USD MAGAZINE UNIVERSITY OF SAN DIEGO / FALL 2014
october 10-12, 2014
REGISTER ONLINE NOW! About Face www.sandiego.edu/hfw The remarkable story of how LIAM McGEE ‘76 transformed The Hartford FROM THE PROVOST USD MAGAZINE UNIVERSITY OF SAN DIEGO
[president] Mary E. Lyons, PhD [octadic] [vice president university relations] Timothy L. O’Malley, PhD
[associate vice president university communications] Peter Marlow PAVING THE WAY [email protected] Eight new women faculty members join the university [editor/senior director] Julene Snyder s a new semester begins, I’m excited to welcome our community back [email protected]
to campus. Among them will be eight new faculty members who are [senior creative director] joining us as part of a five-year project to recruit and advance female Barbara Ferguson faculty in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. [email protected] ALaunched in the fall of 2012, and dubbed Advancing Female Faculty: Institutional [associate editor] Climate, Recruitment and Mentoring (AFFIRM), the project was supported by a Mike Sauer [email protected] $600,000 grant from the National Science Foundation. Please join me in welcoming these eight new professors, who will be working in an interdisciplinary cluster: [writers] Ryan T. Blystone Jessica Bell, PhD, is joining the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. Andrew Faught She completed two postdoctoral fellowships: one on the “structure/function studies involved in the Liz Harman cytotoxic T lymphocyte response,” and the second focused on the “structure/function studies of Trisha J. Ratledge Krystn Shrieve receptors that recognize pathogen, triggering our innate immune response.” Shawn Tully Molly Burke, PhD, will become a member of the Department of Biology. Her work in studying how Steven Wallace ‘00
organisms adapt to novel environments has shed light on how evolution shapes life-history traits like [usd magazine] aging and development. Her work is regarded as high-impact in the field of evolutionary biology and USD Magazine is published by the University was published in the journal Nature, where it received considerable acclaim and press coverage. of San Diego for its alumni, parents and friends. Third-class postage paid at San Diego, CA 92110. Engineering education scholar Odesma Dalrymple, PhD, will be joining the faculty of the Shiley-Marcos USD phone number: (619) 260-4600. School of Engineering. Her research has been on tools and techniques that can be readily applied in real engi- [torero notes submissions] neering learning environments to improve student learning and teaching. Her scholarly work is spread across Send Torero Notes to the mailing address multiple venues with the intent of primarily reaching practitioner educators at the university and K-12 levels. below or email them to: Mechanical engineer Imane Khalil, PhD, will also be joining the faculty of the Shiley-Marcos School of [email protected]. Engineering. Much of her career has focused on industrial and government research. After a stint at Hamilton [mailing address] Sundstrand, she worked at Sandia National Laboratories where she was a developer on nuclear power plant USD Magazine University Publications modeling software and Sandia’s primary physics simulation codes. There she managed teams of engineers University of San Diego working on multi-million dollar projects such as the Mars Curiosity Rover and the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. 5998 Alcalá Park Marine scientist Jennifer Prairie, PhD, joins the Department of Environmental and Ocean Sciences. San Diego, CA 92110 She specializes in biological-physical interactions in marine environments, particularly involving plankton. [change of address] For the past three years, Prairie was a postdoctoral researcher and visiting lecturer at the University of North Send address changes to USD Magazine, Advancement Services, 5998 Alcalá Park, Carolina at Chapel Hill in both the Department of Marine Sciences and the Department of Mathematics. San Diego, CA 92110. Amanda Ruiz, PhD, is joining the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science. When working [be blue go green] toward her doctorate in mathematics from Binghamton University, she started the Graduate Women’s USD Magazine is printed with vegetable-based Organization to help women support each other in the academic environment. She also served as presi- inks on paper certified in accordance with dent of the Binghamton University Parent’s Collective, an organization aimed at creating a community FSC standards, which support environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial and economically of graduate students who are juggling the responsibilities of school and children. viable management of the world’s forests. Joan Schellinger, PhD, will become a member of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. [0914/64250/ur-14-0603] Her teaching and research interests are in the areas of organic chemistry. Her research program at USD will involve working with undergraduate students towards the synthesis and evaluation of biologically relevant molecules focusing on chemical modification of peptides for increased bioactivity. Divya Sitaramin, PhD, joins the Department of Psychological Sciences. Her work has been devoted to understanding how genes alter cells and their excitability in producing dynamic neuronal circuits that underlie behavior. After her PhD training in behavioral neuroscience, she trained extensively in developing genetic tools and neurophysiological approaches in the pursuit of a rich and diverse research and teaching program. Please extend a warm welcome to these new faculty members. — Andrew T. Allen, PhD, Vice President and Provost USD MAGAZINE ALUMNI GIVE BACK Make a USD EDUCATION possible for the next generation of TOREROS
“I came into USD my freshman year knowing I had the passion and the drive to do something really wonderful and that God would put me on the path to find my mission in life. And I really believe that USD helped me find it. Now that I know how I will create justice in the world, I have peace in my heart. I’m committed to giving back to USD and I hope to inspire others to do the same.” — Justine Darling ’08, ’11 (MA)
As a donor and alumna, Justine knows that giving back is important. Please make your gift to support USD student scholars today.
Go to www.sandiego.edu/giving. USD MAGAZINE UNIVERSITY OF SAN DIEGO / FALL 2014
F E A T U R E CONTENTMENT IS THE GREATEST TREASURE.
16 / INTO THE AMAZON Stephen Wallace ’00 (JD) journeyed into the Ecuadoran Amazon to interview and photograph the Achuar people earlier this year. Although by our standards they live in primitive conditions, he found them uniformly happy, in harmony with the rainforest and its many inhabitants. CULTIVATING A CULTURE OF CARE. He wants to spread the word about why these content and self-sufficient people are now asking for help.
DEPARTMENTS
TORERO NEWS 4 / Idealism Into Practicum Keeping students engaged and excited about learning was the focus of an intense brain- storming session on campus over the summer.
USD MAGAZINE 4 5 / By the Numbers Check out some facts that show USD’s commitment to creating an empathetic and compassionate campus culture.
6 / Curious Beasts An art exhibition of prints is the first in a planned series CHANGE16 THE WORLD. ON THE COVER: in an unprecedented partnership with the British Museum. Photo of Liam McGee ‘76 by 8 / Family Legacy Jonathan Fickies/Bloomberg. ATHLETICS Martin Dickinson, local philanthropist and longtime donor 12 / Exactly Opposite to USD’s Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science, is the The receiving duo of Reggie epitome of civic pride. Bell ’15 and Brandon White ’15 10 / Closing the Gap have playing styles that New Veteran’s Student Services Center aims to better serve couldn’t be more different those who serve us, providing them with the resources they than one another, and that’s need to succeed at USD. a good thing. 12
2 USD MAGAZINE HARD WORK, DEDICATION AND DETERMINATION.
COVER STORY
20 / ABOUT FACE Few turnarounds have been as remarkable as that of The Hartford’s under CEO Liam McGee ’76. On his first day at work, he faced one of 20 the toughest rescue operations in the annals of the financial crisis. His job was simple: save a venerable institution that had been around so long that it had helped to finance the Golden Gate Bridge and the Hoover Dam. When he stepped down this past June, the company’s financial turn- around was largely complete. The story of his stewardship is a story of cultural transformation.
CELEBRATE LIFE AND ALL ITS MANY POSSIBILITIES.
ALUMNI UPDATE 24 / Red and White and Fun All Over USD’s sixth annual Wine Classic was the most successful to date.
TORERO NOTES 26 / The Ocean, So Blue 26 Jill Hepp’s shark conservation efforts 14 are part of a larger effort to manage the world’s oceans. CHANGE THE WORLD. 32 / Changemaking. Personified. FAITH IN ACTION A letter to USD President Mary E. Lyons, PhD, has a 14 / Going to the Chapel theme of circles within circles and what it means to Every week, couples are truly help transform the world. surrounded by family and friends at one of the most 36 / Ms. De Lara Goes to Washington beloved spaces on campus, The first student from USD to participate in a student where they celebrate their program at the nonprofit Washington Center, Michelle nuptials and pledge to (De Lara) Ibarra ’99 recalls her time in the nation’s capital 12 spend their lives together. as an invaluable component to her education.
FALL 2014 3 NEWS
[riveted] IDEALISM INTO PRACTICUM Campus consortium lays groundwork for student success by Julene Snyder he ideas were plentiful, engaged and excited about come up with examples of what the energy was intense learning over the next five years. inspires them about working TORERO T and the collective mood Among the attendees were with Student Affairs. was downright ebullient. Colorful Associate Dean of Students/ “After that post-it note exercise, post-it notes covered the walls, Director of Student Affairs Assess- we asked them to think of head- making a sort of inspirational ment and Planning Margaret Leary lines we want to see in five years,” patchwork quilt: “Watching stu- (above left), Associate Provost for explained Leary. “Recurring dents grow/transform.” “Passion Inclusion and Diversity Esteban themes were more financial aid so for changemaking.” “Culture of del Rio (above right), Vice Presi- that more students can afford to care.” “Aha moments for students.” dent and Provost Andy Allen go here, a continuing focus on This summer, dozens of cam- and sophomore Crash Ketchum diversity and developing students’ pus partners got together with (above center). healthy mind, body and spirit.” more than 100 members of USD’s Judging by the wealth of Some of those headlines were Student Affairs Division to get ideas that emerged from the aspirational (“USD Student Loan specific about how the university two-day session, participants Debt Lowest in Nation”); some
TORERO NEWS is planning to keep students didn’t have to dig very deep to were whimsical (“USD Creates
4 USD MAGAZINE Designed to take USD through 2019, the plan has two initiatives: to stress the concepts of learning without borders, and living USD values. Learning without borders emphasizes the creation of inclu- Associate Provost for Inclusion and sive spaces and places, working Diversity Esteban del Rio, PhD, has in partnership with faculty as been addressing USD’s commitment to well as systems and technology, creating an empathetic and compas- and providing student access to services. Living USD values sionate campus culture for years. stresses healthy mind, body and spirit, diversity and inclusive He says, “It’s about creating the com- excellence, and a commitment to munity we say we’re supposed to be.” local and global changemaking. Toward that end, Dr. del Rio has created Of course, making sure the a strategic plan for diversity and inclu- community is welcoming to all is sive excellence that plots a course important. Dr. del Rio believes the through 2020. He explains, “USD’s roots whole campus community should be involved. “Everyone who works in Catholicism are the cornerstone of at USD needs to see a way that this plan, as is our conviction that all their work can fit into being ready human beings are created by God and and prepared to respect others’ thus deserve dignity, love and respect.” diverse experiences.” His strategic plan for diversity and inclusive excellence aims to Years17 the United Front Multicultural “conceptualize difference as a manifestation of culture, espe- Center (UFMC) has been present in the cially in the context of the Catho- USD community. lic intellectual tradition.” Allen stresses the importance of a holistic approach to educat- 38
MANTOANI Percent of all entering Fall 2013 first-
TIM ing our undergraduates, he says. year and transfer students identified “It’s about mind, body and spirit,” as underrepresented and underserved. he says. “As a faith-based institu- Youtopia”); and some were tion, we need to make sure our extremely specific (“All USD Stu- students grow spiritually. It’s our Percent34 of undergraduates enrolled dents Received Their Flu Shots.” job to take them out of their com- But the common thread woven fort zone, to get them out into the in Fall 2013 that identified as part of throughout was the genuine car- world and see other cultures and this group. ing of those in the room. All were other ways of doing things.” determined to transform ideal- Ketchum, a marine biology ism into practicum. major who’ll be serving as Associ- 90Percent of students from underserved In many ways, building a bet- ated Students chief of staff this and underrepresented populations who ter student life experience comes year, says it was cool to witness re-enrolled from Fall 2011 to Fall 2012. down to building stronger rela- the thought and passion that tionships. “We want to work goes into planning for future stu- more closely with faculty in inte- dents. “Plus I got to connect with Percent24 increase of full-time international grating the academic and non- people I don’t normally connect academic experience,” says Leary. with,” he recalls with a grin. “I first-year students from Fall 2012 to “We’re looking to create seamless mean, I spoke to the whole group. Fall 2013. learning, in and out of the class- Afterwards, Student Affairs Vice room.” And that worthy goal is President Carmen Vazquez came going to require buy-in from up to me and gave me a hug. She Percent14 of 2013 undergraduates eligible across campus: “Our plan is to said, ‘Thank you Crash, for being for a Pell grant. integrate this approach in a coor- here. We really needed you.’ I felt dinated effort, for both faculty really special and valued. I want and non-faculty.” that for other students too.”
FALL 2014 5 (Below) Francisco de Goya, TORERO NEWS Al toro y al aire darles calle, etching, aquatint, and drypoint, 1816-1824, © The Trustees of the British Museum; (at right) George Crukshank, The Mermaid!, hand- colored etching, 1822, © The Trustees [wondrous] of the British Museum. CURIOUS BEASTS Major partnership between British Museum and USD
will feature singular works such as Albrecht Dürer’s famed woodcut, Rhinoceros (1515), George Stubbs’ etching, A Sleeping Leopard (1791) and Francisco de Goya’s aquatint Al toro y al aire darles calle (1816-24), alongside other less known and seldom seen treasures. These works were typically small-scale, easily transported, comparatively affordable and were also accessible to many levels of society. They comprise a fascinating record of early modern imagination, creativity and popular tastes. “From the early Renaissance forward, European artists were intrigued by discoveries of new species and participated in efforts to understand the wondrous creatures in both scientific and creative terms,” by Liz Harman Cartwright explains. “The British he British are coming! series of three collaborations The exhibition, which runs Museum’s holdings offer an And they’re bringing that “will result in extraordinary from Oct. 3-Dec. 12, examines unparalleled opportunity to T rhinos, tigers and all images coming to San Diego, humanity’s enduring curiosity study these images, and we manner of beasts with them many for the first time,” says about the animal world plan to make the most of to USD. This fall, the university Derrick Cartwright, Director of through the beautiful and having these works with us will begin a five-year partner- University Galleries and Profes- occasionally bizarre imagery throughout the fall term.” ship with the revered British sor in the Department of Art, found in the British Museum’s The exhibition is divided into Museum, which holds one of Architecture + Art History. “No vast collection of more than four sections. After a brief intro- the most extensive and historic other San Diego arts institution two million prints. Curious ductory section, a large group collection of prints and draw- has ever collaborated with the Beasts features 86 rare wood- of prints will illustrate the sym- ings in the world. British Museum at this level.” cuts, engravings, etchings, bolic and allegorical roles that The exhibition, Curious Beasts: The partnership will also mezzotints and lithographs animals have played through Animal Prints from Dürer to include opportunities for USD from the 15th to the 19th the ages. Another section Goya, in USD’s Hoehn Family students to intern and study centuries. explores how prints were used Galleries, is the first in a planned abroad in London. Specifically, Curious Beasts to understand the natural world
6 USD MAGAZINE [gifts at work]
The John and Gerry McGee The Bill Hannon Foundation Endowed Scholarship Fund, has awarded $75,000 to the totaling more than $550,000, College of Arts and Sciences for was established by Mr. and Mrs. scholarships in art, music and McGee through a bequest from theatre. Previously, Hannon has their estate. This McGee Family endowed scholarships that have legacy will provide scholarships supported USD students study- to graduate students pursuing ing in the areas of marine sci- teaching credentials. This ence, nonprofit management, extraordinarily thoughtful gift engineering and peace, as well will produce annual scholarship as students who are recognized funds of more than $22,000. as USD Changemakers. The foun- dation supports Roman Catholic CIGNA University has given higher education, primarily in the $100,000 to support USD’s 2014 Los Angeles area. Women PeaceMakers Program. The program, in its 12th year Michele ’84 and Ken Moore at the Joan B. Kroc Institute for gave $50,000 for the second Peace and Justice, documents the year in a row to the Kenneth E. stories and best practices of inter- and Michele L. Moore Endowed national women leaders. Each Scholarship Fund at the School year, four international fellows are of Business Administration (SBA). chosen to spend two months in Distributions from this fund are residency at USD, where they used to provide annual scholar- speak to classes and give presen- ships to deserving and qualified tations on efforts to defend undergraduate students in the human rights and build peace in SBA who demonstrate financial their countries. CIGNA University need. Michele attended USD on and how these images were put The presentation of prints is the educational arm of CIGNA scholarship and was very appre- to use within the scientific com- from the British Museum will Corporation and provides on- ciative of the support she munity. A final section demon- be augmented by a selection demand learning at no charge received which enabled her to strates how prevalent animals of prints of animal subjects via www.itstimetofeelbetter.com. become a Torero. Both she and were in the everyday life of from USD’s own rapidly grow- Ken are excited to have the people from the 16th through ing collection. Due to the School of Law alumnus Jack opportunity to give back to the 19th centuries and how they generosity of a number of McGrory, ’81 (JD), gave next generation of USD students. came to be viewed as artistic donors, USD’s print collection $100,000 to help fund expansion Michele has also recently joined subjects in their own right. has nearly doubled in size over of the law school’s commitment the SBA Board of Advisors. Alison Wright, the British the past two years and now to serving veterans of the U.S. Museum’s curator of the exhibi- represents one of San Diego’s military. His gift will support This spring, the newly minted tion, says she’s delighted that most important visual resources USD’s Initiative to Protect Stu- Torero Clubs led the inaugural the project will be coming to for print culture. dent Veterans efforts — which Torero Regional Rally. This USD. “The British Museum’s The prints that will be shown educate and protect military vet- friendly competition had the astonishing collection of prints alongside the British Museum’s erans from the misleading prac- goal of raising money for stu- has proved a wonderfully rich works include some of the tices of some for-profit educa- dent scholarships while boost- resource for exploring the finest works in the university’s tional institutions and lenders ing alumni participation in the ways in which the natural world print collection, with rare exam- through statewide and national process. The Chicago, Ill. and has inspired and fascinated ples of USD’s own images by advocacy. Additionally, his gift Kansas City, Mo. clubs were the artists across the centuries. It’s Dürer and Goya, as well as will support veterans needing first to reach the 15 percent a privilege now to be able to several recent acquisitions. assistance with discharge goal, with Kansas City alumni share the show with an institu- upgrades and Veterans Adminis- edging out the competition tion with such an outstanding For more about the exhibition and tration disability claims appeals, with 23.5 percent participation. commitment to the study and upcoming events, go online to by providing free legal assistance USD’s overall alumni participa- appreciation of prints.” www.sandiego.edu/galleries. through USD’s Veterans Legal Clinic. tion rate is 12.51 percent.
FALL 2014 7 Civic leader Martin Dickinson TORERO NEWS (pictured with his wife, Carol) heads the Donald C. And Elizabeth M. Dickinson Foundation, which has made significant contributions to USD’s Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science. [torchbearer] FAMILY LEGACY Martin Dickinson links generations through civic pride
by Trisha J. Ratledge or some, retirement brings of Oklahoma City. His wife, Car- long-anticipated time to ol, is similarly engaged, serving Frest and reflect on a life on the boards of the San Diego well lived. For Martin Dickinson, Botanic Garden and Mingei Inter- retirement definitely opened up national Museum, among others. time, but not for rest. In fact, Today, as president of the after more than 40 years in the Donald C. and Elizabeth M. banking industry, Dickinson has Dickinson Foundation, which spent many more hours in the was named for his parents and boardroom than on the back funded largely by their estate porch since turning in his corpo- after they passed away, Dickinson rate key. He doesn’t mind; he and his family support about considers it his family’s legacy 20 organizations primarily in San to advance the work of organi- Diego County that are dedicated zations throughout San Diego, to education or the medical arts. including longtime support of Dickinson’s children serve USD’s Hahn School of Nursing the foundation as well, with son, and Health Science. Kris, as executive director and Born in room 703 at San daughter, Rebecca, as a member Diego’s Mercy Hospital during of the board. All of the founda- the Great Depression, Dickinson tion’s efforts pay homage to learned early that a community Dickinson’s parents, including is not just where you live; it is a the group’s significant contribu- part of who you are. His mom, tions to USD’s School of Nursing. a homemaker who was active in Since the late 1990s, the the community, and his dad, a Dickinson Foundation has awarded banker and former Eagle Scout $1.4 million to support the who lived with a heart condition nursing school’s efforts — and in
resulting from rheumatic fever, DICKINSON MARTIN OF COURTESY particular, the Master’s Entry Pro- quietly supported the organiza- gram in Nursing. The Dickinson tions that were important to he would say, ‘I’ll do it for you, founded Legacy Bank, which Foundation awarded a gift of them, such as the Boy Scouts of but don’t mention my name.’” ultimately merged with Land- $2 million to the school in 2013 America, The Salvation Army and After earning a BA in eco- mark National Bank. for the Elizabeth Dickinson Scripps Hospital. The emphasis nomics, Dickinson served four True to his parents’ example, Smoyer Nursing Simulation was always on “quietly.” years in the Navy, then earned Dickinson became a civic leader Center in memory of Dickinson’s “My dad would get a call from an MBA in finance and rose to as well, lending his expertise sister, who was active in the family The Salvation Army at Thanks- leadership positions in many to 25 corporate and nonprofit foundation and passed away in giving and they would say, ‘We of San Diego’s top commercial boards over the years, from CBS 2012. The new clinical simulation don’t have enough money to banking institutions, including to Scripps Health to the Nation- and education center, which will hold the Thanksgiving dinner La Jolla Bank & Trust Company al Cowboy & Western Heritage be built as part of the Betty and this year,’” Dickinson recalls. “And and Scripps Bank. He then co- Museum in his dad’s hometown Bob Beyster Institute for Nursing
8 USD MAGAZINE Research, Advanced Practice, [transnational] and Simulation, will expand upon the school’s renowned clinical simulation program and serve as a national model for nursing education. “Having been associated with ¡VIVA MADRID! the Scripps Health Board for USD establishes permanent center in Spain many years, it was evident that one of the challenges hospitals by Ryan T. Blystone ranked among the top three rooms, mobile learning technol- face is finding enough qualified he University of San Diego universities for its percentage ogy capabilities as well as nurses and administrators,” Dick- is a leader in providing of undergraduate students par- meeting and study spaces. inson says. “The nursing school T international education ticipating in undergraduate An inauguration celebration is turning out the master’s and experiences for students study abroad in each of the for the center will take place on PhD students who fill those roles. through study abroad programs past five years via the Institute Nov. 17 in Madrid. Celebrants We are not a brick-and-mortar in more than 70 countries. And of International Education’s will include President Mary E. charitable organization, but this now, USD has established its Open Door Data. Lyons, PhD, board of trustee building is essential for (Dean) first permanent international “This is a natural progression. members, alumni and friends of Sally (Brosz Hardin) to be able studies facility in Madrid, Spain. It’s about expanding our foot- the University of San Diego. to expand her organization.” Denise Dimon, USD’s associ- print,” says Dimon, a veteran “This center definitely puts “The Hahn School of Nursing ate provost for international USD economics professor and USD on the map,” International and Health Science has been a affairs, announced recently that director of the International Studies Abroad Director Kira pioneer in bringing nursing the university signed a lease for Center and Ahlers Center for Espiritu says. “USD is not just simulation to educate advanced a 10,000-square-foot space in International Business. “There talking about international practice nurses,” says Hardin. the heart of Madrid, near Retiro is something very special about education, we’re walking the “Mr. Dickinson has been a won- Park, the Prado Museum and Madrid. It’s important that USD walk. When students return derful spokesperson for us and tree-lined streets replete with is in Spain. It’s about the Span- from Madrid they’ll know has volunteered his personal sidewalk cafes, shops and more. ish culture, the people, the lan- they’ve had a true international time to help us. Very few people The opening of the USD guage and the city itself.” experience.” understand how significant the Madrid Center once again raises Dimon says the facility will role of nursing is, especially USD’s international profile, have “many active learning To learn more, go online to graduate-prepared nurses, and which has been nationally spaces,” with multiple class- www.sandiego.edu/madridcenter. Mr. Dickinson and his family get that. We are very grateful to him and to the entire Dickinson family for their support.” Embracing more of the “rest” side of retirement recently, Martin and Carol Dickinson are carving out time for their hobby of attending art auctions and art shows to collect Western art, and for travel, often to visit grandchildren in college. And just as his parents did for him, Dickinson continues to demon- strate the importance of his family legacy for these younger generations the best way he knows how: by quiet example. “I have always felt very strongly — as my mom and dad did — about giving back to the people and the community we live in,” Dickinson says. “I have a good life in San Diego, so it’s impor- tant to support the community Then-USD students Heather Rasameetham ‘14 and Hillary Gomez ‘13 studied abroad in Madrid in 2011. and help it grow.”
FALL 2014 9 USD Veteran Student Services TORERO NEWS Coordinator Laura Paquian (center) is flanked by USD students (from left to right) Adrimarie Ramirez, Bethany Woloszyn-Redman, Ruben Orosco and Steve Leader. [bastion] CLOSING THE GAP New USD Veteran’s Center serves those who serve us
by Mike Sauer or the better part of three learned how vitally important it active-duty to civilian — even that they’re typically unfamiliar decades, Laura Paquian is to provide service men and when they don’t ask for it. with,” says Paquian, who now Fearned her stripes as an women with the resources, “One of the things you learn serves as USD’s veteran student educational counselor and support and encouragement about veterans is that they services coordinator. “Life in career coach in the United they need to make a seamless typically don’t look for help; the military is very regimented; States Navy. Along the way, she and successful transition from there’s a vulnerability in that, in that kind of system, it’s very easy to find what you’re looking for. That’s not always the case in civilian life.” And in the case of the men and women who seek to advance their educational and career opportunities by returning to college after they rotate out of service, that transition can be jarring. Student veterans who may have been out of school for years — as well as those fresh out of the military — can find it challenging to connect with their new class- mates, who are often many years younger and unfamiliar with military culture. As if that hurdle isn’t high enough, there’s also the strug- gle to find their niche. A study at Arizona State University suggests the power of social relationships directly impacts a veteran’s decision to stay in school. Post-traumatic stress and multiple deployments are thought to unravel the ability of some to connect with their campus community — and sub- sequently stay in school long enough to earn their degrees. Since veteran’s priorities are often different from those
TIM MANTOANI TIM of the typical college co-ed,
10 USD MAGAZINE what can USD do to recruit [Innovative] and retain members of this valued and highly motivated student demographic? Enter BREAKING GROUND [etc.] the newly constructed University of San Diego Veteran’s Center, Construction begins on Beyster USD is ranked 14th nationally a place where student veterans in the 2014 “Cool Schools” list can connect with their peers, Institute for Nursing Research of the greenest colleges and share experiences and enhance by Liz Harman universities, according to a list their comfort level with life his spring, USD officially includes the Krause Family PhD released by Sierra magazine in on campus. broke ground on the Research Library/Study, which August. “Toreros everywhere can After researching available T$18 million Betty and was made possible by a gift take pride in our efforts to cut on-campus resources for veter- Bob Beyster Institute for Nursing from Gale and James Krause. water use, reduce energy costs, ans at peer-group institutions Research, Advanced Practice, The third-floor research center recycle electronic waste and plan (private, faith-based universities) and Simulation (BINR). The insti- houses three units that focus on wisely to conserve resources for here in California, Paquian found tute “ultimately will stand as a sym- critical health care issues of perina- generations to come,” said USD that USD is the only school with bol that nursing is indeed a sci- tal women’s health; healthy aging, President Mary E. Lyons, PhD. a dedicated space for student ence, as well as an art, and that cognition and end-of-life care as veterans. That’s a huge advan- nursing research and practice save well as military and veterans’ physi- Patricia Márquez, PhD, tage, especially given the large lives,” said Sally Brosz Hardin, PhD, cal and mental health. There also began her role as dean of military community on USD’s RN, FAAN, dean of USD’s Hahn will be an innovative Elder Adult the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace doorstep. “We have such School of Nursing and Health Sci- Laboratory Apartment to assess Studies in August. “The Kroc a large armed forces presence ence, who spoke to some 200 and conduct research on the elder- School has a most powerful here in San Diego, and the Vet- guests on the lawn adjacent to the ly’s functional status and activities vision laid out by Mrs. Kroc: ‘to eran’s Center will be such an nursing school where the new facil- of daily living, along with high- build a unique school for schol- important recruiting tool to ity will be constructed. The 30,000- tech and executive classrooms. ars and practitioners to advance attract the best and brightest square-foot, three-story building A lead gift of $8 million from Dr. the work of peace and justice,’” from the various branches here will be connected to the current and Mrs. J. Robert Beyster helped she says. “My goal is to lead the in town,” Paquian says. school by a bridge and a plaza. make the institute possible. Other school to fulfill that vision.” The center, which opened The new building will include donors include School of Nursing this fall, is designed to function The Elizabeth Dickinson Smoyer faculty, 90 percent of whom have Dee Aker, PhD, was named as a one-stop shop where Nursing Simulation Center, the contributed to the BINR, alumni, director of the Joan B. Kroc students can have questions keystone of the school’s clinical students, staff and friends. “We are Institute for Peace and Justice answered on topics ranging teaching facilities. The center was so grateful to our donors who (IPJ) of the Kroc School of Peace from military benefits and funded by the San Diego-based share our vision for an institute Studies, effective Sept. 1, 2014. financial aid packages to pro- Dickinson Foundation, which has that will allow us to significantly She has been serving as interim fessional networking opportu- been a committed supporter of influence nursing policy and prac- director of the IPJ. Everard (Ev) nities. Located on the second the school for more than a decade. tice at the regional, national and Meade, PhD, was named director floor of the Hahn University The Beyster Institute also global levels,” Hardin said. of the Kroc School of Peace Stud- Center, the space will include ies’ Trans-Border Institute in an all-purpose area where March; he is a published scholar students can hold meetings, with extensive experience teach- study sessions, or just relax ing courses on the history of and talk with folks who under- Mexico and human rights. stand their experiences and speak their language. After 16 years as dean of the “I have a very neat picture School of Leadership and Educa- of how it’s all going to work in tion Sciences (SOLES), Paula Cor- my head,” Paquian says, smiling. deiro, EdD, has elected to step “The center’s going to be a down and return to a faculty great place for our veteran position in the summer of 2015. students to get to know each During her tenure as dean, SOLES other and network, but it’s achieved significant milestones. also a place where they can The school is consistently ranked go and blow off steam, know- in the top 100 schools of educa- ing that the people there tion in the nation and all pro- understand exactly what USD President Mary E. Lyons, PhD, Betty Beyster and School of gram areas now hold national Nursing Dean Sally Hardin, PhD, RN, FAAN. they’re going through.” ABADILLA NICK accreditation.
FALL 2014 11 While their styles may differ, TORERO ATHLETICS USD wide receivers Brandon White (left) and Reggie Bell (right) are both exceptional talents.
[compatible] EXACTLY OPPOSITE Exceptional USD receivers thrive on their differences
heart. He volunteered to orga- nize a variety of team drills over the offseason and served as drill sergeant in-residence when the players hit the weight room. “No one has worked harder in preparation for this season than Reggie, and he sets an extremely high standard,” Martin says. Nicknamed “the silent assas- sin” by his coaches, White’s cool, calm and collected per- sonality stands in stark contrast to Bell’s vociferousness. His height and silky-smooth style have made him a very attractive target for USD quarterbacks, especially when the Toreros are on the march deep in their opponent’s territory. “I know I’m not the fastest guy in the world, but I know how to get open,” White says. “I know how to use my height, and I can read
TIM MANTOANI TIM the ball well when it’s in the air, so either I catch it, or nobody does.” by Mike Sauer More often that not, those f you’ve spent any time at always greater than the sum of Bell is a fleet and frenetic force catches end up putting points Torero Stadium over the its parts. And both are more than of nature who led the Toreros on the board for the Toreros. Ipast few seasons watching willing to put in the work it takes in receptions (65), and receiving White led the team with 12 USD football’s prolific passing to reach their maximum potential yards (1,050) in 2013. He also has touchdown receptions in 2013, attack wreak havoc on opposing on the field. no problem letting teammates and he feels he can add to that defenses, consider yourself for- And that’s where their similari- know exactly how he feels they’re impressive total this year — with tunate. After all, it’s not every ties end. performing — be it good or bad. a little help from his pass-catch- year — or every few years, or “Both Reggie and Brandon are “I’m a vocal leader, and I expect a ing partner, of course. even every decade for that mat- dynamic athletes who have the lot out of my teammates,” he says. “Reggie’s so smart, he’s got a ter — that you’ll have a chance ability to change a game with “I know what it takes to win, and lot of different moves that he can to witness a more dynamic one play,” says USD Football if we’re not doing what we need teach me that I’m sure will help receiving duo than Reggie Bell Receivers Coach Cory Martin. to do on the field to be successful, my game,” he says. “We may not ’15 and Brandon White ’15. “Their playing styles couldn’t I’ll let people know.” look or play alike on the field, Both possess an unbridled pas- be much more different though, As the reigning offensive but we’re always pushing each sion for the game of football. and that’s a good thing.” MVP for the Toreros, Bell takes other to be better, and that’s Both believe that the whole is A fifth-year redshirt senior, his responsibilities as a leader to what makes us so effective.”
12 USD MAGAZINE GETTING TO KNOW ... SPORTS BRIEFS
In late June, USD announced that Bill Grier received a contract extension to remain as head coach of the USD Men’s Basketball program. In 2014, Grier helped guide the Toreros back into the postseason for the second time in his seven-year tenure. He’s also been at the helm for all three of USD’s NCAA Division I postsea- son wins, which includes the thrill- ing victory over the University of Connecticut in the first round of the 2008 NCAA Tournament.
Former USD standout Kris Bryant has been nothing short of phenomenal during his stint in the Chicago Cubs minor league organization — and one of baseball’s top talent scouts has taken notice. ESPN Lead Baseball Analyst Keith Law recently ranked Bryant No. 1 on his “Top 50 MLB Prospects” list, and says it’s only a matter of time before we see the former Torero displaying his prodigious talents at the major league level.
It was a season to remember for USD rugby. They were the first team in club history to go
MANTOANI undefeated in conference play, TIM finishing with a perfect 7-0 AGE: 33. HOMETOWN: Rochester, NY. SUPERLATIVES: record in the Pacific Gold Coast A five-time West Coast Conference (WCC) coach of the Rugby Conference. The club KIM CUPINI year in women’s rowing, Cupini led the Toreros to the maintained its momentum all program’s first-ever NCAA National Championships appearance in 2014. As a three-time team the way through the postseason, MVP and two-time All-WCC performer during her student rowing days at USD, Cupini knows what ultimately earning a ticket to it takes to be great — and inspires her charges with a simple mantra. “I ask our athletes to believe the Final Four of Division I-AA in the power of gratitude for their experience, and the willingness to reach their greatest potential National Rugby, held in May, as athletes and as people.” PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT: “We work extremely hard in the offseason at Stanford University. The dream and motivate each other. We’ve developed a culture of fitness and overall health that is vital to run ended with a loss to Central the development of our athletes, along with the support they give each other.” DOWNTIME? “In Florida in the national semifinal, order for me to be at my best in coaching and life, keeping up my fitness is very important. I love but there’s plenty of optimism to be out in nature: cycling, running, surfing, you name it. It keeps me grounded and focused. for future success.“It was an I also try to compete when I can to stay in touch with that feeling the athletes have to go through.” incredible year, with our senior PRINCESS OF TIDES: “I was an environmental studies major, and I’ve always loved the water. leadership stepping up and set- I try to use my knowledge of the local tides to maximize our efficiencies during practice, and it ting the expectations from day can make a big difference. Anything to get an edge, right?” one,” says USD Rugby Head Coach Andrew Castle.
FALL 2014 13 Nicole “Niki” Even ‘06 (BA) was FAITH IN ACTION married to Jeffrey Barrios at Founders Chapel on April 26, 2014. Many alumni were in attendance (as evidenced in photo below).
[nuptials] GOING TO THE CHAPEL Sacrament of marriage a living example of Christ’s love ne of the most beloved spaces on campus, Founders Chapel has an even more special place in the hearts of those who marry there. Weddings there are reserved for alumni, faculty, staff and administrators, as well Oas the children of those groups. And at least one of the marriage partners must be Catholic. “All of our brides and grooms have a deep connection to the university,” explains Founders Chapel Wedding Coordinator Darlene Polak. “That makes these weddings all the more special, because the couples have such a deep love for this campus and for the chapel itself.” In guidelines that are provided to each couple, USD’s Vice President of Mission and Ministry, Monsignor Daniel J. Dillabough ‘70 provides sage advice: “You have been given the opportunity by a specific community of faith to share their worship space with you for your special day. May the Lord greatly bless your marriage, and may your happiness together be limitless.” ZELO PHOTOGRAPHY ZELO
14 USD MAGAZINE HALF FULL PHOTOGRAPHY FULL HALF HEATHER MANLY ’02 ’05 (MEd) and Kevin Dooley ’93 were married at Founders Chapel on August 16, 2014 with several fellow alumni in attendance. Heather will take over as Alumni Association board president in July 2015; Kevin is the founder of the USD Wine Classic. The couple met at USD’s Alumni Honors event in 2008. EISENHOWER PHOTOGRAPHY EISENHOWER BILL BERGHOFF ’92 (BBA) and Lyndell Werling (BBA, ‘94) were married in Founders Chapel on April 26, 2014. Bill is president of Sportsplex USA with locations in Poway, Calif. and Santee, Calif. Lyndell is a project manager for Compass Analytics. “We were thrilled to get married on the campus where we met.” DAVID GUTIERREZ DAVID JOEY & APRIL BERTOCCHINI APRIL & JOEY PAMELA CAPPIELLO ‘12 (MA), shown at left, was married to Diego Armando Gonzalez at Founders Chapel on June 7, 2014.”Founders Chapel is beautiful!
We are so lucky to have had the privilege to be wed in this chapel.” OWENS BUTCH BRANDON McCREARY ’10 (MA ’12) and Lindsay Yuen ‘09 married June 7, 2014 in ANNIE (TOTH) McILVAINE ’07 (BA) married Drew McIlvaine on June 15, 2013 Founders Chapel. The couple met on Brandon’s first day of move-in, as Lindsay in Founders Chapel (shown at right). More than 20 USD alumni and staff were was the resident assistant downstairs. Other USD grads in the wedding party in attendance. “We had a long engagement,” she writes. “Drew is in the Navy included Julie Boyle Dewberry ‘09, Jennifer Gunsch ’09 (JD ’13), Alan Tun ‘10 and and was deployed for nine months, returning home just four weeks before the Brett McCreary 12. Brandon is currently on staff at USD, working as a community wedding. We were so fortunate to have Father Owen Mullen as our officiant.” director of Maher Hall, where the couple resides.
FALL 2014 15 IntoUP CLOSE AND the PERSONAL AmazonIN THE RAINFOREST WITH THE ACHUAR PEOPLE
The Pastaza and Kawapi Rivers in Ecuador come together near the border of Peru. At their confluence, fresh water pink dolphins rise to the surface and nod their heads, as if to say hello. Nearby, toucans and parrots eat clay that neutralizes the poison in the berries they have just eaten. These animals are a part of the eco- system that is as pure and unadulterated as any in the world. These pristine surroundings are also inhabited by the Achuar people, who put on face paint to protect themselves from harm while moving through the rainforest. They live in harmony and in reverence of the rivers, trees and animals that inhabit their spectacular surroundings. The rainforest is where the Achuar find their food, medicines and raw materials to construct anything they need. It is their sacred place of worship. The Achuar live without electricity. They have no automobiles or roads. They hunt with blowguns and curare darts. They believe the dreams they have while consuming hallucinogenic plants all come true. They are self sufficient, needing nothing from the outside world. So, why are they so frightened?
1416 USD MAGAZINE Words and Photography by Stephen Wallace ’00 In the spring of 2014, I spent eight days with the Achuar people, paralyze animals was used in the U.S. for many years as a muscle photographing and interviewing five families, including a shaman. relaxant during surgery. As an anesthesiologist, I have used curare I was fortunate to find a guide who spoke English and Achuar. All in operating rooms. four villages I visited sat high on elevated banks above rivers, and the I asked the shaman how he treats illness. The shaman’s facial expression scenery was breathtaking. became very serious as he told me how he cures everything from earaches My guide and I took a canoe up and down the Kawapi River to reach to anxiety. He explained that all maladies of the body are produced by evil the four villages. Once near a village, we would walk up the bank to spirits that can come into a person without their knowledge. where the Achuar huts were located. My guide would go ahead, and His primary means of affecting a cure is a mixture known to the obtain permission for me to enter the family’s home. Achuar as “ayahuasca,” which contains a very potent hallucinogen. Their huts are tall, impressive structures, approximately 25 feet high, He went on to explain that it causes the taker to have “dreams” that with roofs made from palm fronds. For the most part, the homes are purge the body of the evil spirits. The visual and auditory hallucinations open on three sides so friends can come and go. There are benches last about four hours. He uses a mixture of two vines he grinds to around the circumference of the hut for visitors to sit. Some of the huts powder and then turns into a liquid. The two plants used are “natem” have a small, enclosed area at one end for sleeping. The cooking is done and “yayi,” which are ground with a mortar and pestle and then on an open fire. Chickens and dogs walk freely through the homes. placed in a pot to be heated over an open fire for approximately three hours. This powerful hallucinogenic mixture has been studied by doc- First, my guide and the father of the family exchanged what tors at UCLA and acts much like LSD. seemed to be a set dialogue in which both talked at the same time. The active chemical in ayahuasca is DMT, which has been known to After a couple of minutes I was told by my guide to introduce myself western medicine since the 1960s. It is amazing that people with no and explain why I was there. I spoke in English. My guide would interpret knowledge of pharmacology discovered this mixture. Research at UCLA what I had said. indicates ayahausca stimulates the production of serotonin receptors I thanked the man of the house for the honor of entering his home in the brain, which may be very beneficial for treating depression. and for allowing me to speak with him and take pictures of him and his The knowledge imparted to us by the Achuar could possibly even lead family. The father would welcome me and thank me for visiting his family. to a major new pharmaceutical for mental illness. The Achuar were beyond gracious. After introductions, I was given permission to ask questions, which I found the families I visited to be uniformly happy, judging were all answered by the father. My first questions were, “What is your by the way they described their lives and by their expressions when they daily life like? What do you and your family do every day?” This would described their family and community. usually bring the first smile on my host’s face and then he would answer. I asked them if there were material things they needed. The universal answer was, “No, we have everything we want.” I asked what they would The Achuar have a set routine. They wake up at three in the morn- like for their children’s future. The answer was always, “What we have now.” ing and drink “wayus,” a bitter drink that causes them to vomit. They My next to last question was always, “Do you have any fears?” With this believe the vomiting cleans them out to start the day fresh. The next question the expressions turned serious. Again there was a universal few hours are spent telling stories with the entire family present. These answer, “Oil companies.” They have been told there is oil under the jungle stories provide guidance to the children and preserve the history of their where they live. people. In the United States, we would call it spending quality time. They have also been told the outside world wants it. After the sun comes up, there is fishing, hunting and gardening. The Anchaur know what has happened in other parts of Ecuador and The women do the gardening, which includes harvesting the roots of Peru, where drilling has occurred. The petroleum industry has been in the native manioc plant to make “chichi,” a slightly fermented white liq- northern Ecuador and Peru for many years and has intentionally dumped uid, later in the day. The men do the hunting and fishing. Fishing may be extreme amounts of crude oil directly on the surface of the land occupied with a line and hook or a special basket filled with a crushed vine. When by children, plants and animals. The oil companies do not deny the the basket is shaken underwater, extracts from the vines diffuse and the dumping occurred and do not deny it was intentional. Litigation is fish absorb it through their gills. The extracts weaken the fish, causing ongoing to determine if they should clean up the mess. them to float to the top; they are then picked off the surface of the water. The Achuar are not a part of this lawsuit and do not care who wins. The Hunting involves walking for hours with an eight-foot long blowgun Achuar just ask that the same thing does not happen to their land. They on their shoulders; the darts are made from palm fronds. Their favorite love their children and want to protect them. This is why they are afraid. game to hunt is the peccary, a large hog that inhabits the jungle. The Is their fear justified? Yes. If the past portends the future, at peccary puts out one of the strongest odors of any animal on earth. some point they will be driven off their land by oil pollution or the The Achuar follow the peccary by tracks and smell. The darts they use Ecuadorean government. In the past, when indigenous people of the are thinner than a pencil lead and penetrate only an inch or two. It is the Amazon have resisted the dictates of South American politicians they curare at the tip of the dart that brings the 60-to-80 pound animal down. have been killed, en masse if necessary. The last question I always asked my Achuar hosts was, “Do you have any questions for me?” The answer One of my visits was to a shaman at his complex of huts where was the same from all: “Will you help us tell the world what a wonderful his entire family lives. I am a physician and was interested in the place we live in and will you please help us stop the oil companies?” medicines he used to treat his patients. Some of the drugs found on I said I would. pharmacy shelves in the United States have come from plant sources. In fact, even curare that is placed at the end of the Achuar’s darts to Stephen Wallace ’00 (JD) has degrees in pharmacy, medicine and law.
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Save a 204-year-old financial icon Step two: Bow out gracefully by Shawn Tully photography by Jonathan Fickies/Bloomberg
he day Liam McGee took charge at Hartford Financial against stiff odds, in financial services,” says Marc Feigen, Services Group — Oct. 1, 2009 — he was facing one a consultant who has counseled many prominent CEOs and of the toughest rescue operations in the annals of the who advised McGee on how to address thorny management financial crisis. The job was to save a venerable institu- issues in his first months at the helm. Ttion that was then just a year from its 200th anniversary. On June 9, McGee’s remarkable tenure ended unexpect- The Hartford had helped finance the Golden Gate Bridge edly when he announced his resignation as CEO and and the Hoover Dam; it had contracted to pay benefits to president. Babe Ruth if the Sultan of Swat were sidelined by illness. McGee, who will continue on as chairman until the annual It was a history reflected in the company’s baronial lobby — shareholder’s meeting next spring, says he chose to depart the one that McGee often walked past to reach the CEO his main management role early, at the age of 59, due to a suite. There on the wall was a framed homeowner’s policy medical condition. In January 2013, The Hartford announced that the company had issued to Abraham Lincoln in 1861. that McGee had surgery for the removal of a brain tumor The annual premium? A prodigious $24. found during a routine checkup, and that he was cancer- On McGee’s arrival, The Hartford itself was in danger of free. But McGee, who before joining The Hartford was becoming a fusty heirloom. Just four months earlier, it had president of global consumer and small business banking been on the brink of demise, surviving only after taking a at Bank of America, recently underwent a second procedure. $3.4 billion bailout from the Troubled Asset Relief Program. He declines to discuss the details, but it’s clear that the The company was reeling from a loss of $2.7 billion in 2008. follow-up treatments are tiring. “Sure, part of it was health,” Its stock price had cratered 75 percent from its 2007 peak. McGee told Fortune in a phone interview the day of the And it was stuck with paying its customers far more return announcement. “But it’s also because the financial turn- on their annuities than its tattered investment portfolio, around was largely complete. These years have been an packed with toxic real estate securities, could earn. adrenalin rush for me.” Over the next nearly five years, McGee repaid TARP, The new CEO is McGee’s first major hire Christopher rebuilt the gutted balance sheet, and reconfigured its Swift, 53, a former accountant and top executive at rival investment portfolio. That allowed the company to concen- AIG. Swift, unlike ex-banker McGee, has spent his career trate on what it had — for numerous decades at least — in this arcane field. done very well: writing steady, highly profitable policies for He revels in its complexities, and is an expert on risk and America’s storefront bakeries, dentists’ offices, and other capital management. McGee, for his part, prides himself businesses. Now, earnings are running at around $2 billion on the team-building effort that enabled the board to a year and trending toward the mid-2000s peak. “It was one choose an internal candidate. “I focused on succession of the least-heralded but most outs tanding turnarounds, from day one,” he says. “It’s the CEO’s most important job.”
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he untold story of McGee’s stewardship is the cultural T transformation at one of America’s oldest and, at one point, stodgiest of enterprises. Son of an Irish immigrant bus driver, McGee rose to stardom at Bank of Ameri- ca. His last job there entailed run- ning the bank’s more than 5,000 branches, then the largest network in the nation. An expert on the intricacies of insurance McGee was not, and learning them wasn’t his goal. His mission, rather, was to surmount a crisis — and that would require radical change in The Hartford’s culture. The old guard, McGee says, took every opportunity to warn him that insurance was one arena where rapid innovation wouldn’t work — and that if he knew enough about the industry, he’d realize that. The top objective for these managers was a laudable one, certainly — managing risk. But they took this aim to such extreme that growth froze as a result. Executives frequently criti- cized any decision aimed at major change as “too risky,” according to McGee and other insiders who witnessed the interactions first- hand. Another obstructionist strategy was to keep calling for more data and endless analysis, until the initiative faded from view. McGee captured The Hartford ethos with a catchphrase — “It takes the time it takes.” Coupled with this inertial sensibility was a process for decision-making that made it all but certain nothing would change. Frequently, it wasn’t even clear who had the authority to make a decision. Just about anyone in the chain of com- mand who objected had the veto power to kill a daring idea. “They’d have endless conversations around data,” says McGee. “These were smart people, who knew the facts, but couldn’t make a decision.” The employees characterized the process as “the polls never close,” meaning once a decision seemed to be made, it could be changed by more “voting,” or discussion.
22 USD MAGAZINE Nor was there much incentive in 2000, The Hartford strayed from its lars shrank when translated into issued at such low prices that, if the management ranks to fix what core, routine-but-reliable property yen, so that it fell far short of the exercised, could cause lots of was broken. Managers expected, and casualty field into glamorous payments guaranteed to Japa- dilution. In early 2012, he reached and enjoyed, extremely long annuity products that guaranteed nese investors. an agreement with Allianz SE that careers at The Hartford, a longevity investors high rates of return. The Here, McGee faced an outside allowed The Hartford to buy back that, in theory, was supposed to Hartford had to pay those returns force for change — and not exactly the warrants for $2.4 billion. instill sage leadership. “Insurance whether the securities backing the change he wanted: an activist Around the same time, McGee places more value on tenure than these annuities (and hence funding who had accumulated 8.5 percent announced a pullback in The Hart- anywhere else in financial servic- the payments) rose or declined. of The Hartford’s shares. In Febru- ford’s annuities business: allowing es,” says McGee. “There’s this natu- And for a time, the strategy ary of 2012, hedge fund Paulson & the portfolio to “runoff” (meaning ral reticence that anyone without appeared to work brilliantly. Finan- Co, headed by billionaire John that the insurer would service and 25 years of experience can do any- cial advisors loved the guaranteed Paulson, demanded that McGee pay benefits for existing annuity thing major. I kept asking, ‘Why annual returns of 7 percent or so, split the insurer into two parts, and holders), but ending the sale of can’t we do it?’ and the response and The Hartford found the high spin off property and casualty as a new products. Managers have was, ‘Well, you don’t understand.’” fees intoxicating. During the boom single, standalone enterprise. actually nicknamed the ongoing McGee fought the inertia. He’d years, its guaranteed products were McGee and Swift were already pur- annuities program the “Talcott ask his lieutenants, “Who has the a sensation, growing to a portfolio suing a plan to largely return to Resolution,” after the hill (“Talcott ‘D?’” meaning the power to decide. of $65 billion in the U.S. The com- Hartford’s roots by leaving a num- Mountain”) that stands between When no one seemed to know, pany also took the concept to ber of non-core businesses. But The Hartford’s headquarters in he’d pick out an executive and Japan, where the book of business they wanted the restructured com- Hartford, Conn., and the office command, “Now you have the ‘D.’” mushroomed to $35 billion. pany to stand on three legs: P&C, managing annuities and invest- “If I’d listened to the folks who The crash exposed the cracks in mutual funds, and “group” plans. ment portfolios. “I’m going over were part of the past,” he says, the once best-selling products. The McGee engaged in lengthy the mountain,” is a frequent “I would have found myriad rea- obligation to pay its annuity hold- talks with Paulson. “We looked at expression among managers shut- sons not to make big changes. ers high returns, while its own the scenario he suggested, and tling between the offices. I could have talked myself out of investments were plummeting, looked at it again,” says McGee. McGee and Swift also managed it one thousand times.” spawned big losses. The losses, in “But I told him that the regulators to hedge, and eventually elimi- Over the first two years, McGee turn, prompted regulators to would never approve his basic nate, most of the risk on the ultra- gradually replaced virtually the require that the insurer raise far proposition, that the deal would volatile Japanese book of business. entire top management with out- more capital to ensure that it could require transferring too much And in April of 2014, McGee signed side hires, as well as a few high- meet its obligations to customers. debt from the P&C company to an agreement to sell the Japanese potential managers from the ranks. The TARP bailout provided only the life insurance business.” annuities portfolio to ORIX Corp of The arrival of Swift in early 2010 temporary salvation. Compound- McGee did, however, move in Japan for $895 million. helped McGee develop, and sell, ing the woes were large holdings the direction Paulson wanted. In “That portfolio will be perma- his strategy. “I’d sized the capital of securities backed by commercial 2012, he sold in rapid succession nently off the balance sheet and needs, and I thought the percep- real estate as well as bonds in trou- the brokerage arm to AIG, the eliminate most of the risk that tion was more fire than the reality,” bled regional banks. “Our dual individual life insurance unit to investors perceive as overhanging says Swift. “We had lots of value in threats were variable annuities, Prudential, and the 401(k) retire- the company,” McGee says. businesses that needed love and and structured products like CMBS ment franchise to MassMutual, Marc Feigen, the CEO advisor attention.” When McGee would [commercial mortgage-backed allowing The Hartford to add $1.5 who remembers the dark days, ask, “Why can’t we do this?” — and securities],” recalls McGee. “The billion in capital. Though the thinks an addition to The Hart- the traditionalists would reel off annuities in the U.S. were well divestitures didn’t fully satisfy ford’s insurance museum, featur- reasons not to — Swift would underwritten, but they were far Paulson, the pressure abated. The ing not just the Lincoln policy but summon his mastery of insurance too big for the balance sheet.” day after McGee announced his antique fire engines, is appropri- to explain why the boss’s plan was An even bigger danger, he retirement, Paulson & Co issued a ate. “They should commission a both practical, and essential. says, was the annuity business in statement, saying that “Liam portrait of Liam McGee as the “Employees were shocked that we Japan. “The foreign exchange risk McGee has led a generational man who saved this 204-year-old took action,” says McGee, “they was the main source of volatility,” transformation of Hartford, posi- institution,” says Feigen. The old expected Chris and me to change says McGee. The portfolio was not tioning it to prosper by focusing Hartford thought it was immortal, our minds, to follow the old prac- hedged at all when the products on operations with industry-lead- a dangerous thing. Liam McGee tice of announcing something were sold, and most of the annui- ing positions.” got the company to see its poten- and not doing it.” ties were issued when the yen McGee also took measures to tial demise with clear eyes — and was trading at around 115 to the substantially lower expensive then gave it a second life. he business that almost sank dollar. The yen later rose to trade debt. Just before the TARP bail- The Hartford, and threatened between 60 and 70 to the dollar. out, The Hartford had sold war- Liam McGee ’76 is former chairman T to render it an unsteady enter- The strengthening in the Japa- rants to Allianz to bolster its capi- of USD’s board of trustees. From prise for years to come, was vari- nese currency meant that the tal. Those warrants had a coupon Fortune Magazine, June 13 © 2014 able annuities. Starting around income from investments in dol- of 10 percent a year and were Time Inc. Used under License.
FALL 2014 23 USD’s sixth annual Wine Classic ALUMNI NEWS was officially the event’s most successful to date, raising more than $67,000 for the Alumni Endowed Scholarship Fund.
[cheers] RED AND WHITE AND FUN ALL OVER USD’s annual Wine Classic benefits student scholars
he 2014 USD Wine Classic 1 raised more than $67,000 T for student scholarships. Established in 2009 by the Alumni Association Board of Directors, the wildly successful event was once again a sell-out. Held on a gorgeous day in mid-July at the Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice’s Garden of the Sea, the sixth annual event featured more than 30 USD family wineries — owned or managed by alumni, parents and friends of the university — gourmet food stations, live music and a silent auction featuring wine-related items. All proceeds benefit the Alumni Endowed Scholar- ship Fund. “The Wine Classic has truly become a signature event for USD and for the San Diego community. Everyone has a great time, enjoys the wine tasting and knows that their ticket purchase helps raise scholarship funds for our very 2 3 deserving students at USD,” said Charles Bass, senior direc- tor of USD Alumni Relations. Dates for the 2015 USD Wine Classic weekend are now avail- able. The Vintners Dinner at La Gran Terraza will be held on Saturday, July 18. The seventh annual USD Wine Classic is Sunday, July 19. Tickets are expected to go on sale in April. BY LAUREN RADACK LAUREN BY To learn more, please go online
to www.usdwineclassic.com. PHOTOS
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A festive afternoon in the sun, fine wine and good company were the watchwords of the 2014 Wine Classic. Pictured at the event: 1) Ariel Orodenker; 2) Sheri Matthews ’03 and Jason Kimmel ’04; 3) Alumni Association Board President Mark Hoekstra ’86, USD President Mary Lyons, Trustee Ann Navarra and Alumni Relations Director Charles Bass; 4) Leo Tubbs, Nina Tubbs, Robert Blodgett ’87, Celeste Blodgett ’86, JoAnn Cady and Steve Cady; 5) Dominic Pera ’15, Rich Yousko ’87 and Angelo Pera ’87; 6) Victoria McGuire ’85, Michael McGuire ’84, Julie Power and Trustee Jamey Power ’85; 7) John Maguire ’85, Francesca Castagnola ’91 and Andres Melgar ’02; 8) Jessica Force and Dane Gaffney ’09; 9) Chloe Lingle ’15.
FALL 2014 25
NOTES
[leviathan] THE OCEAN, SO BLUE Shark conservation is paramount for alumna
TORERO by Andrew Faught ill Hepp’s love affair with At first, the Gulf of Mexico oceans with the Pew Charitable sharks began in the crys- didn’t reveal its mysterious Trusts, the nonprofit known Jtalline waters of Belize. denizens. Then, in the dis- in part for its environmental There, less than a year removed tance, massive brown forms initiatives. “As they get closer, from USD — and in the midst began to take shape. it’s like they’re moving in slow of a Peace Corps stint — she “When you first see them, motion. They hang there and was offered a chance to dive it’s like ghosts coming out of look at you. They’re just beauti- with scientists researching the deep blue,” says Hepp, a ful creatures.”
TORERO NOTES the elusive whale shark. senior officer of international By day’s end, scientists count-
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for new laws dictating how the that is cute and cuddly, but a little animals are fished. bit of education goes a long way. Hepp is now senior officer People generally understand the of international oceans, a role idea of a food chain and that in which she not only supports there’s a reason things are in an sharks, but the management ocean ecosystem.” of all aspects of world oceans. Hepp has always had an affinity The statistics tell the story: for water environments: growing Of the world’s 465 shark species, up in Ohio, she sailed every week- 141 species are “threatened” or end with her father at Grand Lake “near-threatened” with extinc- St. Marys State Park. Before join- tion, according to Pew. Further, ing Pew, she researched interna- some species have declined by tional fisheries management as much as 98 percent in the past and wildlife trade for TRAFFIC, 15 years, as increased demand an organization that works to for shark fin soup has depleted ensure that trade in wild plants those populations. Each year, and animals isn’t a threat to the more than 100 million sharks are conservation of nature. killed for their fins, Hepp says. Few countries have laws That can pose big trouble for protecting sharks, but there ocean ecosystems, which rely on are signs of change. The Chinese apex predators, such as sharks, government recently banned the to keep marine life in balance. consumption of shark fin soup by “What sharks and other top government officials at official predators do in ecosystems is banquets, “which sends a really exert what ecologists call top- strong message that shark popu- down regulation of a communi- lations are in trouble,” Hepp says. ty,” Kaufmann says. “When you In May, the British Virgin start to mess with the controls, Islands became the 10th country you destabilize the ecosystem to make its waters safe for and get much more variability sharks by banning commercial than would be normal.” fishing of all shark species. The Sharks are credited with United States adopted the Shark keeping ocean fish stocks Conservation Act of 2010, which healthy by preying on sick fish, requires all caught sharks to be which can prevent the spread brought to shore with their fins of disease and unstable fish “naturally attached.” (“Given all populations. Failure to control of the scientific and research ABERNATHY
JIM the food chain can also cause capacity within the U.S., it could the ocean to become overrun do a lot more,” Hepp laments). ed as many as 15 whale sharks that “Jill was very inquisitive and with algae, scientists say. Algae In perhaps the biggest boost had come to feed on dog snapper engaged in what she was doing,” blooms can sicken animals and for shark conservation, in 2013 spawn. The species is the world’s recalls Ron Kaufmann, her advi- humans alike. the Convention on International largest fish and can reach 41 feet sor and an associate professor of “With all of the changes that Trade in Endangered Species in length and weigh up to 47,000 marine science and environmental are facing oceans — between of Wild Fauna and Flora agreed pounds. It is considered “vulnera- studies. “She really wanted to go pollution, climate change and to increase protections for five ble” on the International Union for out and do something with her acidification — protecting commercially exploited species the Conservation of Nature’s Red degree that would make a posi- sharks is something that can of sharks. List of Threatened Species. tive impact on the world.” be done now, and it can be “Five to 10 years ago, it was the For Hepp (pictured at right), She’s done just that. In 2009, done relatively easily,” says Wild West,” Hepp says. “You could the experience helped solidify Hepp joined Pew, where she Hepp, who holds a master’s take whatever you could, and her commitment to international led the global shark conserva- in conservation biology and there were no laws, generally.” wildlife conservation, an inter- tion program for four years and sustainable development from Hepp, though, is no ordinary est she began cultivating at helped to create a shark sanctu- the University of Maryland. sheriff. And for that, the sharks USD. As an undergraduate ary in the Maldives in 2010. “We have faced a bit of a PR owe her their thanks. biology major, she did a study She also attends international problem in terms of getting abroad stint in Baja California, meetings to promote shark people to care,” she adds. “It’s To learn more, go online to and earned her BA in 2000. conservation and advocate often easier to care for something www.pewenvironment.org.
FALL 2014 27 and she is fluent in English, Spanish [1974] ELIZABETH THOMPSON (JD) 1960s and French, and has social fluency in TERENCE JESMORE (BA) is semi- relocated to Kauai’s north shore in German, Russian and Italian. “I believe retired and has been living in Israel the Hawaiian islands and remains [1961] the strong education that I received at since 2001. He lives one hour south available for umpire, arbitrator and MARY DUGAN (BA) celebrated USD was a key foundation in my suc- of Jerusalem, where he is involved in mediator appointments in complex one year as a grant writer at College cess in opening 16 markets for A-dec in organic farming and growing plants commercial and tort matters. & Community Fellowship, which sup- 16 Central and Eastern European coun- from the Bible as row crops. ports formerly incarcerated women tries. Today, all of those markets are [1978] in attending college, achieving de- among the top producers for A-dec.” KATHLEEN STRICKLAND (JD), JANICE F. MULLIGAN (BA, JD grees and developing leadership a partner with Ropers Majeski Kohn ’81) was appointed to the State Bar skills. Since 2000, women benefiting [1969] & Bentley PC, was named to BTI Con- of California’s Judicial Nominees from the program have earned 256 GARY LANE (JD) is a registered sulting Group Inc.’s Client Service Evaluation Commission. degrees, including one PhD, one JD representative with New York Life, All-Stars list. and 69 master’s degrees. specializing in life insurance for [1979] business and personal needs, as [1975] ADRIENNE LEONARD (JD) is MARY JANE TIERNAN (BA, MA well as long-term-care insurance SUSAN REDELINGS (BA) reports senior counsel at TW Telecom in ’72) represents the San Diego and other financial planning needs. that she is retired and living as a Denver. She has been in-house Alumnnae/i of the Sacred Heart on tourist in her own beautiful city of with the company since 2001. the USD Alumni Board and teaches San Diego. part time at the College of English Language in San Diego. 1970s [1976] DAWN CONWAY (Paralegal Certifi- 1980s [1963] [1970] cate) was promoted in July 2013 to ALMA (LUJAN) LYON (BA) is PEGGY BENGS (BA) writes for chief operating officer for Cision U.S., [1980] president of the Temecula Valley newspapers and magazines and is based in Chicago. NICK KRALL (BA) has been “doing Wine Society. researching book concepts related to financial plans, riding my horses, inspiring episodes in American history. GORDON L. GERSON (JD), man- and acting in TV and movies.” [1964] aging principal of Gerson Law Firm Recently, he has appeared in DELLE WILLETT (BA) is co-chair, MICHAEL MILLER (BA) retired APC, was honored among The Best Revenge, True Blood and Masters with Maureen Pecht, of the 50th as a sergeant after 33 years with the Lawyers in America 2014 in the area of Sex. Nick also sings doo-wop with anniversary celebration for the San Diego Police Department. At his of real estate law. the Safaris and plays country-blues College for Women’s Class of 1964. retirement, Mike was the staff ser- with L.A. River. Other committee members include geant at the Regional Law Enforce- [1977] Patty Murphy, Vivienne Magnus, ment Academy, where he helped STEPHEN LEGOMSKY (JD) MARK PARKER (JD) is president- Cecilia Moreno, Vicki Strassler, forge the futures of more than 1,500 recently completed a two-year term elect of the State Bar of Montana Cathy Lindseth and Mary Fipp. recruits from area agencies. Mike was as chief counsel of U.S. Citizenship and is scheduled to assume the the second officer to attend the and Immigration Services (USCIS) duties of president of the State Bar [1965] Department of the Navy Drug and within the Department of Homeland in September 2014. He will be the ALCY (BOSS) NEIDLINGER (BA) Alcohol Counselor Program. He still Security. At USCIS, Stephen worked second USD School of Law graduate writes: “I have been doing a lot of volunteers with the SDPD, and he closely with the White House on to serve as president of the Montana photography since I moved to Texas. and his wife, former USD staff mem- comprehensive immigration reform, State Bar; the first was Max Hansen, You can see some of it on my Face- ber Liz Aleman, donate their time to the Deferred Action for Childhood a 1976 USD law school graduate book page. Looking forward to the the Retired Fire and Police Associa- Arrivals program, the agency imple- who was president in 1988. 50th in 2015.” tion. Mike and Liz have three grown mentation of the Supreme Court children and two granddaughters. decision striking down the Defense [1981] [1966] of Marriage Act, and the parole in TOMMY LOFARELLI (MBA, JD MARIA TERESA (CARRASCO) [1972] place program for undocumented ’81) is looking for work in the real PIETROK (BA) retired on March 30, JOHN HEISNER (JD) partnered family members of military personnel. estate industry, a law office, or as 2013, from her career in international with Olga Álvarez to open Heisner He has returned to his position as an assistant professor of marketing, marketing, which included 11 years Álvarez, a San Diego law firm focused the John S. Lehmann University finance or real estate. with ESCO Corp. and nearly 30 years exclusively on trusts, estates and Professor at Washington University’s with A-dec Inc., one of the largest business law. School of Law in St. Louis, Mo., and JAMES POOLE (JD) was appointed dental equipment manufacturers in the he is working on the sixth edition an expert witness by Thomson world. While at A-dec, Teresa opened [1973] of his immigration and refugee law Reuters in subjects including chemistry and developed markets in 16 former DALE ANDERSEN (MA) writes, casebook, which has been adopted and the petroleum industry. Soviet countries after the fall of the “My one-act play, The Hundred at 176 law schools. USSR. She also introduced new con- Million Dollar Son, was a semifinalist JEFFREY THOMA (JD) was cepts to professionals in the region, at the 2014 O’Neill National Play- MARK LITWAK (JD) joined the appointed visiting professor at the including infection control, ergonom- wrights Conference.” University of Southern California’s University of Hawaii School of Law. ics, practice management and clinic or- Gould School of Law as an adjunct ganization. In 2008, the Russian Dental PAUL ROBINSON (JD) of Hecht professor. [1982] Association’s Congress in Moscow Solberg Robinson Goldberg and DAVID BAJO (BA) expects to awarded Teresa a life achievement Bagley LLP was named San Diego JOEL S. MILIBAND (JD) was publish his third novel, Mercy 6, medal for her contribution to Russian Lawyer of the Year in land use and appointed general counsel and in September 2014. He has authored dentistry. At USD, Teresa studied Ger- zoning law by The Best Lawyers chief legal officer of Brown Rudnick Panopticon and The 351 Books man, English and Spanish literature, in America 2014. LLP in Irvine, Calif. of Irma Arcuri and is a professor of
28 USD MAGAZINE creative writing at the University KELLEY HILL (BBA) is property of South Carolina. manager for S.A. Hill Enterprises.
ROBERT EATINGER (JD) was JOHN KOWNACKI (BA) reports named the senior deputy general that he is a Lasik eye surgeon. counsel for the U.S. Central Intelli- gence Agency in June 2013. He has FRANCES FRAGOS TOWNSEND served as acting general counsel (JD) was named to the board of for the CIA between general counsel directors of Freeport-McMoRan appointments. Copper & Gold Inc.
[1983] [1987] KAREN CAMPBELL is semiretired ALLAN E. ANDERSON (JD) joined from a career in law to a career Argent Fox LLP as a litigation and in legal editing. Her website is intellectual property partner in www.intlproofingconsortium.com. Los Angeles.
JENNIFER TREESE WILSON (BA, RUSSELL McCORMACK (BA) JD ’86) was appointed corporate recently started a private practice counsel for the Gemological Insti- called Nazarene Ministries. His web- tute of America in San Diego. site is www.nazareneministries.com. OF THE CINCINNATI BENGALS CORPORATION BENGALS CINCINNATI THE OF
[1984] GWEN RUTAR MULLINS (JD) of
NANCY CAMPMAN (BA) joined Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC COURTESY Irma Shaw Designs as the director was honored among The Best Law- of business development. She rep- yers in America 2014. QUARTERBACKS’ COACH KEN ZAMPESE ‘88 resents the interior design firm through active involvement in local [1988] knows exactly what he seeks in a football and building associations, and cul- GEORGE GALDORISI (MA) is player: “I’m looking for physical and mental tivates new business from architects, working with co-author Dick home builders and developers. Couch to reboot the Tom Clancy toughness; I want the guy who’s not afraid Op-Center series. The first Op- to throw the first punch in the fight and take BARBARA E. KRISTAL (JD), Center series was published from a few on the chin,” he says. a family law attorney, was named 1995 to 2005. In May 2014, Saint a top lawyer by Palm Springs Life Martin’s Press published the first His philosophies on what it takes to succeed magazine in the Coachella Valley. book of Galdorisi’s and Couch’s in today’s NFL are born of his own hard-nosed new series: Tom Clancy’s Op-Center: MARIA ELENA RICO (BA, MEd Out of the Ashes. The second book, playing style. As an undersized wide receiver ’87) is principal of Bancroft Middle Into the Fire, is in production. More during his days at USD, Zampese had to fight School & Performing Arts Magnet. information is available at www. georgegaldorisi.com. for playing time from day one. “Nobody likes [1985] small, slow guys, so I had to bring more to the REBEKAH CAREY (MSN) graduat- PAUL KLOCKENBRINK (JD), a table,” he recalls. “I felt like I was able to pick ed from the University of Alabama partner at Gentry Locke Rakes & with a Doctor of Nursing Practice Moore LLP, was named to the up the offensive scheme quickly, and that went degree in December 2013. She pre- 2014 Best Lawyers in America list a long way in getting me on the field when sented the results of her doctoral by U.S. News & World Report and study, “Shoes, Shots and Society: Best Lawyers. I was at USD.” Prepare for Short-Term Service Over- Now entering his 12th year with the Bengals, seas,” at the International Conference JEFF TIPTON (BA) recently cele- of Person-Centered Medicine in brated his 14th year in real estate. Zampese has worked with talented signal- Zagreb, Croatia, in November 2013. He is the broker-owner of Tipton callers like Carson Palmer, John Kitna and Rebekah is an assistant professor of Group Real Estate. current Bengals QB Andy Dalton during his nursing and chair of the School of Nursing at Wisconsin Lutheran [1989] tenure, and he’s eager to see just how far College in Milwaukee, Wis. LANCE L. SHEA (JD) joined Dalton can progress in his fourth year as a Baker Hostetler in Washington, D.C., SUSAN DALY (JD) of Hecht Sol- as a partner. starter. “Andy had a tough go in the playoffs berg Robinson Goldberg and Bagley last year, and he’s really been working hard LLP was honored among The Best Lawyers in America 2014 in real in the off season,” Zampese says. “I think he’s estate law. 1990s going to come out swinging this year.” Which — if you consider considering who he’s EARL M. FORTE (JD) published [1990] The Fraudulent Transfer Handbook TOM DAVIS (BA) and his wife re- taking his cues from — should come as no surprise. in 2013. cently celebrated their 20th anniver-
[reunion reminder] FALL 2014 29 sary with a Mediterranean cruise, fol- ny’s corporate finance and account- JULIE HOUSTON (JD) joined the welcomed their third child, Lucy, lowed by a trip to Florence and ing functions, manages the compa- public finance practice of Andrews in December 2013. Lucy joins Max- Rome, where they saw the pope. ny’s relationships with investors Kurth LLP in Austin, Texas, as counsel. well, 4, and Bridget, 3. Elisabeth and partners, and conducts internal and Scott are busy running their ANNE DEMETRIO (BA) has a and industry analysis to support CHRISTINE (HARBS) MAILLOUX engineering company, which was recruitment company based in the company’s goals for growth. (JD) is a student in USD’s master’s named one of the Top 25 Business- Phoenix, Ariz. “I enjoy spending time program in nonprofit leadership es in Kansas City with fewer than with my three children (Jack, Kate PATRICK FOY (BA) is a lieutenant and management and she contin- 25 employees. and George), who are already talking with the Law Enforcement Division ues to practice telecommunications about attending USD!” she says. of the California Department of regulatory and consumer law with SEAN FLANNERY (BBA) is global Fish and Wildlife. The Utility Reform Network (TURN). pricing manager for Texas Instru- [1991] She also serves on the boards of ments. Wife Jodie (Dawson) Flan- DAVID KLISTOFF (MBA) is a LAURA (GACEK) GRAHAM two other nonprofit organizations. nery ’96 is a marketing manager for longtime consulting manager (BA) married David Graham on Christine, her husband, Jim Mail- a security technologies company with Accenture. April 27, 2014. loux ’94, and two daughters live and she teaches fitness classes at in San Diego. Dallas corporate facilities and fit- MARY LEHMAN (JD) was appoint- KELLIE LOGSDON (BA) recently ness clubs. Sean and Jodie have a ed to the California State Athletic moved back to Los Angeles with KURT TOBIN (JD) joined Ogletree, son, Jack, who was born in 2007. Commission by California Gov. her two daughters, ages 11 and 14, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart PC “Jack is following in his dad’s love Jerry Brown. after eight years in Connecticut. as a shareholder in San Diego. of basketball; maybe a future USD “We are so happy to be back to the Torero hoopster!” Jodie says. ADAM LEVIN (JD), a partner in Southern California sunshine and [1994] the Los Angeles office of Mitchell our family,” she says. Kellie is a real JAMES GRIFFIN (JD) was ap- CAPT. GARY SHARP (JD), U.S. Silberberg & Knupp, was named estate agent with Coldwell Banker, pointed to the Pima County Superior Navy JAG Corps, is commanding to The Hollywood Reporter’s 2014 where she specializes in residential Court by Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer. officer for the Region Legal Service Power Lawyers list. and multifamily sales as well as Office Southeast in Jacksonville, Fla. property development and man- MELISSA HENSLEY (JD) was [1992] agement. Her niece, Ryann Linthi- named 2014 chairwoman of the MONICA ZENT (JD) founded Fox- KARIN BACKSTROM (JD) writes, cum, is a student at USD. Board of Trustees for the Dallas wordy.com, a private social network “I am busy running the employment Children’s Advocacy Center. Melissa for lawyers. law firm of Backstrom & Heinrichs. ANDREW B. SERWIN (JD) joined is senior counsel in Morgan Lewis’s I also have three daughters, ages 14, the law firm Morrison & Foerster Labor and Employment Practice. [1997] 11 and 8.” Karin lives in the Bay Park as partner. The mission of the Dallas Children’s LARRY BALDWIN (MBA) and his area of San Diego and she has Advocacy Center is to improve the wife, Melissa, adopted Benjamin served on the USD Law Alumni ANNE YOAKAM is raising her lives of abused children in Dallas Lilu from the Shejiang province of Board since 2008. daughter, writing The Daily Tuna County and to provide national China in January 2014. Benjamin and anneyoakam.blogspot.com, leadership on child abuse issues. joins siblings Landen, Isaac, Emma EVANGELINE (FERNANDEZ) painting landscapes on Nantucket, and Madeleine. Larry is the director BITSKO (MFA) reports that she Mass., and “thinking about starting [1995] of Medicare membership adminis- established and coordinates the JCS a new breadwinning career pronto; VINCENT MOISO (BA) reports tration at Kaiser Permanente. San Diego Academy of Performing ideas welcome!” that after 16 years as an international Arts after working for 20 years as a business executive in the tile and WARD BOND (MBA) joined teacher and administrator, as well as [1993] stone industry, he spent most of Defense Mobile Corp. in December theater actress, director and educa- KURT CAMPBELL (JD) was hon- 2013 working in athletics for the 2013 as a vice president and the tor in public and nonprofit theater ored in the 2013 San Diego Super University of Notre Dame. He has head of value-added services. education. The academy serves stu- Lawyers publication for his work returned to his original firm to Defense Mobile Corp. is a new dents in grades six through 12 and is in construction litigation. manage business development. mobile carrier for military service housed in the San Diego Performing members, veterans and their families. Arts Center. Evangeline and her hus- DAWN R. EISENBERG (LLM) KEVIN PAPP (BA) joined Aegon band, Bruce, celebrated their 20th was named director of San Diego USA Realty Advisors in Cedar LISA BERESFORD BRIDGMAN wedding anniversary on Sept. 11, State University’s Corky McMillin Rapids, Iowa, as a senior attorney. (BBA, JD ’01) was named partner at 2013. Their daughter, Alexa, is ma- Center for Real Estate. Previously, he was a shareholder her law firm, Grimm Vranjes & Greer. joring in English literature and mi- with Bradley & Riley PC. noring in art at Pace University in BRENT HODGES (BAcc) returned CHAD FULLER (JD) joined Trout- New York City, and their son, Jared, to San Diego after raising his son INGE TAYLOR (BSN) reports that man Sanders LLP as a partner in is a musical theater aficionado. and living in Arizona for 18 years. she is working two careers: nurse San Diego. Evangeline plans to complete doc- He was head of schools for Rancho midwife and clinical instructor. toral studies in drama and theater Solano Private Schools in Arizona WADE GOCHNOUR (JD), with so she can teach and direct at the and is now a principal at Horizon [1996] Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC, university level. Prep, a private school in Rancho MICHAEL BATTIN (JD) was was honored as a 2013 Mountain Santa Fe, Calif. elected president of the Legal Aid States Super Lawyer for his work PETER COLEMAN (BBA) was Society of San Diego and voted in construction litigation. appointed chief financial officer of DAVID HOLLANDER (JD) joined a 2014 Super Lawyer. Fuhu Inc., the firm that created the DeWitt & Dunn LLC as a retirement JENNIFER LOTTA (BBA) and Nabi kid-friendly tablet. At Fuhu, income planning advisor, part of ELISABETH DeCOURSEY (BAcc) her husband, David Prull, were mar- Peter is responsible for the compa- www.AnnuityWatchUSA.com. and her husband, Scott Martens, ried on Nov. 1, 2013, at an upstate
30 USD MAGAZINE [reunion reminder] FROM TODDLER TO TORERO The things you do for others provide a lasting legacy. Your estate gift to the University of San Diego truly makes a difference. By designating a USD scholarship fund as a beneficiary in your will, living trust, insurance policy or IRA, you enhance the lives of future Toreros.
Every gift makes a difference!
Call (619) 260-4523 or go to www.sandiego.edu/plannedgiving.
FALL 2014 31
COURTESY OF G. DAVID POLLICK ‘71 POLLICK DAVID G. OF COURTESY
[letter home] CHANGEMAKING. PERSONIFIED. Dispatch to President Mary Lyons from Vilnius, Lithuania
The art of written correspondence Since leaving my last presidency emerging, hopefully democratic, founding rector, Anatoli Mikhailov, lives on. Last February, USD of Birmingham-Southern College, state. Lakashenko assumed power refused and was increasingly President Mary E. Lyons, PhD, I have been content to do other in 1994 and continues to align threatened, as were many of the received a missive that epitomized work, but a number of months himself and his country with Putin faculty. About 11 years ago, they the spirit of a true Changemaker: ago, I received a call from the in Russia. The university — being fled Belarus before it was too late CEO of the American Council dedicated to democratic princi- and reestablished themselves in Dear Mary — I received the for International Education. Life ples and the development of civil Lithuania’s capitol, Vilnius. USD Magazine today and thought hasn’t been quite the same since. societies — became a target. Vilnius is a beautiful world heri- I’d drop you a line. The European Humanities At Lakashenko’s behest, his tage city that suffered severely The theme here is about circles University (EHU) was founded in secret police (Belarus’ version of under the Nazis and the Soviets. within circles. My family is origi- Minsk 21 years ago in response to the KGB) began doing their work The Nazis, essentially decimating nally from Minsk in Belarus. the collapse of the Soviet Union and efforts were made to suppress the Jewish population of the Though I had never been there, and the need to educate the the university and redirect its cur- nation, murdered 70,000 Jews. I promised myself I’d visit one day best young Belarusian minds to riculum in line with the state’s old Since the collapse of the Soviet to get sense of my own history. assume leadership roles in this “Soviet” political position. The Union, after extraordinary displays
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of courage, Lithuania has come winery in Rochester, N.Y. Fellow DEBORAH ROMERO (MSN) is a REBECCA HAYES (BA) created, out as the strongest former USD alumni in attendance included commander in the U.S. Navy Reserves. developed and co-owned Mindful Soviet country in the EU. With Steve and Michelle Stoelker, Lo Cas- In the fall of 2014, she plans to begin Mentoring for seven years. In cio and Nicole (Borcherding) the Doctorate of Nursing Practice August 2011, she developed and the assistance of multiple state Domer. Dave is a deputy for the lo- program at USD’s Hahn School of launched e3 Consulting, a community governments, Lithuania pro- cal sheriff’s office and Jennifer is a Nursing and Health Science. hub that wholly supports a family’s vided facilities for the only financial advisor. “We live in Pitts- mind, body and soul. university in the world that is ford, N.Y., and enjoy spending time TIMOTHY L. SKELTON (JD) currently in political exile. with family and friends, and our joined Argent Fox LLP as a litigation JASON M. OHTA (JD), a former Its very survival, quite nat- German Shepherd, Trigger.” and intellectual property partner assistant U.S. attorney, joined Duane urally, faces great challenges. in Los Angeles. Morris LLP as special counsel in MATT REBACK (JD) was promoted San Diego. EHU has approximately 1,700 to vice president of marketing for [1999] hundred students, 70 per- Konami Gaming Inc. ANDREA MUNOZ (BA) is head TRASIE PHAN (BA) owns a busi- cent of which are Belarusian. counselor at Hoover High School ness management consulting firm Many must seek their educa- JENNIFER VARSAK (BA) started in San Diego. that services the healthcare industry. tion via distance learning a wine concierge service in 2013, from Belarus, while 700 are called Accasbel Wines. In Celtic JUSTINE PHILLIPS (BA, JD ’05) KYLE ROWEN (BA, JD ’04) in residence in Vilnius. legend, Accasbel is the god of wine. joined Sheppard Mullin Richter & joined Wesierski & Zurek LLP, a law Hampton LLP in San Diego as firm in Irvine, Calif. The rector is a wonderful MICHAEL VIOLA (BAcc) recently special counsel. man of extraordinary courage, founded Pure Restaurant Solutions, FABIANA SALIM (BBA) is a multi- but by his own admission, he is an accounting practice based in WAYNE SLAPPY (BBA) reports media executive at the U-T San Diego. not an administrator. It is one Irvine, Calif., that is focused on that he is “helping people get more thing to intellectually wish to restaurants. He has clients in the out of life through comprehensive AMBER SPATARO (JD) was be democratic and free, but an Los Angeles and Orange County planning.” elevated to shareholder at Littler’s altogether different thing to markets, but is always looking to Newark, N.J., office. help new customers. JEFF THURRELL (JD), partner realize this when some of your with Fisher & Phillips LLP in Irvine, [2001] faculty and students have CHRISTIAN WAAGE (JD) was Calif., was named to BTI Consulting NEAL BARHAM (BA) was commis-
‘71 grown up as citizens of the appointed senior vice president Group Inc.’s Client Service All- sioned in the U.S. Navy upon his Soviet Union. This was the and general counsel of Receptos Stars list. graduation from USD. He served reason I was contacted, initially Inc. in San Diego. nearly 13 years on active duty, to consult with them. including flying tours from fixed-
DAVID POLLICK DAVID [1998] wing cargo/transport missions in
G. Following several trips, the DARLENE BLOUNT (BA) teaches the Middle East to helicopter anti- OF rector and board from the 2000s English and is a private tutor. submarine/surface counter-drug participating nations [2000] and mountainous search and rescue
COURTESY approached me and asked if I MARY CRUZ (MBA) writes, RYAN GERENA (BA) reports that missions spanning the globe. Neal would be willing to assume “I apply the skills I developed in he is “living the dream with my has worked with myriad cultures the role of chief operations the USD MBA program every day wife, Gabby, and sons, Anthony, 4, while gaining flying experience as a officer and provost of the uni- in my role as program manager and Robbie, 2. Gabby and I run our Navy aviator. He is now a reservist versity. This, of course, meant at Hewlett-Packard.” U.S. passport expediting company and is an air interdiction agent with together and are trying to grow the U.S. Customs and Border Protec- a willingness to locate to Vilni- BRIAN MURPHY (BA) and Kellie the business for our kids to take tion, flying daily anti-illegal immi- us for as long as I occupied Hallinan ’00 were married on over one day.” gration/counter-narcotics/terrorism the position. July 27, 2013, in Cle Elum, Wash. missions along the Texas border. I permanently relocated in Alumni in the wedding party SARAH GLENN (BA) and her hus- early March, and there is a included Brendan Murphy, Craig band, Tony Glenn ’00, are raising JENNIFER BROWN (BA) and her sense in which I feel as though Waldrop, Cheli (Mueller) Hanley three daughters in Sacramento, husband, Doug, recently welcomed I am finally going home. and Angela (Hauck) Carr. Brian Calif. “I enjoy being a stay-at-home their second child, Brody Randall, works in sales for a dental implant mom and being very involved in who joins sister, Savannah, 3. Jenni- I have always been proud company in the New York City the girls’ school, our church and fer is a public information officer of my education at USD and metro area and Kellie is a school our neighborhood,” Sarah says. for the Department of Human remember fondly the honor teacher in Brooklyn. Brian and Tony is a firefighter/engineer for Services in El Paso County, Colo. of being the first Arts and Sci- Kellie live in Northport, Long Sacramento Metro Fire and he and ences Author Hughes Career Island, N.Y. Sarah are building a new house. ANTOINE DIDIENNE (MBA) Achievement Award recipient. “It is fun and exhausting at the started www.Vavavida.com, an on- In gratitude, if there is any IRENE MARIE PATTON (BA) same time!” she says. line fair trade fashion retailer. The is developing an online app for company was featured in the Sum- way in which this story can Chrometics, a unique method ALLISON GODDARD (JD) was mer 2014 issue of USD Magazine. serve USD in its good work, of learning and speaking English named a top attorney for intellec- I would be glad. that she created for teaching tual property litigation by The Daily CRESCENTIA THOMAS (BA) I wish the university contin- pronunciation and fluency at Transcript in San Diego and was joined the Stockton Unified School ued prosperity. the San Diego Community appointed to the State Bar Committee District after graduation as a teacher — G. David Pollick ‘71 College District. on Federal Courts. of students with special needs.
[reunion reminder] FALL 2014 33 She continued her education, Retirement and just celebrated her 2013. USD alumna Regina Bar- DOUGLAS FENNER (EdD) was earning an education specialist 10th year with the organization. tonicek was a bridesmaid. Tyson named a chief information officer credential and master’s degree in and Kara both work at the San for the Naval Facilities Engineering education from California State ERIK NAGEL (MA) finished his Francisco VA Medical Center. Command in September 2012. University, Sacramento. She went residency training at Naval Medical on to work on a doctorate in educa- Center, San Diego, and is now a staff [2004] JAMES C. FESSENDEN (JD) was tion administration/leadership at anesthesiologist at Naval Hospital, COURTNEY L. BAIRD (JD) was promoted to partner with Fisher & the University of the Pacific and Camp Pendleton. Erik and his wife, promoted to partner with Duane Phillips LLP in San Diego. expected to defend her disserta- Lisa, welcomed their first child, Morris LLP and is working out of the tion in May 2014. Kellan Erik, in 2013. law firm’s Las Vegas, Los Angeles MICHAEL HELLBUSCH (BA, JD and San Diego offices. ’08) joined Tredway Lumsdaine & ELLIS WASSON (LLM) joined the ANNIE PETERSEN (BA) moved Doyle LLP as an associate in the corporate, securities and tax section to Dallas in August 2013 for a new MATT DAUGHERTY (BA) and firm’s Irvine, Calif., office. of Rutan & Tucker LLP in Orange position as co-producer of two Allison Ruiz Daugherty ’04 celebrated County, Calif. hours of morning news at WFAA-TV. their eighth wedding anniversary AMANDA SCHILT (BA) is the di- Previously, she produced news at and their daughter, Cora’s, first rector of corporate communications [2002] KLAS-TV in Las Vegas. birthday in July 2014. at Ralph Lauren in New York City. OLGA ÁLVAREZ (JD) partnered with John Heisner to open Heisner BLAIN WATSON (BA) is a princi- BIBIANNE FELL (JD) joined MALLORY PREST TODD (BA) Álvarez, a San Diego law firm pal at Santa Monica High School Gomez Trial Attorneys as a senior and her husband, Matt, were focused exclusively on trusts and in Santa Monica, Calif. Previously, trial attorney in San Diego. married on Jan. 11, 2014, in Palm estates and business law. he was a principal at Locke High Desert, Calif. They both work at School, a charter high school in JILL PASQUALETTO HAMAKER Xavier College Prep, a Jesuit high ANTHONY BENJARANO (JD) Watts, Calif. “I am planning to con- (BA) reports that she is enjoying school, where Matt is the opera- was named assistant general tinue graduate studies to pursue life with her daughter, Grace tions manager and Mallory is counsel for the Los Angeles Unified a doctoral degree in educational Karen. “She keeps me and hus- a history teacher and the girls School District in the labor and leadership,” Blain says. band, Delk, on our toes,” Jill says. golf coach. employment services division. “Staying busy as a working mom ARIKA WELLS (BBA) was a 2014 on Capitol Hill as the senior man- EDWARD P. YOUNG (JD) joined PAUL BETZER (JD) joined the honoree at the Delta Sigma Theta ager of government affairs for Mike Lewis Attorneys as an associate Denver office of Snell & Wilmer, Sorority Inc. Breakfast for Mi’Lady Emergent BioSolutions.” attorney in Winston, N.C. where he focuses on energy and “Tribute to Mothers.” The event real estate law, with an emphasis honors mothers with substantial MICHELLE IALEGGIO (JD) is a [2006] on oil and gas, electrical power, community service. San Diego County deputy district JAMES BLACK (BAcc) is the alternative energy and utility attorney. owner/operator of the No. 1 ranked infrastructure. Previously, he was [2003] international hostel in San Diego. director of property tax, real estate, PATTY LEDEZMA (BBA) is SUE LESSANI (MSN) reports that right of way and claims for Phillips working in full-time ministry for she is launching a new business. BAYARDO DE MURGUIA (BA) 66 in the central and eastern the Catholic Church of the Diocese reports that he has put his theatre United States and Europe. of Orange, Calif. She is also work- DIANE LETARTE (LLM) writes, arts degree to use in Hollywood. ing toward a master’s degree in “Releasing lifers from prison. One at Since moving to Los Angeles, he has JEANMARIE HARRINGTON pastoral theology at Loyola Mary- a time. Much better with Gov. Brown worked commercially and in voice- BISCEGLIA (JD) and her husband, mount University. in office.” over in national ads for Comcast, Paul, welcomed a son, James Jack in the Box, JC Penney and Honda. Patrick. “He has been an adorable PATRICK MORRIS (JD) was MICHAEL STUART (JD) worked Theatrically, he has co-starred on new addition to our family,” Jean- promoted to partner with the San as a public defender in 2005, then Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and has marie says. Francisco office of Perkins Coie. joined a San Diego criminal de- guest starred as Agent Javier Silva on fense law firm. In 2009, he opened CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. MARISA BROWN (BA) was named TJ ROSSI (MBA) works for his own law firm in San Diego, the junior director at the Oceanside, Green Inc. where he handles criminal defense DUSTIN S. DODGIN (JD) was Calif., Yacht Club. and family law matters. Michael elected partner of Klein, DeNatale, KRISTIN (QUARTUCCIO) writes, “I remember my days on the Goldner, Cooper, Rosenlieb & Kimball TONI HOMBERG (BA) is starting SCHOPAC (BA) and her husband, USD campus as a time and place LLP, in Bakersfield, Calif. a private medical practice in Mexi- Jonathan, welcomed their third where I evolved from a student co City, Mexico. Toni is dedicated child, Ashley Nicole, on Oct. 7, 2014. to a lawyer.” SCOTT MARTINEZ (JD) was to medical research in the field of Ashley joins older brothers Dalton, 3, sworn in as Denver’s city attorney immunology and is a professor at and Brody, 2. VICTORIA VAN DER BRIEL Jan. 8, 2014. Westhill University Medical School. (Paralegal Certificate) is building SAM SHERMAN (JD) opened a strategic management consult- MARY McKENZIE (JD) teaches JOSHUA A. JESSEN (JD) was Tencer Sherman, a law firm in ing business. graduate and undergraduate courses named partner with Gibson, Dunn San Diego. in international relations at USD’s & Crutcher, working out of California [2005] College of Arts and Sciences. offices in Irvine and Palo Alto. TYSON SMITH (BA) graduated TYLER ANDREWS (JD), litigator from Golden State University with Greenberg Traurig LLP, was COURTNEY (BLOKLAND) AURORA MADUENO (BA) is the School of Law in May 2013 and elevated to partner in the Las ROBERTS (BA, MBA ’10) and activities director for Canyon Villas married his wife, Kara, in December Vegas office. her husband, Blake Roberts ’10,
34 USD MAGAZINE [reunion reminder] its president in 2012. He was director of marketing for Camp Adventure Child and Youth Ser- vice, a service-learning program supported by the Department of Defense and State Depart- ment to provide youth activities for children of U.S. military and state department families sta- tioned overseas. As well as teaching leadership and organizational behavior courses at USD, he also earned a Leadership Studies PhD in 2008 from the School of Leadership and Education Sciences. One of his greatest feats, how- ever, was his approach to failure. Early in his service career, Heinecke failed Navy Officers’ Candidate School (OCS). Though initially devastated at the news, the ever- resilient Heinecke didn’t take the setback lying down, and eventu- ally passed OCS in 1962. Over the next three decades, he proudly served his country in locations from Long Beach, Calif., to Ankara, Turkey … and just about every-
BY GREG SHED GREG BY where in between. “He taught us to be open and share our failures,” said Brittany
ILLUSTRATION Catton ’05, who took Heinecke’s class and remained close over [hail and farewell] the years. “Not only did we learn more by examining our mistakes, exactly enthralled by the idea of but by opening up, we developed being set up on a blind date by deeper bonds and connections A LIFE WELL LIVED his dad, Matt finally relented … inside and outside the classroom and a year later they were mar- with our classmates.” The many successes of Walt Heinecke ried. The couple’s infant son is Heinecke formed lasting rela- named Luke Walter Heinecke. tionships. Cynthia Villis, director by Ryan T. Blystone Walt Heinecke lived life to the of USD’s Institute of College Initia- positive outlook, both in Heinecke’s oldest son, John, to fullest — “don’t trim the sails,” tives and a fellow Rotarian, says good times and bad, is a employ one of his dad’s tried- was a favorite expression — and Heinecke co-founded the USD Agift. For nearly 75 years, and-true catch phrases. his passion for people, relation- Rotaract student club. Walter Richard Heinecke employed “I know that dad’s looking ships, leadership, education, “Walt was widely respected as this personality trait — this gift — down at all of these people gath- service to his country, community a colleague by the community on to its fullest capacity. ered here today, and he’s saying, and family was always present. and off campus,” she says. “Stu- Perhaps that’s why, when fami- ‘This is so great!’” “My father is my hero,” said dents loved him — and he loved ly and friends gathered for his Heinecke, a popular USD ad- Laura Green, Heinecke’s daughter. being with them. He introduced June 7 funeral at Heinecke’s junct professor from 2001-2013, Heinecke’s life accomplish- them to community service and beloved place of worship, Coro- had an eternally optimistic perso- ments were many. He had a dis- leadership opportunities. Walt was nado (Calif.) Christ Episcopal na that drew people from all walks tinguished 30-year career in the a gentle companion and a fierce Church, it was filled to capacity. of life. His youngest son, Matt, met United States Navy, retiring with advocate, full of empathy yet The outpouring of love and his future wife, Andrea, after Walt the rank of captain. He was a demanding of integrity. His leader- support from the hundreds in played matchmaker and politely member of the Coronado Rotary ship and friendship will be missed, attendance even prompted asked for her phone number. Not Club for 26 years and served as and always remembered.”
FALL 2014 35 the CIA, the Defense Intelligence Agency and the National Security Agency. Back then, Ibarra had dreams of joining those ranks by becoming an FBI agent. Her semester-long duties were with the National Training and Technical Assistance Partnership program, which helps train newly hired officers with law enforce- ment and other crime prevention agencies. “Assisting communities with crime prevention was a per- fect fit,” says Ibarra, who now works as a senior paralegal at an immigration law firm. Ibarra lived in an apartment in Rosslyn, Va., north of Arlington National Cemetery and directly across the Potomac River from Georgetown. Every day, she rode the Metro two stops from Rosslyn, under the Potomac to the Farragut West station in downtown D.C. From her office at 17th and K, she
OF MICHELLE IBARRA MICHELLE OF researched and helped produce brochures about public safety,
COURTESY attended manager-training confer- ences and participated in confer- [first-hand] ence calls, brainstorming sessions and roundtable discussions. When she wasn’t working, MS. DE LARA GOES TO WASHINGTON Ibarra immersed herself in every- thing D.C. had to offer, but of What USD’s first D.C. intern learned course, the news of the day was everywhere. “Thinking back during Krystn Shrieve my time in D.C., the hot topic was hen Michelle (De Lara) viding internships and academic includes work in Washington, D.C., the Kenneth Star report and Presi- Ibarra arrived in the seminars in virtually every field. where both domestic and interna- dent Clinton’s impeachment,” she Wnation’s capital, the “I was proud to represent my tional policy is made,” Norton says. recalls. “There was a lot of buzz sweltering heat registered in the university, to work for a well-known Since Ibarra’s inaugural trip, USD going on about that.” 90s. The air was heavy — not just agency and to make a difference in has sent thousands of students to Ibarra saw every branch of the with a humidity that promised rain the world,” says Ibarra, thinking the Washington Center. Aside government in action. She wit- — but also with an incessant buzz back on her experience in the fall from the 14-week semester pro- nessed the realities of politics — about a certain former White of 1998. “I loved my time in D.C.” gram, the university has expanded the negotiations, the quid pro quo. House intern. If nothing else, College of Arts and Sciences the offerings to include a nine- But what stuck with her the most things would be interesting in Dean Noelle Norton was then an week program in the summer and was a grand sense of pride. Washington, D.C. assistant faculty member in the a two-week program during the “You can’t help but feel patri- Ibarra ’99 was then a junior at political science department and January intersession. otic when you’re there,” she USD, majoring in political science served as USD’s first faculty advi- Mike Williams, chair of the politi- says. “There’s so much history. and minoring in international rela- sor for the Washington Center cal science department, says stu- I loved walking down the streets tions and sociology. She was the Program. She says it’s been an dents who went through the pro- and seeing Capitol Hill or the first student from the university to invaluable component to the gram have gone on to work at the White House. I loved knowing participate in a student program student experience. White House, as Congressional that everyone there was doing at the Washington Center, a non- “The USD educational model aides, as lawyers in the executive what they could to bring about profit organization that serves really emphasizes experiential branch, as political consultants or a change for the people of this hundreds of schools across the learning — and for political sci- political campaign managers, and country. It was inspiring. It’s nation and around the world, pro- ence majors, that very often in the intelligence community for something I’ll never forget.”
36 USD MAGAZINE welcomed their first child, Charlotte glad to have the wedding planning KENT DAVIS (BBA) earned School, received the American Med- Rose, in June 2013. behind them, Alexandra says. a paralegal certificate and real ical Association Foundation’s 2014 estate license. Leadership Award, a national award JOSEPH SAMMARTINO (JD) [2008] that recognizes achievements in founded Sammartino Law Group, SAMUEL ATRI (BBA) is working BROOKE DIXON (BBA) launched community service, medical educa- a San Diego law firm specializing in toward a master’s degree in sports her first business, Emblazon Events Inc. tion and public health. After gradu- the representation of individuals business at New York University. “We are forecasted to generate $1 mil- ating from USD, Ashley worked with and businesses in civil litigation. lion in gross sales this year on behalf AmeriCorps in an after-school pro- JOSEPH A. BROPHY (JD) was of our 20-plus clients!” Brooke says. gram for at-risk youth and coordi- LEIZEL VERGARA (BA) has elected partner in the Phoenix office nated a community health fair for traveled to Cuba, China, Egypt of the law firm Jennings, Haug & AMY FORSYTHE (MSGL) is migrant farm workers. As a medical and around Europe, interned at Cunningham LLP. assigned as a U.S. Navy public affairs student, she volunteers extensively the United Nations, worked for officer serving at the U.S. Africa in her community and serves as a the American Australian Associa- ADA CARPENTER (BA) ran the Command in Stuttgart, Germany. mentor for local youth. She also tion and New York University, Angeles marathon on March 9, conducted a qualitative study in and volunteered in Haiti and 2014, and plans to start graduate ERIC GONZALEZ (BBA) writes, Uganda. Ashley plans to attend Uni- around New York City, through school at the University of South- “Living in beautiful San Diego and versity of North Carolina, Chapel New York Cares. ern California in the fall. loving work at Qualcomm with their Hill, next year to work on a master’s RE group.” of public health degree in maternal [2007] ANGELA GONZALES (JD) and child health. JON CASTRO (BA) moved to joined the Rimon law firm as an CARLOS JAUREGUI (LLM) New York for a global banking and associate working out of the new worked in San Francisco for six ASHLEY REAGAN HALBERDA markets position at HSBC. San Diego office. months, then moved back to Mexico (JD) joined Carothers DiSante & and practiced energy law. Currently, Freudenberger LLP as an associate in GRACE GIL (BBA) was promoted WHITNEY GRAVES (BA) writes, he works in trust and agency services the Orange County, Calif., office. to learning program manager at Petco “I work at a top advertising agency at Deutsche Bank Mexico. Animal Supplies Inc. in San Diego. in New York City in media planning.” CHRISTOPHER HAYES (JD) She is in charge of all product train- KAILA MANGRUM (BA, MA ’12) joined the Small Business Investor ing across 1,300 retail stores. JEN LAGEDROST (BA) earned an has been working with the USD Alliance as legislative and regulatory MFA degree in poetry in May 2013 women’s basketball program for counsel in Washington, D.C. RACHAEL GOLDFARB (BBA) is and moved to Los Angeles. the past four years. “I served two assistant director of brands at E.J. years as the graduate assistant CAITLIN HEYDE (BAcc, BBA ’10) Gallo Winery. EVAN PAPADAKIS (BA) works and earned my master’s in leadership has been working for High Street Part- at Stillwater Family Therapy in studies,” she says. “After graduation, ners, an international payroll and ac- BRITTANY HALL (BA, BBA ’07) Manhattan Beach, Calif. I became the director of operations counting company, for nearly four is with Marriott Hotels and was pro- and am currently in my second year years. Caitlin and her husband have moted to destination sales executive ASHLEY PISANI (BA) joined of the position.” been married for two years and wel- for the Courtyard Chicago Down- Pisani Dentistry in Reno, Nev., as comed a son, Jake, in November 2013. town River North. a dental hygienist. After graduat- CHAD PAGE (BBA) started his ing from USD, Ashley earned an own financial service business in RITA MAGLIOCCO (BAcc) is a SPENCER HOLLISON (BA) works AAS degree in dental hygiene October 2009. producer for the Back9Network, a for TKF, a nonprofit organization in from New York University’s startup television channel in Hart- San Diego, and is finishing a master’s College of Dentistry. EMILY QUILTER (BA) joined a ford, Conn., that promotes growing degree in theology at Fuller Theolog- USD sunset harbor cruise mixer dur- the game of golf through the inclu- ical Seminary. FRANK SERIO (MSN) reports, ing Orientation Week in 1998, where sion of all people. The network just “Retirement is great.” she was handed an ace of playing released a short film, Inspire 2 As- JENNIFER MILLER (BBA) gradu- card and told to find her match. She pire, produced in partnership with ated from Loyola Law School and PATRICIA HARTMAN SHERRIL- found her fellow ace of diamonds, Catapult Entertainment. Through currently works as a personal injury LO (MEd) is a fifth-grade teacher Kevin McCarthy, and they began a shadow dance, the film tells the attorney for Progressive Insurance. and coordinator of the GATE (Gifted relationship that lasted for two years. life story of Sandy Cloud Jr., who and Talented Education) program. Though they parted, 12 years later worked as a caddy at a local country KATE E. PAYERLE (JD) of Robin- Kevin called Emily on Valentine’s Day club and became a lawyer, civic son Bradshaw & Hinson PA was [2009] and seven months after that, she leader and two-term state senator. named vice chair of Charlotte Cham- JOYCE CHUA (BBA) is assistant moved 2,600 miles to begin planning The film can be seen at www.back- ber Young Professionals and a North director of Torero Clubs at USD and a life together. “All thanks to USD and 9network.com/article/video-back- Carolina Rising Star in business litiga- appeared on Wheel of Fortune with a playing card,” she says. 9network-presents-catapult-enter- tion by North Carolina Super Lawyers. her sister in March 2014. tainment-performance. [2010] ALEXANDRA WILLIAMS (BA) CHRISTIAAN COETZEE (BAcc) KATELIN BUTCHER (BA) lived NICHOLAS PROLA (JD) was married Justin Williams on Sept. lives in Newport Beach, Calif., and in Lyon, France, for a year and named director of compliance and 21, 2013, in an Episcopal ceremony works on the acquisition team at returned to Northern California, in-house counsel with Professional in Santa Barbara, Calif. Following CT Realty Investors. where she teaches French to high Finance Company in Denver. a second reception in Connecticut, school students. the couple spent a two-week hon- NICOLE CUSACK (JD) was pro- RUTH SOBERANES (BA) complet- eymoon in South America. They moted to associate attorney with ASHLEY COBB (BA), a third-year ed a master’s degree in diplomacy are now back in Santa Barbara and Casey Gerry in San Diego. medical student at Mayo Medical and international relations from
FALL 2014 37 [reunion reminder] the Diplomatic School in Madrid president’s National Security Council in 2012 and recently joined the staff. Upon completing her assign- North American Research Partner- ment at the White House, Vienna ship as a research analyst and returned to her diplomatic career communications manager. at the U.S. Department of State and accepted a new position as the ADAM TYDINGCO (BBA) has Department’s hostage advisor. worked in residential real estate for the past two years and enjoys MEGHAN RYAN (BA) expected to working at Coldwell Banker graduate in May 2014 with a master’s Residential Brokerage. degree in special education at San Diego State University. LAILA VAN DER MEULEN (BA) is a tour operations manager for NICK SALMEN (BBA) recently La Jolla-based Classic Journeys, returned home from serving abroad which operates small-group, luxury, as a U.S. Peace Corps volunteer in boutique cultural walking adven- Burkina Faso, West Africa. tures in 75 regions within 35 coun- tries on five continents. DOMINICK SCIOLA (BBA) joined Avanade as a growth and [2011] strategy senior analyst. “Looking BY GREG SHED GREG BY DANIELA ATRI (BA) launched forward to the new opportunity,” Montubox.com in the fall of 2013, Dominick says. a program for kids ages 4 to 9 that
ILLUSTRATION delivers creative and education ELIZABETH SKURDAHL (BA) activities to their doorstop each is a volunteer teacher through [renowned] month. The subscription program WorldTeach in the rural village of was created for professional moms Omatjete, Namibia. She teaches RAYMOND S. BRANDES, PHD, longtime USD who might not have the liberty to go English, art and library science to professor and former dean of the graduate out and find engaging activities for grades five, six and seven. Eliza- their little ones, Daniela says. beth plans to return to the United school, died on April 16, 2014, at his home in States in 2014. San Diego. He was 90. Born in Coronado, Calif., JOSEPH BOWIE (BBA) completed a master’s degree in sports man- KAMEKA SMITH (MA) is working as a direct descendant of the founders of Old agement at the University of San on postgraduate hours to become Town, he became a pre-eminent historian in Francisco in December 2013. After a licensed professional clinical graduating, he accepted a position counselor at a large nonprofit the region. Ray entered the Army during WWII as a marketing manager with mental health clinic. and served for six years, then went on to earn TopGolf in Scottsdale, Ariz. a bachelor’s degree and a PhD in historic site [2012] MICHELLE HARRISON (BSN, GUNJAN AGARWAL (JD) joined archaeology and Western American history. MSN ’13) writes, “Since I graduated the Pittsburgh, Pa., office of Fox He joined USD in the 1960s as a professor of last May from the School of Nurs- Rothschild LLP. ing, I have been paying it forward history and archaeology and retired 31 years by teaching at the university and DIANA RODRIGUEZ AGISS later as dean of the graduate school. Ray led other local schools.” (BAcc, BBA ’12, BA ’12) reports that she is in law school. archaeological and historical research for Old XIXI LI (MAcc) has been working Town State Historic Park, the Royal Presidio for Ernst & Young in San Diego since JULIETA BARRIOS (BA) is an of San Diego and Mission San Diego de Alcalá. graduating from USD. “I couldn’t eighth-grade science teacher in have done it without my education,” Temple Hills, Md., as part of Teach He published more than 300 reports on historic Xixi says. “I am in Chicago for busi- for America Corps. San Diego buildings and 21 books, founded ness and found out about the Cubs game (an alumni relations event). ALEX BELLINI (BBA) is a financial the San Diego Congress of History, and helped What a great way to connect with planning consultant with Aurora establish the San Diego Baseball Historical alumni in the area!” Capital Alliance in San Diego and has been integral in the expansion of the Society. In 1996, he was awarded USD’s Medal MONICA LIM (BA) is in graduate firm’s premium finance consulting of San Diego de Alcalá for distinguished school at DePaul University. platform with offices in downtown service. Ray is survived by his wife of 51 years, San Diego, Los Angeles and Scotts- ANNA MORENO (BBA) recently dale, Ariz. His experience includes in- Irma Dolores Montijo, six daughters, a son, moved to New York City. ternational project management, two sisters, a brother, 10 grandchildren and new venture finance and consulting VIENNA MUNRO (JD) finished advisors on the structuring of com- three great-grandchildren. her detail to the Pentagon and plex premium finance life insurance was recommended to serve on the strategies. In addition, he founded
38 USD MAGAZINE and continues to be active in two the MSEL program and, ultimately, KARIN M. GERSTIN (JD) was pro- for 14 years, Claudine was featured in software companies. making a personal difference in moted to associate at Sughrue Mion the summer 2012 issue of USD Maga- military and veteran families’ in San Diego. zine for her work handling cases of JOSE ROSALES CHAVEZ (BA) lives,” Tony says. His work was child abuse, felony domestic violence is currently working toward a PhD in featured in the Summer 2014 issue JEANETTE GONZALEZ (MAPJ) is and elder abuse. “Those are our spe- global health and in the fall expects of USD Magazine. the director of recruitment in the cial victims,” Claudine explained in to begin a master’s program in Office of Admissions at the Francis- the story. “Our office feels that those public health. AJ TOOPS (BS/BA) is a mechani- can School of Theology. particular victims — children, the el- cal engineer for the M+W Group. derly and people in domestic violence AUSTIN ENGLISH (BA) is working He recently married Katie Dethlefsen WILLIAM HOLDEN (BA) returned situations — need additional attention toward a master’s degree in history at the Brophy Chapel in Phoenix. recently from eight months of and resources.” Claudine earned a at USD. AJ and Katie also bought a home travel through France, Spain, bachelor’s degree in international rela- in Phoenix. Morocco, Colombia, Ecuador tions, as well as JD and LLM degrees. ERIC A. GERRARD (JD) joined and Peru. “I lived with local fami- She loved spending time with family the Bartle & Geier law firm as an CASSANDRA WELLS (BA) assists lies I met along the way in each and friends, and is survived by her hus- associate in Lincoln, Neb. in-house counsel at a property man- country,” he says. “Their economic band, William J. Beckwith, two young agement company. status ranged from the top 1 per- sons, mother and stepfather, sisters, KATIE GORDON (BA) is working cent to the bottom 1 percent. and father-in-law and mother-in-law. toward a master’s degree in fashion [2013] In Ecuador and Peru, I climbed vol- studies at Parsons the New School ADEBAYO ADELEKE (MS) writes, canos, worked as an Amazon HERBERT E. WHYTE, who served for Design. “I am wrapping up my military guide’s assistant and as a bartender as USD’s director of financial aid duties and getting ready to hit in the largest hostel in South Amer- from 1976 until his retirement in CARA MILLER (PhD) is a teaching the job market.” ica, and completed solo multi-day 1989, passed away on Jan. 23, 2014. fellow at Harvard University Exten- treks through the Andes.” Herb was a decorated veteran who sion School. HANNAH BERTRANDO (BA) is graduated from the U.S. Naval taking a year off before attending ALVIN JAVIER (BS/BA) is an Academy in 1946 and he served as BRENTON MONTGOMERY (BBA) law school in the fall of 2014. electrical designer for Randall Lamb, an aviator in both Korea and Viet- has been working at a small CPA firm an engineering consulting firm. nam. At USD, Herb was dedicated in Kearney Mesa, Calif., and reports AARON BROWN (BBA) is a to serving students who needed that he hopes to become a certified business partner with Lawrence KATHERINE MALEWSKI (BA) financial aid and he was respected public accountant within a year. Kourie ’10. They own and operate is a technical recruiter for CTC Inc. by his financial aid colleagues. SoCal Gas and Car Wash in Escon- He is survived by his wife, Geraldine PHUONG “EMILY” PHAN (BA) dido, Calif. BRYN NELSON (BA) is a business “Gerry” Whyte, four children, 10 is a scheduling coordinator at WIS analyst in the greater Seattle area. grandchildren and 17 great-grand- International and works part time JESSICA BUCKLEY (BS/BA) children. A USD scholarship fund at The Rush Indoor Cycling Studio, is a master’s student at Colorado ROCIO GARZA TISDELL (MSGL) has been established in his honor. founded by fellow USD alumnus School of Mines. joined the Virginia Tech Carilion Tim Suski. School of Medicine in Roanoke, SOPHIA CARRILLO (BA) was Va., as the diversity and inclusion Torero Notes may be edited for ANTHONY REYES (MA) is a mar- selected as one of 10 Americans program manager. Rocio and her length and clarity. Photos must be high riage and family therapist in Sacra- to study in The Hague, Netherlands, husband continue to work on their resolution, so adjust camera settings mento, Calif. “USD has allowed me with international criminal court start-up company, Domesticat, a accordingly. Engagements, pregnancies, to flourish professionally due to its prosecutors, scholars and peacemak- line of modern products for pets personal email addresses and telephone strong alumni base and support,” ers as part of the International Peace and their owners. numbers cannot be published. Anthony says. and Security Institute’s Hague Sym- posium in Post-Conflict Transitions JORDAN WALKER (BBA) Email: [email protected] JAMIE RITTERBECK (JD) joined and International Justice. moved to Chicago after graduating Website: www.sandiego.edu/usdmag Klinedinst PC as an associate in from USD. U.S. Mail: USD Magazine Torero Notes, San Diego. LAUREN COMBS (BA) is a recruit- University of San Diego ing manager in the finance and [2014] University Publications TONY TERAVAINEN (MSEL) accounting division at Robert Half JENNIFER GEE (BBA) writes, 5998 Alcalá Park, received a county proclamation in San Francisco. “I am loving my job, “Actively seeking career oppor- San Diego, CA 92110 on the deck of the U.S.S. Midway but missing all the wonderful things tunities!” in January 2014 in support of the about USD and San Diego!” she says. Scan this QR code to update your email nonprofit he chairs, Support the GINA SOTELO (MSGL) is currently and other information. We’ll be sure to Enlisted Project (STEP). STEP is DENNIS DIENST (MS) completed seeking funding to start a busi- send you event invitations, USD news and a local resource that supports USD’s master’s program in supply ness endeavor. our upcoming Alumni Attitude Survey. lower-ranking military enlisted chain management in October and recently honorably discharged 2013 and walked during the May veteran families who are experi- 2014 commencement. He also encing financial hardship. “It feels reports that he was promoted in In Memoriam good to know that an organization March 2014. that I have committed so many CLAUDINE RUIZ ’00 (JD), passed hours to through the years is RACHEL EHSAN (JD) joined away on Feb. 7, 2014, after a battle with prospering from practical application business litigation law firm Webb cancer. A prosecutor for the County of of the methodology I learned in & Bordson APC in San Diego. San Diego’s Family Protection Division
FALL 2014 39 [reunion reminder]
COURTESY OF MIKE WILLIAMS ‘92 WILLIAMS MIKE OF COURTESY A THIRD OF INCOMING FRESHMAN specifically state that making the world a better place is one of the factors that brought them to campus, says incoming Changemaker Hub Director Mike Williams ‘92. “They’re coming here not only for our academics, but for the opportunity to be hands-on when it comes to making a difference in the world.” Williams, an associate professor of political science, walks the walk: He’s been bringing groups of students to the tiny South African village of Makuleke for the past several years. The
CHANGE MAKER idea is to nurture and grow a personal, meaningful relationship with the people there, and to collaborate with local high school students who are eager to advocate for better educational resourc- es. “For the first time in my career, I feel my passion for improving the lives of others and for intellectual understanding overlapping,”
CHANGEMAKER CHANGEMAKER CHANGEMAKER CHANGEMAKER CHANGEMAKER CHANGEMAKER CHANGEMAKER says Williams. Read more at universityofsandiegoinsa.tumblr.com.
40 USD MAGAZINE
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
October 10-12 Saturday, October 11 Friday, October 17 Wednesday, Homecoming and Homecoming and Women’s Volleyball November 19 Family Weekend Family Weekend USD v. BYU Alumni Piano Concert USD campus Football Game Jenny Craig Pavilion Founders Hall www.sandiego.edu/hfw USD v. Stetson USDToreros.com French Parlor USDToreros.com www.sandiego.edu/cas/music ‘92 OF MIKE WILLIAMS MIKE OF COURTESY
Coming Soon! There are many Torero Saturday, December 13 Friday, December 5 and Thursday, January 29 alumni events happening Sunday, December 7 Alumni around the globe! Christmas Mass All Faith Service Lessons and Carols Founders Chapel Shiley Theatre Check them out at www.sandiego.edu/cctc alumni.sandiego.edu www.sandiego.edu/um alumni.sandiego.edu
Check out more USD events at www.sandiego.edu/about/news_center/events. OFFICE OF UNIVERSITY PUBLICATIONS NON-PROFIT ORG. 5998 ALCALÁ PARK U.S. POSTAGE SAN DIEGO, CA 92110-2492 PAID SAN DIEGO, CA CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED PERMIT NO. 365
Tailgate and Picnic
Family Festivities and Big Blue Bash october 10-12, 2014
Football Game
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Family Mass www.sandiego.edu/hfw