which premiered in fall 2017 at Outpost Winona. Created and performed by Winona-based dance/visual artist Sharon Mansur, this immersive event invited people to share dance, visual art, food, and conversation while reflecting on Mansur’s Lebanese heritage, the complex and fluid nature of cultural identity, and the power of place in our dreams.
Mansur was inspired by the current U.S. political and social landscape to share this aspect of her background within an artistic context. The work offers a vehicle to engage with others regarding these themes, supporting increased understanding, empathy, and respect for difference.
“Cedar Tree: DISTILLED” is a selected array from that project’s multimedia installation, including family photographs; oil paintings by her father, Raymond T. Mansur; photographs from family visits to Lebanon; performance images; maps, text, cedar sculptures and other 3D objects; and video.
The reception will include light refreshments and an opportunity to meet the artist. The event is free and open to the public. The installation may be viewed in the Performance Center’s Ben Miller Lobby daily through April 24.
About the Artist
Sharon Mansur is a Winona-based contemporary dance and visual artist, educator, curator, body worker, mover, and shaker. Originally from Boston, Mass., her creative practice integrates improvisational techniques, somatic (body/mind) practices, collaborative approaches, and site-responsive art. She is also committed to dance as a transformational and healing catalyst for individuals and communities. Mansur’s performance projects and dance films have been presented throughout the U.S. and abroad.
About the Performance Center
Serving more than 25,000 visitors each year, the goal of the Performance Center at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is to be Southeastern Minnesota’s premier performing arts center, bringing artists and community together through imaginative programming, unique collaborations, a welcoming atmosphere, and exceptional service. The Performance Center strives to be the venue through which artists and community connect — where audiences can experience a variety of cultures through quality performances of music, theatre, and dance, and discover the relevance of the arts in their daily lives.
Activities are made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
Students invited to participate in Alladin theatre experience
WINONA, Minn. — Local students ages 7-18 are invited to participate in a week-long theatre experience April 23-28 in the musical production of the Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre version of the classic tale, “Alladin and his Magic Lamp.”
With script and music by Daniel Nordquist and costume and set design by Deborah Nelson-Pick, “Alladin” is an exotic journey full of fun and surprises. This experience will be beneficial for young actors of all skills. Available roles include: Alladin, his mother Harmonia, the Vagabonds, the Merchants, the Slaves of the Genie, the Giant Gemstones, the Sultan, the Princess Serena, Zanda the Tiger, the Maidens, the Vizier, and the Genie of the Ring.
Any student registered will be cast, and all cast members are required to participate in the audition process on Monday, April 23, to determine their role. Cast members must be available for rehearsals Monday to Friday, April 23-28, from 4 to 8:15 p.m., as well as performances on Friday, April 27, at 7 p.m. and Saturday, April 28, at 2 p.m. Performances are in the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts (MCA) Academy Theatre at the Valéncia Arts Center, 1164 W Howard St.
Students can register to participate at mca.smumn.edu. Cost is $65, with need-based scholarships available.
Tickets to the Friday and Saturday performances are $5 and will be on sale during MCA business hours April 23-28, and one hour prior to each performance. Cash or check only.
Visit prairiefirechildrenstheatre.com for more information about Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre.
MCA Dance Repertory Company presents ‘Cinderella’ at Saint Mary’s April 20-22
WINONA, Minn. — The popular fairy tale “Cinderella” will be brought to life April 20-22 at Saint Mary’s University by the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts (MCA) Dance Repertory Company. The performance features Saint Mary’s alumnus Jarod Boltjes, professional dancer with the St. Paul Ballet, who will be performing the role of The Prince.
“Cinderella” tells the story of a young girl, scorned by her comical stepmother and stepsisters, who finds true love and lives happily ever after with the help of her fairy godmother’s magic and a glass slipper. Originally choreographed in the mid-1940s by Rotislav Zakharov of the Bolshoi Ballet and Sir Frederick Ashton of the Sadler’s Wells Ballet, “Cinderella” continues to enchant audiences with the exquisitely fanciful score by Sergei Prokofiev.
For more than 40 years, the Dance Repertory Company has presented the Winona community with quality dance productions featuring local dancers in classical and contemporary works. The Dance Repertory Company performed “Cinderella” in 2006 and is excited for audiences to experience the magic again, with remounting of repertoire and updated takes on pieces and performance elements. Audience members will be entertained as this classical ballet tells the tale through dance, music, costumes, and scenery — including a huge pumpkin carriage to escort Cinderella to the ball.
The cast of more than 50 dancers ages 6 and up from Winona and surrounding communities includes: Jasmine Albrect, Layton Barnard, Erica Beckman, Emmie Dammen, Macy Donnenwerth, Abigail Ellenburg, Claire Ellings, Hannah Ellings, Grace Hendrickson, Elizabeth Hinz, Nadia Hocum, Aidan Indahl, Annabeth Kerr, Mattie Kreisel, Silvia Krzmarzick, Isabell Livingston, Nolan Livingston, Karly Lunda, Megan Lynch, Breanna McElmury, Isaac Meinke, Justine Meinke, Preston Meinke, Carmelle Meyer, Keeli Meyer, Natalia Minetto, Olivia Nelson, Rose Nelson, Anna Nungster, Makarah Olcott, Amanda Pohlman, Raina Racki, Marlee Ressa, Beatrice Sanders, Danielle Schleich, Laura Schleich, Natalie Schleich, Victoria Schroeder, Ella Skranka, Gavin Slavey, Alona Stenberg, Maya Strassburger, Emily Strom, Corrie Swenson, Kelly Swenson, Salome Tolvaisas, Isa Uribe, Max Uribe, Lucy Wilfahrt, Aza Theresa Williams-Carpenter, and Abbie Wishy.
Performances are April 20-21 at 7:30 p.m. and April 22 at 3 p.m. at the Page Theatre Performance Center on the Saint Mary’s Winona Campus. Call the box office for tickets at 507-457-1715 or purchase online at pagetheatre.smumn.edu. For more information about the Dance Repertory Company visit mca.smumn.edu.
Campus Compact awards honor Saint Mary’s individuals and Winona civic program
Minnesota Campus Compact Presidents’ Awards provide an opportunity for university presidents to give statewide recognition to leaders in civic engagement at their institutions. Two individuals and an organization were nominated by Brother William for the awards, which will be presented at the Campus Compact annual summit Thursday, April 19, in Saint Paul.
Receiving our Student Leadership Award is senior Daniel Olajonlu, who was cited for modeling a deep commitment to leadership and civic engagement. He is an active proponent of respect, solidarity, and inclusivity on the Winona Campus as shown by his leadership of Black Students and Allies. Daniel’s quiet guidance on issues of diversity speaks volumes to the students around him. He also received the Outstanding Male Senior Award earlier this year.
The Winona Community Warming Center will receive our Community Partner Award, cited for working with Saint Mary’s to enhance the quality of life in the community in meaningful and measurable ways, such as providing a safe, warm overnight stay for the homeless population of Winona County every night November-March. Offered through Catholic Charities for the Diocese of Winona, the Winona Community Warming Center works with various community agencies to meet the needs of their guests and is staffed by volunteers, including students.
The Civic Engagement Steward Award will go to Dr. Teresa Taylor, program director for Culturally Responsive Teaching, cited as a leader in promoting culturally responsive engagement. She has worked with faculty, staff, and students on the issues of diversity, inclusion, and intercultural competence. Teresa is a proponent of self-reflection, intentional dialogue, and community engagement, while promoting equitable leadership, organizational effectiveness, and transformative change.
The Rev. James P. Burns, IVD, Ph.D.
President
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
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