Welcome to Regional Administration Carly Harmon!

Dear Colleagues,

I’m excited to introduce Carly Harmon as our newest Development Coordinator (DC) team member. Carly will partner with Shaheen Goldrick, Ken Johnson and Mark Helmke.

Carly began her tenure on Monday, June 19th but is no stranger to the South Bend community, She most recently assisted patrons with technology and provided great customer service for the St. Joseph County Public Library, Francis Branch.

Carly received her BA in English from Bryn Mawr College in 2020. She enjoys creative writing, playing D&D, reading “awful romance” books (her words, not mine!), and playing video games.

Please join me to welcome Carly to University Relations!

Deena Chamberlin
Lori Tinkey

Welcome to Regional Administration, Arlia Delphonse!

Dear Colleagues,

Please help us welcome Arlia Delphonse to Regional Development as a Development Coordinator (DC). Arlia is moving to South Bend from Largo, Florida, having most recently worked as an Administrative Assistant for her family’s business.

Arlia graduated from Notre Dame in 2016 with a major in Japanese and a minor in Gender Studies. During that time, she worked as a Japanese language tutor as well as a writing tutor. She obtained her MS in Library and Information Science from Catholic University in 2020 and has worked as a library assistant at the Largo Public Library as well as a library technician at the National Gallery of Art. Arlia enjoys birdwatching, playing video games, and studying the Japanese language.

Arlia’s tech and organizational skills, in addition to her commitment to the University’s mission, will undoubtedly help advance our team’s work and culture.

Welcome to Development, Arlia!

Angie Dennig

Lori Tinkey

Welcome to the Southwest Team, Brandon Williamson!

All,

I would like to welcome our newest regional director, Brandon Williamson, to the SouthBest team. Brandon, a Bethel University grad (BS and MBA), joins us from Flagstar Bank, where he served as a senior mortgage loan officer.

He previously held other banking and insurance roles at First State Bank, Gibbson Insurance, and United Federal Credit Union. Brandon also serves on the boards at Friends of the St. Joseph County Parks, Junior Achievement, and South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Brandon lives locally with his wife, Stephanie, and his 1-year-old son, Huxley. Brandon’s first day will be Monday, June 5. He will be working with families in Arizona.

Please join me in welcoming Brandon to the Notre Dame family!

Best, Shelby

Thank you, Darius Walker!

All,

It is bittersweet to announce that Darius Walker will be leaving the University to take on other amazing opportunities in Los Angeles. His last day will be July 1. We are grateful for Darius’ many contributions to Our Lady’s University and her students.

During his five years as a regional director in the Los Angeles area, Darius raised $25M in production to areas including Mendoza, the Law School, Student Affairs, and DPAC, and over $3M in mission giving. These gifts have impacted hundreds of ND students and the ripple effects will be immeasurable.

Thank you, Darius, for being a great teammate, partner, and representative of Notre Dame.

Please join me in congratulating Darius on all he has accomplished and wishing him well during this next phase of his career!

Best, Shelby

Congratulations Stephanie Washington new Associate Director, Learning and Organizational Development!

Dear Colleagues,

Please join us in celebrating Stephanie Washington as she transitions to her new role of Associate Director, Learning and Organizational Development.

Stephanie’s contributions to Notre Dame began 5 years ago in her Alumni Association role of Marketing and Communications Coordinator. In 2021, Stephanie joined the fundraising arm of University Relations in the role of Development Coordinator. Since that time, she’s cultivated successful fundraising partnerships with Shaheen Goldrick, Tom Cummings, Ken Johnson, and Mitch Dansky. She has also spearheaded the DC Team’s unique DEIU efforts, serving as a hub for diversity resources, creating a book club, and infusing our interview process with targeted diversity questions. Stephanie concurrently served as a Diversity Catalyst for UR hiring. She will continue to be a leader For Good in our DEIU efforts within UR and across campus. We’re extremely grateful for her impact on our team, as well as on a personal level. Thank you, Stephanie! You will be missed!

In her new role, Stephanie will lead the evergreen and ever-evolving UR onboarding program, co-produce venues of ongoing professional development for all of our colleagues, and contribute towards division-wide strategic projects like the UR Internship Program. She will continue to serve as a key stakeholder in DEIU initiatives. A graduate of Purdue University, Stephanie will bring her wealth of knowledge, relationships, and experience from Regional Development Administration to immediately benefit the expanding team in Learning and Organizational Development. She will transition to her new role on Monday, June 12.

Congratulations, Stephanie!

Deena Chamberlain, Lori Tinkey and Bryan Reaume

Welcome Caitlin Hutchison to the Stewardship & Donor Relations team!

It is my pleasure to welcome Caitlin Hutchison to the Stewardship & Donor Relations team, reporting to me in her role as Assistant Director, University Stewardship Initiatives. Caitlin’s first day will be Monday, June 5th, and she will serve as the stewardship partner to the Keough School of Global Affairs, DeBartolo Performing Arts Center, Raclin Murphy Museum of Art, School of Architecture, University Enterprises and Events, and will manage Suspense Fund reporting for the Stewardship & Donor Relations team.

After completing her B.A. in History at Ferris State University, Caitlin earned an M.A. in Art History from Notre Dame in 2012, becoming a proud member of the Notre Dame family. She went on to complete her Ph.D. studies in Art History at University of Delaware, researching high crosses in early medieval Ireland especially as they relate to secular and sacred landscapes.

Caitlin was awarded the prestigious US-UK Fulbright Scholar Award for 2020-2021, through which she taught as a Visiting Lecturer at the University of York in the United Kingdom. Caitlin also taught as an Instructor of Record at the University of Delaware from 2014-2020, and most recently served as an Assistant Teaching Professor in the Department of Art History at Ball State University for the 2022-2023 Academic Year. While in these positions Caitlin was a lecturer of undergraduate and graduate courses in art history and the humanities, in which she taught about art, architecture, and society from a broad range of historical and contemporary cultures. Caitlin is also an accomplished athlete, and was a member of the Women’s Basketball Team at Ferris State University while completing her undergraduate degree. She brought this passion for athletics to her time at Notre Dame as a Master’s student, where she won co-ed championships in basketball, flag football, and volleyball, and proudly claimed the women’s Bookstore Basketball Championship in 2011.

Caitlin’s past Notre Dame experience, successful academic background, and professional development within various higher education settings will serve both her and the University very well as a stewardship partner to our academic units. Please join me in offering a warm welcome to Caitlin Hutchison as she joins the University Relations family.

Claire Brown

Welcome Betsy Quinn, Sr. Director of Advisory Councils and Volunteer Engagement!

I am excited to announce that Betsy Quinn has accepted the position of Senior Director of Advisory Councils and Volunteer Engagement and will begin on June 12, 2023.

Betsy earned her engineering degree from Notre Dame in 1995, and for the past 17 years she has served as the Director of Stewardship and Engagement at St. Piux X Catholic Church in Granger. In this leadership role, she was responsible for organizing and coordinating the $21.7M capital campaign for a new church and expansion of parish facilities.

Betsy has four children including twin girls who graduated from Notre Dame in 2022, and her husband James works in the Investment Office. She is an avid Notre Dame and Chicago Cubs fan. Please join me in extending a warm welcome to Betsy at betsyquinn97@gmail.com.

– Drew Buscareno

Best wishes to Natalie Sargent!

Dear Colleagues,

Please join me in congratulating Natalie Sargent as she begins a new role in the Provost’s Office as the Director of Faculty Awards & Recognition, effective June 1.

Enhancing Notre Dame’s pipeline of national recognition and awards for faculty is an area of strategic importance for the University, and Natalie will be working with the provost, the Provost’s Office team and senior leaders across the academy to lead strategy and facilitate collaboration.

During her tenure as Academic Advancement Director, and in collaboration with many of you, over $106M has been raised to date for the Mendoza College of Business including for the Business Honors Program and the Meyer Business on the Frontlines Program.

On behalf of the AAD team, we wish Natalie well and will commence the search for our next Academic Advancement Director for Mendoza as soon as possible. If you or anyone in your network would be interested in this role, please reach out to me at any time.

Thanks!

KO

Thank you and Farewell to Amy Walter

UR Friends and Colleagues,

I write to share the news that Amy Walter will be leaving her role as Development Coordinator to pursue an opportunity in ND Athletics as the Building Services Coordinator. Her last day will be Friday, May 5th. We are grateful for her many contributions to our DC team and wish her much success as she embarks on this new role.

Please join me in extending best wishes to Amy as she transitions to her new campus position.

All the best,

Angie Dennig and the DC team

Welcome Claire Brown to Stewardship & Donor Relations!

It is my pleasure to welcome Claire Brown to the Stewardship & Donor Relations team, reporting directly to me in her role as Program Director, University Stewardship Initiatives. Claire’s first day will be Wednesday, April 26th, and she will serve as the stewardship partner to the College of Arts & Letters, Notre Dame International, as well as leading the Endowed Professorships and Directorships program on behalf of the Stewardship & Donor Relations team.

Already a proud member of the Notre Dame family, Claire received her Notre Dame B.A. in Anthropology, with honors, in 2011. She went on to complete her M.A. and Ph.D. studies in Anthropology at Binghamton University, State University of New York.

As an undergrad, Nanovic Institute study grants instilled in Claire a love for the people, culture, and landscape of Ireland, leading Claire to spend a number of years there following her undergraduate experience. Claire worked from 2020 to 2022 as a postdoctoral research fellow at Teagasc – Ireland’s Agriculture & Food Development Authority, Galway, Ireland. Prior to that, from 2015 to 2018 Claire served as a Program Manager and Affiliated Scholar at Notre Dame’s Kylemore Abbey Global Center. In this role she was responsible for organizing and managing all visiting international academic programs for undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty. Claire also designed and led communications campaigns to recruit students and faculty to Center programs. Further, Claire has served as a research assistant at Notre Dame and a graduate student teaching assistant at Binghamton University, and has authored a number of publications and papers as part of her academic research.

Claire’s Notre Dame roots, successful academic background, and experience in higher ed administration will serve both her and the University very well as a stewardship partner to our academic units. Please join me in offering a warm welcome to Claire Brown as she joins the University Relations family.

Cristi Ganyard

Two Job Postings: Promoting Growth

Colleagues-

As our collective team and goals grow, so does our commitment to providing ongoing education, training, and professional development. Accordingly, Sara Liebscher, Brian Diss, and I have been collaborating to expand the capacity and influence of the Learning and Organizational Development (LOD) team.

I am pleased to announce two job postings:

Fundraiser Training Specialist (new role)

Associate Director, LOD
(role currently held by Mary Flynt) See previous announcement about transition.

I gladly welcome all applications, interest, referrals, and questions.

For Notre Dame,

Bryan Reaume

Welcome to the Prospect & Research Strategy Team, Nicole Konieczny!

It is my pleasure to welcome Nicole Konieczny (pronounced Kah-nez-nee) to the Prospect & Research Strategy team as Research Analyst, effective April 12. In her new role, Nicole will be working with the Research team to provide quality research to fundraisers and help identify process improvement opportunities in our recurring project-based work.

Nicole was a Division I Women’s Basketball player at Valparaiso University where she received her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. She then went on to Stephen F. Austin State University, where she continued to play while earning her Master of Business Administration.

We are excited to see the impact Nicole’s skills and energy will have on our team. Please consider reaching out to Nicole at nkoniecz@nd.edu to introduce yourself.

Welcome Nicole!
Christina Ryan
Director, Prospect Research

Welcoming Anu Osinubi, NDAA-IT Email Communications Analyst

I am pleased to announce a new member of the NDAA IT Team will be joining us on Monday, April 17, just in time for our Spring Board Meeting and Leadership Conference!

Anuoluwapo (Anu) Osinubi will be joining the NDAA IT Team as our new Email Communications Analyst next Monday. Anu is multi-talented and comes to Notre Dame with a background in email communications and web development and design. He was most recently working with Beacon Health. On the side he has been building Kwikapay—a startup fintech based in his home country, Nigeria. Anu is looking forward to the opportunity to learn, grow, and meet new people as he comes into his new role working with our email communications here in the NDAA.

When you see him next week, please take a moment to welcome him to the team.

John

Welcome Mary Lake to Gift Planning Advancement!

Friends and Colleagues,

I am very pleased to introduce you to our newest Gift Planning Officer, Mary Lake (’91). Mary earned her Bachelor of Arts from Fordham University and her J.D. from Notre Dame Law School. For years following law school, Mary served as Managing Partner of Lake & Lake, a law practice in LaPorte County where Mary represented clients in matters that included estate planning and real estate, and she later served as Deputy Public Defender in LaPorte County. For the past four years Mary has worked as Chief of Staff for the LaPorte County Prosecuting Attorney, leading a team of more than forty employees.

Mary and her husband John (’88) are the proud parents of seven children, including one Notre Dame graduate and two other current Notre Dame students. Mary’s first day is Monday, April 3, and her regional assignment will be determined and effective as of the start of the new fiscal year. Please come say hello to Mary next week (she will be sharing office space with Sarah Wodrich) and give her a warm welcome to Development!

TJ

Congratulations, Jeff Fersch!

Dear Colleagues,

Please join us in congratulating Jeff Fersch on his transition to the Prospect & Research Strategy team as a Research Analyst!

Jeff has been with Development since 2005, when he worked as a Development Assistant. In 2014, he became a fundraiser for what was then the Midwest Region. He continued with the Illinois Region and worked with donors in the Chicagoland area. Jeff has been a prolific mission-giving fundraiser — consistently posting $1 million-plus in unrestricted — along with hitting his tier target in six of the last seven years. More than the numbers, Jeff is known for the consummate care he shows donors and his teammates. The Chicago team wishes him great success as he continues to serve Our Lady’s mission.

In his new role, Jeff will be working with the Research team to provide quality research to fundraisers and help identify process improvement opportunities in our recurring project-based work. We’re excited to gain Jeff’s unique insight as a long-standing member of the Development family. Jeff will make his transition to the team on April 17th.

Again, please join us in congratulating Jeff on his new role!

Jerry Barca & Christina Ryan

Welcome to the Chicago team, John Cunningham!

I am excited to announce that John Cunningham has joined the Chicago team as a regional director. John (’18, ’20 M.Ed) was born in South Bend, but after various moves during his childhood, his family has called Chapel Hill, North Carolina home for the last twelve years.

While a student at Notre Dame, John worked as a manager for the men’s basketball program under Coach Mike Brey. After graduation John taught middle school social studies for two years at Our Lady of Sorrows School in McAllen, Texas, as part of the ACE Teaching Fellows Program.

After a stint working with the Advancement Team at Saint Joseph High School in South Bend, John was the Facility Operations Manager for the Kansas City Current, a soccer team in the NWSL, for the past two years. John joined the KC Current during its inaugural season in 2021 and worked on a number of projects including the building process of the team’s training facility.

John has always been around sports, and enjoys playing and watching any game and spending time with family and friends.

His first day in the office is Wednesday, March 29.

– Jerry Barca

Welcome our new Talent Acquisition Consultant, Beth Graybill!

Please join me in welcoming Beth Graybill to our team. Beth will serve as a Talent Acquisition Consultant on the Organizational Strategy team, and will report to Adria Logan. Beth’s first day is Monday, March 27th.
Beth comes to us from her own consulting business where she provided leadership coaching, facilitated team retreats, and worked with non-profit organizations to recruit, hire, and retain executive level development leaders. Beth’s experience, skillset, and commitment to the mission of Our Lady’s University will help advance our team’s work and culture.
Please consider reaching out to Beth at bgraybil@nd.edu to introduce yourself and provide a warm welcome.
– Adria Logan

Welcome Emily Naff to Regional Development Administration!

Dear Colleagues,

Please help us welcome Emily Naff to Regional Development as a Development Coordinator (DC). Emily’s first day will be Monday, March 27th.

Emily is no stranger to Notre Dame! She comes to us from the Main Building where she has worked for the past year as a Marketing and Design Specialist for our Marketing Department. Prior to that, she was in Grace Hall working as a People Services Associate in our Human Resources Department. Before joining the Notre Dame family in 2020, Emily held HR and Marketing positions at Talent Source in Mishawaka and Mahoney Family Dentistry in South Bend.

Emily received her BS in Marketing from Indiana University South Bend.

Emily’s experience, skillset, and commitment to the mission of Our Lady’s University will no doubt help advance our team’s work and culture. Development is lucky to have her!

Please consider reaching out to Emily at eknouse@nd.edu to introduce yourself.

Welcome to Development, Emily!

Anita Sareen

Lori Tinkey

 

Welcome Koby Keck to Gift Planning Administration!

It is our pleasure to welcome Koby Keck to the DC Team as a Development Coordinator in Gift Planning. Koby’s first day will be Monday, March 27.

Koby brings a wealth of institutional knowledge from his time working with the Center for Sustainable Energy since 2017 in which he worked as an Administrative Coordinator. He is also on the Board of Directors of New Carlisle Hometown Days. Koby previously owned and operated the New Carlisle Gazette.

Koby received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Notre Dame with a major in Political Science.

Please join us in welcoming Koby!

Jen Koebel and Lori Tinkey

Changes for Mary Flynt & the LOD Team

In full support of our trusted colleague Mary Flynt, I inform you of her decision:

“After careful thought and consideration, I’ve decided to step back from work to focus on our family during this current season of life. I’ve been inspired, encouraged, supported, and loved by the UR team since even before I joined it, so this departure is bittersweet in many ways. My last day isn’t for a few months yet so I’m confident there will be many more memories made, people to onboard, and opportunities to connect before I depart.”

Mary will continue her model service to our mission until July 1.
Please join me in celebrating her in the coming months.
True to above-and-beyond form, Mary’s thoughtful notice propels effective continuation of her impact.

Also, I am pleased to share that Sara Liebscher, Brian Diss, and I have been collaborating to expand the capacity and influence of the Learning and Organizational Development (LOD) team. Stay tuned for additional news and postings in the coming weeks.

For Notre Dame,

Bryan Reaume

 

Welcome Beth Lindauer to Central Region!

The Central Region is excited to announce that Beth Lindauer will join the team as a Regional Director beginning today, Monday, March 20th. Beth grew up in Colorado but lived in Louisville, Kentucky, for 13 years where she taught in the Oldham County Schools. She and her husband, Chris, moved to the area this past year when Chris was named the Karl Peterson Head Swimming and Diving Coach here at Notre Dame. Beth and Chris have quickly fallen in love with Notre Dame and the Michiana area. Inspired by the talent and optimism of the Notre Dame family as well as Notre Dame’s mission to be a force for good in the world, she looks forward to working alongside her new colleagues and benefactors to serve the world and create opportunities for others.

Beth and Chris have three sons: Jack (13), Owen (10), and Brady (8). The family enjoys travel, the outdoors, and playing / watching sports (swimming for dad, of course, and baseball, basketball, and hockey for the boys). Beth likes to read and has competed in several marathons and half marathons.

Welcome, Beth Lindauer!

– Jason Scarlett

Warm Welcome to Sarah Kriegshauser, Affinity Marketing Program Director, Alumni Association

Team,

I am elated to introduce you to our new Affinity Marketing Program Director, Sarah Kriegshauser!

Sarah is a native of St. Louis, Missouri, where she was active with the Club of St. Louis. After high school, Sarah attended Xavier University (class of 2019), in Cincinnati, OH. She has been active with the ND Club of Cincinnati, recently as their YoungND Coordinator. Some of you may recognize her last name, as Sarah’s father, Keith Kriegshauser, and grandfather, Herman Kriegshauser are former NDAA board members. Sarah’s brother is currently a freshman here at Notre Dame.

For the last 4 years, Sarah has worked as the marketing coordinator at UASI, a healthcare consulting company in Cincinnati, OH. Sarah enjoys spending time with family and friends, attending sporting events and concerts.

Sarah will start on March 20th. Please join me in welcoming Sarah to the team!

Molly Lenaburg
Assistant Director, Marketing and Communications

Farewell Landon Weldy

Please join me in wishing Landon Weldy a successful transition to his new position in marketing and communications at Partners Worldwide, based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Landon joined the Storytelling and Engagement team in June 2019, and his last day will be March 10, 2023. We’ve had the privilege of watching him grow over the years and become a valuable member of our team.

Many of you have had the pleasure of working with Landon on storytelling fundraising proposals and Notre Dame Day. Landon was also responsible for coordinating the Live Chats, Fighting Irish Foodies, and many other special projects.

Landon is a native of Goshen, Indiana and a graduate of Goshen College. Since joining Notre Dame, Landon’s family members have relocated to Florida and to Grand Rapids; we are not sure he chose the correct family member to follow!

Please join me in thanking Landon for sharing his many gifts with the Notre Dame family, and in wishing him much success and happiness as he writes the next chapter in his story.

Thank you, Landon!
David Chaudoir

Farewell and Best Wishes to Casey Buck

UR Friends and Colleagues,

I write to share the news that Casey Buck will be leaving his role of Development Coordinator to pursue an exciting professional opportunity as an Associate Director of Development, Special Operations for Purdue University, his alma mater. His last day at the University is Friday, February 24th. We wish Casey the best in his next chapter, and he will always be a member of the Notre Dame Family!

Please join me in congratulating Casey and wishing him well as he embarks on this exciting next chapter in his career.

All the best,

Anita Sareen & the DC Team

Welcome Terri Glenn as new NDAA Spirituality and Service Coordinator!

Staff,

I am excited to announce the hiring of Terri Glenn as our next Spirituality and Service Coordinator. For more than 25 years, Terri has been employed at the Potts Law Office. Given the coming retirement of the staff there, Terri was looking for a new challenge. We were thrilled that she considered us, and she is very eager to be coming to a role where she can share her lifelong Catholic faith as part of our outreach.

Terri and her husband James have been married for 45 years this month and have been blessed with three sons and seven grandchildren.

Monday, February 27, will be Terri’s first day. Until then, please join me in welcoming her!

All the best,
Dan

Congrats and Best Wishes, Amelia

Friends and Colleagues,

I write to share the news that Amelia Thompson will be leaving Notre Dame to pursue an exciting professional opportunity, one that brings her closer to home in Tennessee. Her last day at the University is this Friday, February 10.

In the nearly two years that Amelia has been a valued member of this team, she has built and grown a number of important relationships on behalf of the University. She has had an unmistakable impact on Notre Dame, this team and the benefactors with whom she has worked.

Please join me in thanking Amelia and wishing her well as she embarks on this exciting next chapter in her career.

All the best,
Ryan

Best Wishes to Brooke Wenzel!

Colleagues,

Please join me in wishing Brooke Wenzel all the best as she departs the Notre Dame family to start a new career at ExtraHop, a cyber-security company based in Seattle, doing process improvement projects for their marketing department. She will continue living in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota close to her family and with her dog, Honeybear.

Brooke moved to South Bend and joined us in 2013 after working for Thomson Reuters as a legal research associate in Washington, DC. She spent 5 years with the Gift Planning team beginning the launch of the DAF portal program, 3 years with the CCPC team working directly with benefactors and fundraisers in the NY Metro and East Coast regions, and has spent the last two years continuing her partnership with George West and Ryan Brennan to grow portfolios and onboard many new fundraisers and teammates. She is passionate about her work and has made a huge impact with her strategic mindset, insight, and creative ideas.

Please join us in gratitude and congratulations to Brooke as we say farewell for now! Her last day will be Friday, February 10th. We will be posting shortly for a new Prospect Management Consultant position, so please contact Jonathan Retartha if you know of any interest in the role.

Here is Brooke’s personal contact information – please keep in touch!

Email: Brookewenzel01@gmail.com

Cell: 651-278-6074

 

Thank you Brooke!

-Jonathan Retartha

Congratulations Gavin McGuire – incoming Keough School Academic Advancement Director

Dear Colleagues,

I am so pleased to announce that Gavin McGuire has accepted the position of Academic Advancement Director for the Keough School of Global Affairs, effective March 1, 2023.

As many of you know, Gavin has been a tremendous asset to our team and Notre Dame since 2013. He has served since October 2018 as the Advisor to the Vice President of University Relations, providing strategic support to Lou Nanni and UR’s senior leadership team. Before his time in the Main Building, Gavin occupied the roles of Program Director for Innovation and Strategies, Assistant Director of the Notre Dame Trail, and Development Associate, working closely with Micki Kidder.

I can speak for both myself and my team that we are thrilled to have him join us!

Gavin’s current role as Advisor to the Vice President of University Relations will be posted in the coming days. See Adria Logan with any questions, and we encourage any colleagues interested to apply. For now, please join me in congratulating Gavin!

KO

Welcome Hilary Ott, New Arts & Architecture AAD

I’d like you all to welcome our new Arts & Architecture AAD, Hilary Ott! Hilary is joining us from New York City where she worked for more than 3 years as a Private Sales Accounts Manager at Christie’s. She received her Master of Arts in Art Business from Sotheby’s Institute of Art in New York and has been working in the city ever since – beginning with an internship at the Guggenheim, to Sotheby’s before landing a few different roles at Christie’s. Her extensive background in the arts and humanities, and relationship building makes her a great fit for this role. As a Domer from the class of 2013, she is not new to Notre Dame, but we are happy that she is back in South Bend.

As the Arts & Architecture AAD, Hilary will be responsible for driving philanthropy to DPAC, Snite/Raclin Murphy Museum of Art, and the School of Architecture. As you all know, I am looking forward to passing the baton into her more than capable hands. Her first day in Development will be Monday, January 30, 2023 – the start of fundraiser training week. Please say hi and introduce yourself throughout the week.

We are thrilled to have Hilary join the team!

– Katy Orenchuk

Welcome to the Alumni Association Dani Elgas, Todd Lemons, Mary Prebys, and Amy Retartha!

Team,

I’m excited to provide you with some information on the newest members of the NDAA Team…

 

Dani Elgas: Guest Experience Program Director (formerly Special Events Program Director) starting January 23, 2023

A native of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and a graduate of Iowa State University, Dani Elgas has lived in the South Bend area for the last 11 years working in leadership roles for the YMCA and Junior Achievement of Northern Indiana. Outside of work, Dani is a mother of two (Tyler – 11 and Addie – 7). In her free time, she’s heavily involved at her church and Prairie Vista Elementary. Additionally, Dani plays slow pitch softball, participates in a women’s golf league and enjoys a variety of fitness-related activities.

 

Todd Lemons: IT Solutions Consultant starting Jan 17, 2023

Todd comes to Notre Dame from Bethel University where he spent the past 19 years, most recently serving as the Director of Infrastructure and Information Security. He brings a background in technology infrastructure, AV technologies, and even some audio engineering through a past career and his current volunteer work. He’s looking forward to the fun, change, and challenges that working in the NDAA will bring and is excited to get to know the team.

 

Mary Prebys: Alumni Groups Coordinator starting January 23, 2023

Mary Prebys is a proud member of the Notre Dame Class of 2018 with a Bachelor’s degree in Theology with a minor in Education. Some of you might remember Mary as a student worker for the Alumni Association all 4 years. After graduation, Mary returned to her home in the suburbs of Chicago as a Youth Minister at Our Lady of Mt Carmel Parish in Darien, IL. Later, she moved on to be the Vice President of Marketing and Engagement at a small life insurance company before realizing her dream of returning to the Notre Dame Alumni Association. She loves spending her time with her puppy, Mr Curly Lambeau (go Pack go!), watching college and professional football, and traveling to visit family all over the country.

 

Amy Retartha: Professional and Alumni Education Coordinator starting January 17, 2023

Amy brings 5 years of experience supporting our local community through her work at the St. Joseph County Public Library where she coordinated 150+online programs during Covid-19 and a multitude of in-person programs. She will draw upon her front and back-of-house theatre training in this role supporting ThinkND. Hesburgh Lecture Series, Reunion programming, IrishCompass and more. Amy’s talents include her analytical, creative, people, logistical, and technical abilities. Amy is married to Ryan Retartha who engages Mendoza alumni for the University and together they have two sons: Ellis and Quinn.

 

Please join me in welcoming this incredible group to the NDAA!

All the best,

Dolly

Upgrade your skill set with Technical Training Classes this spring

OIT recently released information about their spring 2023 training courses. Read here for even more info. 

“The new year is here and it’s the perfect time to upgrade your skill set. Whether it’s learning valuable tips from a Time-Out for Tech session, taking an instructor-led class, or finding an online class in Udemy, technical training classes from the Office of Information Technologies (OIT) have something for everyone.”

Congratulations Christina Ryan – UR’s new Dir. Prospect Research!

Dear Colleagues,

Please join me in congratulating Christina Ryan on her promotion to Director of Prospect Research. In this newly created position, she will lead and grow our Prospect Research team. A member of the team since August 2021, she quickly became an integral contributor, providing quality research to fundraisers and identifying process improvement opportunities in our recurring project-based work. Christina also actively pursues opportunities to enhance the team’s knowledge base and the suite of tools used to conduct research.

She will lead the team that currently consists of Ben Moeller and Megan Andedo. As our Senior Prospect Research Analyst, Ben Moeller will continue to provide direct research support to University Relations Executives, lead the team’s Advisory Council renewal and nomination research effort, and will be responsible for designing the curriculum for and conducting the training of new prospect research colleagues. Megan Andedo, Prospect Research Analyst, will continue to lead the Freshman Parent research effort and will continue to oversee the team’s research on potential prospects identified through the Daily Transaction Report.

After the first of the year, Christina will begin the process of hiring three new Prospect Research Analysts, one to fill the role that she is vacating and two that will be net additions to the team.

Again, please join me in congratulating Christina on her new role!

Andrea Swanagan

Best Wishes to Jay McAllister!

UR Friends and colleagues,

I write to inform you that Jay McAllister will be leaving the University. Jay has served admirably in his roles at Notre Dame since joining the University in June of 2016, and is a friend to many throughout the Notre Dame community. Jay will be leaving for a position at Duke University, where he will be the inaugural program director for transformational gifts.

Per Jay, “this move to Duke gives me a tremendous opportunity to push myself professionally. It also provides Lindsey with a greater trajectory for her career, gets us closer to family, and will enable my mom to finally retire in a warmer climate — things that as a husband, father, and son I could not pass up being able to provide.”

Jay’s last day with Notre Dame will be January 4th, 2023. Please join me in wishing Jay success and happiness in this next endeavor.

Sean Sharpe

Welcome, Jackie Clinton!

Friends and colleagues,

I am excited to share that Jackie Clinton has joined our development team as a regional director in the New York Metro region. Her first day was December 5.

Jackie’s career has been one of hard work, service and success, with an emphasis on building strong relationships. Beyond her numerous leadership roles in public service and within the communities she has called home, she is perhaps most proud of her four children who have either graduated from or are currently attending the University of Notre Dame, including our very own Caitlyn Clinton ’20!

Please join me in giving Jackie a warm welcome to the team.

Ryan

Welcome Angie Palsak to Regional Development!

Dear Colleagues,

Please help me welcome Angie Palsak to Regional Development as a Development Coordinator (DC). Angie’s first day was Monday, December 5th.

Angie comes to us from 1st Source Bank where she served for the past year as a project-based administrative assistant in their Aircraft Operations, Specialty Financial Group. She previously served in higher education for eighteen years at Southwestern Michigan College in a multitude of areas and roles including English Instructor, Associate Dean, Academic Advising, Admissions, Student Services, and most recently as the Project Director for TRIO Student Support Services. Angie was ready to return to higher education after her year hiatus, and Notre Dame is lucky to have her!

Angie was born and raised in the South Bend area. She’s been married to her husband, Tibor, for 21 years, and they are pet parents to Vigo (Boxer), Greta (Frenchie), and Sammy (Salamander). Angie received her BA in English from Indiana University, her MFA in Creative Writing from Bowling Green State, a graduate certificate in Instructional Design from the University of Wisconsin-Stout, and has also obtained a Green Belt in Lean Six Sigma.

Angie’s interests include painting and illustration, health and wellness, and archery (cool!).

Welcome to Notre Dame, Angie!

Anita Sareen & Lori Tinkey

Prospect Management congratulates Brigette Kinney and welcomes Alexandra DeWeese as our new Consultants!

The Prospect Management team is excited to welcome Alexandra DeWeese and Brigette Kinney as two new Consultants working with the Southwest and East teams, respectively.  

Alexandra (Alex) comes to us from University Enterprises and Events where she helped build that department’s sales team from the ground up. Alex started at the University in 2014 in Student Services with the Mendoza College of Business where she was a Program Manager. She then moved to UEE’s Business Development team where she has been since 2017. Alex earned a Bachelor of Arts from Ball State University and is an Indianapolis native. She and her husband, Chad, reside in South Bend, with their three children: Emerson (5), Trey (3), and Kennedy (7 months).

It’s also a bittersweet time in the Development Coordinator (DC) world. While we are thrilled for Brigette Kinney’s promotion, we note the loss of Brigette as Regional Associate (RA) on the team in which she’s served as a natural leader since 2015. A graduate of Indiana University, Brigette has consistently applied her skills in strategy, project management, process improvement, and training. She was one of two people to re-envision and reconstruct the DC Training Toolkit that has proven invaluable to the team, and she has actively contributed to the efforts of the RA Guiding Coalition. As an excellent partner with her Regional Directors and the broader Development team, Brigette has continuously identified value-add opportunities toward fundraising effectiveness. 

In their new roles as Prospect Management Consultants, Alex and Brigette will work closely with Shelby and George in building and managing portfolios, while providing actionable insights and recommendations on the path to goal. They will start with the team and begin their onboarding process on December 5, and will likely join in regional meetings starting after the new year.

Congratulations Brigette, and Welcome Alex!

Jonathan Retartha, Anita Sareen, Lori Tinkey

Athletics Advancement Update

Friends and Colleagues,

I write to tell you that Mike Brown is no longer with the University, effective Wednesday, November 16th.

We thank him for his years of service to the University and wish him well in his next chapter. All benefactor needs or questions should be directed to me. Thanks in advance for your collaboration.

-Riley Koval

Welcome Caiti Houlihan, the new Academic Advancement Associate!

I’d like to offer a warm welcome to Caiti Houlihan, the new Academic Advancement Associate! Caiti joins us from almost two years as a visa officer for the Consulate General of Ireland, Chicago. She is a 2019 ND grad with a major in Economics and a minor in Irish Studies. She obtained her Masters in Irish and Irish American Studies from NYU in 2021. She also speaks Gaelic!

The AAD team is thrilled to have Caiti on board and look forward to having her be a department-wide resource on campaign priorities, proposal development, and stewardship. I’m not going to say I teared up a little when she arrived, but I also can’t guarantee it didn’t happen.

Please stop by the AAD space and say hello!

Thanks so much,

KO

Welcome to Development Administration, Teesha Wright!

Dear Colleagues,

Please help me to welcome LaTeesha (Teesha) Wright to Regional Development as a Regional Coordinator (DC). Teesha’s first day was Monday, November 7th.

Teesha has spent the last twelve years assisting the Environmental Staff at the Saint Joseph County Health Department. Her calm demeanor and organizational skills were an asset to our community in getting through the frightening days of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Teesha lives locally and is a proud graduate of LaSalle High School. She received a certificate in medical coding and insurance billing (NHA/BCS) from Ivy Tech. When not cheering on the Fighting Irish or the Chicago Bears, she can be found on the hunt for the best cheeseburger (Byron’s in Chicago, in her humble opinion), Teesha spends time with her 4 grandchildren, and her 3 grown sons (TJ, Terraell and Timothy). as often as she can.

Welcome to Notre Dame, Teesha!

Deena Chamberlin

Lori Tinkey

Tara Reilly – welcome back to the Central Region!

Monday, November 7th, was a very special day for the Central Region team.

Tara Reilly has returned after a short stint with the Inspired Leadership Initiative. We have missed Tara’s energy, good humor, strong faith, and example of how to minister to benefactor families.

Tara will primarily be working with families in the Columbus, Ohio, and Pittsburgh, PA areas. Tara, thank you for your friendship and welcome back to the Central Region!

Jason Scarlett

Welcome Michele Berente as Associate Director, Cavanaugh Council and President’s Circle

It is my pleasure to welcome Michele Berente to University Relations. Michele will serve as Associate Director on the Cavanaugh Council and President’s Circle team. Michele’s first day is Tuesday, November 1.

We are excited about the impact Michele will have on our team. Michele’s experience in non-profit fundraising, events, and accounting along with her commitment to the mission of Our Lady’s University will help advance our team’s work and culture. Michele and her family moved to South Bend four years ago to join the Notre Dame family when her husband, Nick Berente, began his role as Professor of IT, Analytics, and Operations, in the Mendoza College of Business.

Please join me in welcoming Michele to the UR team!

Mary Jane Añón

Welcome to Gift Management, Steve Horstmann!

It is my pleasure to welcome Steve Horstmann to the Gift Management team as the Gift Management Program Coordinator. Today is Steve’s first day, and his primary role is gift preparation. He will also be assisting colleagues and donors with questions through the departmental phone line and email.

Steve earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Central Michigan University. Steve comes to us with experience in sports ticketing, business sales, mortgage lending, and real estate.

Please join me in welcoming Steve to UR!

Alyssa Strbjak
Program Director, Gift Management Communications

 

Pablo Martinez and Mary Fisher Join Regional Development

Team,

It is with great excitement and enthusiasm that I share two new hires within the Regional Development team, both reporting directly to me.

First, I would like to congratulate and welcome Pablo Martinez as the new Global Advancement Program Director. In this role, Pablo will lead our fundraising efforts with our international donor population. He will carry a portfolio of international leadership prospects, as well as build a comprehensive program to identify, cultivate and steward donors around our international needs and priorities. He will also work closely with Notre Dame International and the Keough School of Global Affairs.

Pablo has been a valued member of the Development team for 11 years, leading many initiatives and programs within Annual Giving. Starting in the Phone Center, and spanning Undergraduate alumni giving, matching gifts, reunion giving and Notre Dame Day, Pablo most recently served as a Leadership Annual Giving fundraiser prior to leading the Sorin Society and a team of fundraisers this past year and a half to record years in unrestricted production. Pablo is a 2011 Notre Dame graduate.

Next, I am thrilled to welcome back to my team Mary Fisher, who will serve as the Senior Director of Operations and Strategic Initiatives. In this role, Mary will work to improve operational efficiencies throughout Regional Development. She will manage a variety of internal and external communications, as well as ongoing and emerging strategic initiatives, while serving as an advisor and thought partner to me. Additionally, she will assume responsibility for all communications, events, and activities associated with the Hesburgh Women of Impact program after a thoughtful transition with Grace Prosniewski.

Prior to joining Development as my administrative assistant in August 2010, Mary had spent two years working in employer development within the University’s Career Center. She joined the team now known as Stewardship & Donor Relations in October 2011, and has served in numerous capacities during the past 11 years, including managing the University’s endowment reporting and acknowledgment processes, planning and executing a variety of stewardship and cultivation events, and serving as the interim leader of the team for the 18-month duration of the Notre Dame Trail. Most recently, Mary partnered with frontline fundraisers to develop and execute individualized stewardship plans for the University’s top benefactors, and collaborated further with RDs to create strategic engagement touchpoints for other key donors and prospects. Mary is a 2008 Notre Dame graduate, and subsequently earned her MNA from Mendoza in 2015.

Please join me in congratulating both Pablo and Mary on their new roles!

Sara Liebscher

Welcome Ashley Moeller as a RA in Gift Planning

It is my pleasure to welcome Ashley Moeller to the Development Administration Team as a Regional Associate (RA) in Gift Planning. Ashley’s first day will be Monday, October 31.

Ashley brings a wealth of institutional knowledge from her time working with the Office of Information Technologies since 2019, in which she worked as an executive administrative coordinator. Prior to that, she was the learning and development coordinator for Bader Rutter in Wisconsin.

Ashley received her Bachelor of Arts from Wisconsin Lutheran College with a major in Communications. In her spare time, Ashley enjoys watching everything sports and Bravo, going to breweries and wine tastings, and spending time with her dog, Willa.

Please join me in welcoming Ashley!

Jen Koebel

Congratulations Kate Mueller – named next AAD for ND Research, The Graduate School and IDEA Center

Hi team,

I’m thrilled to share that Kate Mueller will be the new Academic Advancement Director for Notre Dame Research, The Graduate School, and the IDEA Center. I am grateful that Kate will be taking on these areas in times of great transition and opportunity.

In her role as AAD for the Law School, Kate developed a novel funding priority and strategy around Religious Liberty, and effectively partnered toward closing the Law School’s largest gift ever. She also helped drive over $80M of collaborative production over three record-setting years. This incredible success continued her 13 years of experience here at Notre Dame through a variety of roles, including as Managing Director of the Center for Social Science Research which collaborates on interdisciplinary research projects across all of Notre Dame’s Colleges and Schools. She will continue to serve as a Concurrent Professor of Law.

With her in-depth knowledge of the University, her experience in on-boarding new leaders, and her ongoing commitment to the mission of being a force for good in the world, she is the perfect fit for this role, especially as we bring in new leaders and develop new priorities in these three dynamic areas.

I am personally relieved to be handing these roles over to someone with great expertise. Kate will officially take on her new AAD responsibilities on Monday, November 21, but will be transitioning work over the next few weeks.

I will be posting the job description for AAD for the Law School in the coming weeks.

Thanks so much,

KO

Welcome Thomas Speranza to Gift Planning

The Gift Planning Strategic Operations team is thrilled to welcome Thomas Speranza as a Development Associate. His first day with us will be Monday, October 31st.

Thomas will work with Carolyn Hardman in the administration of our Charitable Remainder Trust and Life Insurance Programs and assist the Operations team with realized estate gifts. Thomas received his degree in Accounting from Purdue University Northwest. In his free time, he is an active member of the South Bend Chamber Singers.

Please stop by the Office of Gift Planning to welcome Thomas to UR!

RaeLee Rea
Sr Director, Gift Planning Strategic Operations

RD Position in NY Metro

Dear Colleagues,

We have posted a position for a Tier 3 or Tier 4  (depending on experience) Director, Regional Development on the New York Metro team. A sizable portion of this important portfolio will include a number of existing leadership donors who were assigned to Jesse Meyer prior to his departure in September. Applicants will be expected to have demonstrated success in their current roles and should be intent on cultivating long-term relationships with these generous members of the Notre Dame family. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to have a conversation with your manager. The posting will close at midnight on Monday, October 31.

Thank you,
Sara Liebscher

An Invitation from NDIAS: The Making of Thom Browne: A Conversation with Thom Browne and Michael Hainey

Our friends from the Notre Dame Institute for Advanced Study (NDIAS) would like our help in driving attendance to an event they are having next week, featuring ND alum Thom Browne.

 

A message from the NDIAS:

We want to pack Washington Hall for the Tuesday evening event. At the moment, we have 100 RSVPs, but want at least 150 more. We are doing another marketing push on Monday so hopefully people will respond post-fall break. Thom has an entourage of journalists, a documentarian, the CEO of Thom Browne, Inc. family and staff coming. If you could encourage students you know, colleagues, etc. to come that would be greatly appreciated.

Tickets are free but an RSVP is required. 

Welcome Bailey Smith as a DC in Regional Development

It is my pleasure to welcome Bailey Smith to the Regional Development team as a Development Coordinator (DC). Bailey’s first day will be Monday, October 24th.

Bailey brings a wealth of institutional knowledge from her more than three years with Mendoza College of Business, in which she provided support for the Department Chair and the ITAO Faculty. Prior to that, she was a construction and events coordinator for Granite Ridge Builders in Fort Wayne.

Bailey attended Manchester University and met her husband Ian there. They reside in Osceola with their two sons, Adler (4) and Reiner (1). In her spare time, if she is not playing superheroes with Adler or building blocks with Reiner, she enjoys reading and baking!

Please join me in welcoming Bailey!

Deena Chamberlin

Welcome Jessica Dennis, Sr Program Director on the For Good Administration team!

Dear Colleagues,

I am excited to share that Jessica Dennis is joining our For Good Administration team as Senior Program Director effective October 24. In this role, Jessica will serve as a key point of contact as she advises, manages For Good projects, develops and implements innovations in the initiative, liaises with OPAC on For Good gift press releases, and provides oversight of For Good events.

Jessica comes to us from the IDEA Center where she most recently served as their Financial Business Manager. Prior to that role, she worked for ESTEEM focusing on operations and student experience. Jessica is a 2013 graduate of Notre Dame with a BA in Sociology. She and her husband, Lex, live in South Bend. Jessica has a deep understanding of and commitment to the mission of the University, and we are thrilled that she is bringing her passion and skills to be a force For Good.

Please join me in welcoming Jessica to Development and UR.

Sincerely,
Michelle

Welcome Maya Sison to the Marketing Operations team!

Please welcome Maya Sison to the Marketing Operations, Annual Giving team as our Data Analyst. Her first day was Monday, October 17. Maya has ten years of data analytics experience in one of the top telecommunication companies in the Philippines. There she monitored business performance of products and transformed consumer behavior data into actionable, data-driven insights.

In her new role, Maya will build populations and segmentation for solicitations, stewardship, and other Annual Giving communications. She will additionally handle the assessment and processing of our Giving Society acknowledgements, as well as the assessment of our recurring giving data. We’re so thankful to have her on the team.

Please join me in welcoming her to Notre Dame!

Lauren Dolzan

Farewell and Best Wishes to Chau-Ly Phan!

Colleagues,

Please join me in wishing Chau-Ly all the best as she departs the Notre Dame family to start a new career working as a Salesforce Senior Business Analyst with the federal government.

Chau-Ly joined us following undergrad at Notre Dame in 2016, and those who have worked with Chau-Ly know her as a dedicated person of high character who could be relied on to deliver on every project. She is passionate about her work and has made a huge impact with her strategic mindset, insight, and creative ideas to deliver business solutions and working on the DEIU committees.

She has been a tremendous team member and an invaluable resource and we will miss her immensely! Chau-Ly’s last day will be Friday, Oct 28.

Please join us in gratitude and congratulations to Chau-Ly as we say farewell for now!

Information Technology and Services Team

Congratulations Kate Strieker on being promoted to Development Associate – Events!

UR Family,

It is my pleasure to share that Kate Strieker has been promoted to Development Associate – Events, within the Sorin Society team. In her new role, Kate will continue to offer exceptional stewardship and service to all Giving Society members, but will shift to leading all of our Giving Society and Annual Giving Events. Kate will also be the lead for our JHC, ADC, SORIN 175 and Dean’s Leadership Circle members as we continue to offer best in class stewardship to our most generous annual benefactors.

In the short time that Kate has joined our team, she has proved an invaluable team member – from jumping into Notre Dame Day in her first week, to overtaking projects and tasks outside of her role – Kate’s promotion is well deserved. I am excited that many of you will continue to work more closely with Kate in her new role. Coming off the back of running the Chicago marathon no less, please join me in congratulating Kate!

Many thanks!

Pablo

Welcome Tucker Kable to the Data and Strategic Analytics team!

Dear Colleagues,

I am thrilled to announce that Tucker Kable will be joining the Data and Strategic Analytics Reporting team as a Business Intelligence Professional starting November 1st. Tucker will focus on Business Object Reporting and new Tableau Dashboards for the UR Development Department.

Tucker has been with the University of Notre Dame since 2016 in the Office of Public Affairs and Communications (OPAC). In his previous OPAC position as a Data Scientist, he supported Notre Dame’s central communications department with regular and ad hoc Tableau reporting for digital asset performance data including web traffic, media monitoring, email, and social media. He provided for-hire analytics support to on campus partners including Notre Dame Graduate School, College of Science, President’s Office, Notre Dame Athletics, and Human Resources.

We are grateful that Tucker has chosen to join us and excited about the skills he will bring to our team.

Please join me in welcoming Tucker to the Development Department!

Wayne Harpenau

Director, Data and Strategic Analytics

Farewell and Best Wishes to Heather Sadrzadeh

Dear UR Team –

Please join me in wishing Heather Sadrzadeh all the best as she departs from the NDAA to focus on her family.

Heather has enthusiastically served the volunteer leaders of the Affinity Groups since October 2018. I am deeply grateful for her service and know she will be missed by so many. Heather’s creative ideas, unfailing optimism, and infectious positivity were some of her hallmarks. She brought many talents to this role including an amazing eye for design and her photography skills which served to elevate the visual brand of the affinity groups. Most of all, Heather’s exuberance, humor, and deep care for individuals led to strong bonds with external constituents and staff alike.

Heather’s last day will be Friday, October 7th. We will be in touch regarding what I imagine will be a doughnut-themed going away party, but for now, please take a moment to wish her the best as she wraps up her work with us.

Best,

Angeline

Welcome Brigid Jackson!

Dear Team,

I’m excited to announce that Brigid Jackson will become our new Eck Visitors Center Customer Service Representative starting October 12th. As many of you know, Brigid worked with us in the past as part of our EVC and Reunion staff.

Brigid earned her Bachelor of Science in General Business from Indiana University South Bend. In her free time she enjoys traveling, cooking(especially Italian recipes), anything Disney, her dog Toby, and her big family (She is Erin Thornton’s sister).

Please join me in welcoming Brigid to the team.

Amanda

Congratulations Samantha Checkley!

Dear UR,

It is our distinct pleasure to announce the promotion of Samantha Checkley to Assistant Program Director (APD) reporting to Lori Tinkey, effective October 3, 2022. In her new role on the DC Leadership Team, Samantha will transition to partnerships with Senior Regional Directors (SRDs — Ryan Brennan and Jason Scarlett) and members of the Regional SRD Team as well as contribute to overarching Regional Development projects. Samantha joined Development last year following 6 years of ND campus experience in management and events. Samantha quickly excelled on the DC Team, in partnerships with 3 RDs, and in work within Gift Planning. We are grateful to benefit from her talents in strategic analytics, planning, and presentation. Congratulations, Samantha!

If you have any questions about Samantha’s transitional responsibilities or new role, please feel free to contact us.

Sincerely,
Lori and Deena

Announcing our new NDAA Family Member – Kelly Woods

UR Team –

On Monday, October 3, we are welcoming a new member to the NDAA family.

Kelly Woods comes to the NDAA after earning a Master of Arts in Linguistics from BYU where she also worked as a Web Developer and a Graduate Research Assistant. She also completed her undergraduate work at BYU, earning a degree in Psychology – I guess that makes her a “Double Cougar”. Kelly brings a wealth of technical knowledge and an innate curiosity driven by her previous work in research areas.

Not only will she be new to the University, but Kelly is coming to us all the way from Oklahoma City. And, having spent years in Utah, she’s an avid fan of outdoor activities and is looking forward to exploring her new home. She’s also a huge sports fan, and assures us that outside of Saturday October 8, she will be cheering for the Irish.

Kelly will be joining the NDAA-IT team as our new Systems Specialist and putting her French speaking skills to good use as she focuses on all things myNotreDame, its ongoing development, and relationship with Hivebrite.

Please join me in welcoming Kelly to the NDAA!

John

Welcome Michelle McDaniel to the Marketing Operations team!

Please welcome Michelle McDaniel to the Marketing Operations, Annual Giving team as our Content Marketing Specialist. Her first day was this week, Monday, September 26.

Michelle was previously a Content Writer for RTA Outdoor Living and has 10+ years of multimedia journalism experience. She will be writing and producing fund and Giving Society digital communications as well as managing digital executions such as email creation and deployment for the Annual Giving team.

Michelle comes to us from the Dallas, Texas area. Please join me in giving her a big, warm, South Bend welcome!

Lauren Dolzan

Thank you and Farewell to Kilian Vidourek

University Relations Team – With an incredible amount of gratitude for his videography and design services, I’m writing to you today to share the news that Kilian Vidourek will be leaving the Storytelling & Engagement Team. Over the past year, Kilian has dazzled us with his keen camera skills, his efficiency to turn around projects incredibly quickly, and his ability to rock a pair of pants that show off his ankles.

The Georgia native, known in local DJ circles as “DOGSNAKE”, has accepted a position at 2K Games in California as a Video Editor, where he will be responsible for making video game trailers and marketing materials. He is grateful that his current position has taught him the skills necessary to take this next step in his professional career out on the West Coast as a videographer and storyteller. In Kilian’s words, “I am going to miss all of the wonderfully unique people I have had the chance to know and work with as well as the culture of family here that made me feel like I belong. Thank you everyone!”

Kilian’s last day in office will be Friday, September 30. Please join me in echoing his common sentiment of “What’s poppin’?” and say farewell to our incredible colleague.

Jim Gosz

Farewell and Thank You to Chris Palmquist

UR team –

With deep regret but also immense gratitude, please join me in wishing Chris Palmquist farewell as he embarks on a new career in Minneapolis, MN. Chris and his wonderful wife Dagny are returning to the Twin Cities where they lived before Chris joined the NDAA family in 2019.

Those who have worked with him know Chris as a person of high character who could be relied on to deliver on every project, contribute a witty Q&A at Football Fridays, and manage the MarCom department through the personnel changes of 2021 while leading by example for the new employees who joined the team. Since I came on board before Christmas, he has been an invaluable resource and steady hand. He will be terribly missed.

Chris’ last day will be September 23, 2022. As we determine how to best move forward, I will run point on the takeover and transition of his duties before a new hire comes on board.

Thank you Chris!

Best,
Digger

Best Wishes, Gratitude, and Congratulations to Erin Thornton

Team,

Some emails are harder to write than others. This is one of those emails. I’m writing to you today to share the news that our dear friend and trusted colleague Erin Thornton has been offered an amazing opportunity to advance her career at Notre Dame. Erin has been hired to join Anne Griffith’s team as the new Advisor to the Vice President of University Enterprises and Events. As Advisor, Erin will provide advice and insight to Anne on all aspects of UEE’s strategic operations and will manage special projects including the division’s strategic planning process. Additionally, Erin will serve as a liaison to various academic and administrative units, manage strategic University relationships, and lead the division’s diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Since she arrived at the NDAA from Disney Cruise Lines in 2013, Erin has made a huge impact on countless alumni and friends through her outstanding leadership of our special events. More than that, however, Erin’s care for her colleagues, and quick wit have made our office community a better place. While we are all happy for Erin, Mark, Declan, and Beatrice, it will be bittersweet to not work side by side with Erin in the future.

Erin’s last day at the NDAA will be Oct. 26 and she will begin her new role at UEE on Oct. 31.

More details to come on Erin’s going away party but for now, please join me in congratulating Erin!

Best,

Mike

Emma Capannari to join Stewardship & Donor Relations – Congratulations!

Dear Colleagues,

Please join us in welcoming Emma Capannari to her new role of Assistant Director, Donor Relations Strategies on the Stewardship & Donor Relations team!

Emma’s Notre Dame story began in 2018 when she joined the DC Team directly after her college graduation. The broader Regional Development team benefited immediately from her Communications and Journalism education and experience, and she soon demonstrated a true talent for strategy and project management. When the Assistant Program Director position was created in the DC Team in 2021, Emma was promoted to the role. Emma has been an excellent partner in working directly with SRD leadership, partnering with RDs, identifying value-add opportunities for the DC Team, and collaborating with me on large-scale projects. In addition, she played a considerable role in optimizing the Chicago office operations, maintaining “dual citizenship” in Chicago and Eddy Street to meet the business needs of all colleagues. Well done, Emma! It has been a pleasure to work with her and she will be missed throughout the team.

In her new role, Emma will partner closely with a portfolio of regional directors to identify and share best practices in stewardship and develop individualized stewardship plans for some of the University’s top benefactors. She will also help to fulfill these plans by designing and executing meaningful communications, recognition pieces, and other personalized touches for key donors. A graduate of Indiana University, Emma brings a wealth of knowledge to the team from her years in Regional Development Administration, and the Stewardship & Donor Relations team is thrilled to welcome her aboard! She will transition to her new role on Monday, October 3.

Congratulations, Emma!

Lori Tinkey and Mary Fisher

Fall Learning Opportunities Across Campus

A wide range of fall learning programs were recently added to Endeavor and published on the Human Resources website. Search by category and register for upcoming learning sessions.

Featured Programs-

 

Explore all courses today

Farewell and Best Wishes to Kevin McMannis

With gratitude for over four years of dedication, we say farewell to Kevin McMannis as he departs from his role as Senior Consultant in Prospect Development & Strategy. Kevin’s next step is a fantastic opportunity leading prospect management efforts at St. Ignatius School. Through the challenges of COVID and integration of new leadership, Kevin provided a continuity of knowledge and experience that will serve our team well into the future. His work on our prospecting and annual planning processes, in particular, have set the Prospect Management team up for success in our goal of delivering more timely, consistent insight and deliverables to the regions.

Kevin will be wrapping up his responsibilities over the next few days as he prepares to transition to his new role. Cindy Karpovs has graciously agreed to assume consultant responsibilities for the Illinois region, so please contact her or me with any questions related to Kevin’s work.

As you may know, we are growing our team and have a posting for a new consultant. With Kevin’s departure, we now have a second consultant opportunity. We are grateful for any referrals you might be able to provide in helping us fill two important roles on our team.

Thanks,
Jonathan Retartha

Welcome to the East Coast Team, Jordy Shoemaker!

It is my honor and pleasure to welcome our newest Regional Director, Georgiana “Jordy” Shoemaker, to the East Coast.

Jordy comes to us from Boston Medical Center where she served as an ICU Nurse for the last 7 years. Jordy earned her degree from the College of Arts and Letters(Psychology). She was a 3X monogram winner and a 3X Big East All Academic recipient as apart of the Irish Women’s Lacrosse team. Jordy is beyond excited to come home and serve Our Lady’s Mission!!

Please join me in welcoming Jordy to our team!

Thanks,
George

Welcome Tarrez Clark to NDAA-IT!

Dear UR Team –

On Monday, September 19, we are welcoming a new member to the NDAA family.

Tarrez Clark comes to the NDAA after spending the last 10 years within University Libraries, most recently in Circulation Services. She believes strongly in giving back and providing a positive work environment as shown through her work with the University’s Staff Advisory Council. Tarrez earned her Bachelor’s Degree in English with a minor in African-American studies from Indiana University South Bend. She joins the NDAA-IT team as our new Applications Support Associate and will be focusing on supporting our alumni using myNotreDame, Google, and more.

Please join me in welcoming Tarrez to UR!

John Prette

Jay McAllister to join Northwest Region – Congratulations!

Dear Colleagues,

Please join us in congratulating Jay McAllister on his new role of Regional Director for the Northwest Regional Team; Jay will be working with alumni, parents, and friends in the Bay Area.

Jay joined the Academic Advancement team in 2016, originally working with the Office of Research before joining the Keough School of Global Affairs as their AAD, working to support and advocate for ND’s first new college or school in a century. During his time as an AAD, he worked closely with more than 60 fundraisers on gifts totaling in excess of $149m, including the largest gift for graduate fellowships in the university’s history.

He will be much missed by the AAD team, especially his dry sense of humor, his competitive nature, and his willingness to “unsubsubscribe” from team emails.

Despite his Pittsburgh roots, the Northwest team is thrilled to welcome Jay to our ‘We the North’ squad, and excited to leverage his institutional knowledge and unique perspective from his time as an AAD. Jay’s passion for the advancement of Notre Dame’s mission, his energy and drive, and his positive outlook will help us continue to unlock the grace of giving among our constituents.

Jay will be moving into his new role beginning on Monday, September 19th, but will be transitioning between roles through early October. Please feel free to reach out to Katy with any questions or needs concerning the Keough School.

Katy Orenchuk and Sean Sharpe

Welcome to the Central Region Team, Javonte Lipsey!

It is my honor and pleasure to welcome Javonte Lipsey to the Central Region team as a Regional Director.  Javonte joins us after completing his PhD in Sports Management at the Ohio State University.  Javonte is originally from Kalamazoo, Michigan, and ran the 400 M hurdles at the University of North Carolina (although he is not as fast as Bill Ribera).  Javonte has a 1-year old puppy named Nala who has joined him in South Bend.  Javonte is honored to join the Notre Dame family and the Central Region team.

Welcome, Javonte!

Jason Scarlett

Information Technology and Services Welcomes Patrick Rader

Information Technology and Services is happy to announce that Patrick Rader will be joining the Integration Services team.

Patrick is joining us as a Systems Integration Professional starting September 6th. Patrick will start with a focus on the Ascend project helping lead the migration of our data from CrmND to Ascend. Patrick has been with Notre Dame since 2009 working in Hesburgh Libraries. His previous position as Library Application Management and Integration Specialist leads well into the work we do on our integration team. Prior to that, he was the Media Digitization Production Coordinator overseeing daily operations of media digitization and streaming services.

We are grateful that Patrick has chosen to join us and excited about the skills he is adding to our team. Thank you for your help in supporting Patrick to have a successful experience with us in University Relations.

Andrew Yocum

Gratitude and Best Wishes to Deana Northern

Please join me in wishing Deana Northern farewell and good luck as she leaves the University at the end of this month to take on a new opportunity in Dayton, OH.  Deana’s last official working day will be Friday, 9/02.

In 2013, she started her career at Notre Dame under the fractional support group serving a variety of campus partners, including ACE, the Graduate School, Notre Dame Press, and ASSA. In 2015 she moved to an embedded role for Student Affairs and RecSports.  During that time, she was able to focus on more projects such as the implementation of Irish1Card, the RecSports move to Duncan Student Center along with leading the project to move the RecSports Fusion server to an AWS cloud solution. She also earned a Lean Sigma Six Green Belt for a project to revamp RecSports’ faculty access processes and procedures.  Currently, she is involved in various OIT groups and was chosen to be part of the MOR All Leads Program.

Deana joined the NDAA Team in early 2020 and brought a focus on improving our internal IT processes, including the implementation of Service Now for our myND Support Team, organizing and tracking our equipment purchases, and always ensuring that our IT infrastructure runs seamlessly whether handling payments at Football Fridays, automating the NDAA Board election, or processing Reunion check-in.  And most importantly, Deana built a knowledge base allowing us to repeat these successes in the future.

Deana’s dedication to the NDAA, her past campus partners, OIT, and University as a whole is outstanding, and she will definitely be missed.  Please join me in thanking Deana for her 10 years of dedication to the University and wishing her well in her future endeavors.

– John Prette

Farewell and best wishes to Karen Deak

It is with mixed emotions that I share the news of the departure of Karen Deak. Her last day in the office will be August 31st.

Karen has served as the AAD for Research, the Graduate School, and the IDEA Center since spring of 2019. She has been a valued colleague, a champion for her causes, and a great teammate. We will miss her insight and humor.

Karen has accepted a position at Cooley, LLP as their IP Lead Patent Formalities Specialist. In this position, she’ll use her background as a patent agent to lead a growing team which is responsible for all of the supporting documentation for clients’ patent applications.

Please join me in saying farewell to Karen and congratulating her on this new opportunity. She and John (and Ziggi!) will continue to reside in Dunne Hall and be here on ND’s campus.

Congratulations and Best Wishes to Tara Gilchrist

Friends and Colleagues,

It is with mixed emotions that I announce Tara Gilchrist has accepted a new position within Human Resources here at Notre Dame. Tara has served University Relations over the past several years dedicating her time to finding and hiring the best talent. Because of her efforts, the division has grown by leaps and bounds and we are extremely grateful for her time spent in Development.

Tara will transition to her new role on August 29th but continue to keep our recruiting pipeline open until we are able to find her replacement. You may reach out directly to Adria Logan for any questions in the interim.

Please join me in congratulating Tara on her new role.

Sincerely,
Adria

Farewell and Congrats, Jesse Meyer

Friends and colleagues,

Jesse Meyer will be leaving Notre Dame to accept the role of Chief Development Officer for St. Ignatius College Prep in Chicago, where he will lead the school’s fundraising efforts.

Jesse has served Notre Dame for nearly 6 years, first as Regional Director in the West Region, as Senior Director in Illinois and, most recently, as Regional Director on the New York Metro team. His passion for the work was demonstrated through the relationships he built with his benefactors and in the contributions he made to the team, including playing a key role in the growth of BATPA and other important initiatives.

Jesse’s last day will be Tuesday, September 6. Please join me in congratulating him on his new opportunity.

All the best,
Ryan

Welcome back Jonathan Retartha as the Director of Prospect Development and Strategy

The Prospect Research and Strategy is thrilled that Jonathan Retartha has joined us as the Director of Prospect Development and Strategy, leading the team of Prospect Management Consultants (Cindy Karpovs, Katie O’Friel, Kevin McMannis, Meghan Walsh, and Brooke Wenzel). Once he is up to speed, he will also transition to directly supporting the Athletics region and the UR Executives with their portfolios.

Jonathan Retartha returns to the Development team after four years as Director of Housing in Residential Life. Jonathan started his Notre Dame career in Development as Assistant Director and then Donor Experience Manager on the Annual Giving team, after three years at Fox Corporation.

As Director of Housing, Jonathan’s team managed all assignments, student services, and logistics across the University’s 32 residence halls, including the emergency shutdown and staged reopening of the halls in 2020. Jonathan also managed the University’s residential master plan, extending the occupancy strategic roadmap and organizing full-year renovations in Morrissey, Dillon, Sorin, and Alumni halls, while acting on the design team for Baumer, Johnson Family, and the new men’s residence hall under construction on east quad.

He has earned a B.A. and M.B.A. from Notre Dame, as well as an M.A. from NYU’s Skirball Center for New Media. Please join us in welcoming Jonathan back to University Relations!

Joining the Notre Dame Toastmasters Club

Please consider this invitation from Laura Walker to join the Notre Dame Toastmasters club.

As you are meeting with your teams and considering professional development options available, a great option at Notre Dame to build communication and leadership skills is through the Notre Dame Toastmasters club. Notre Dame Toastmasters offers a safe and supportive environment for those looking to communicate and lead with confidence. Meetings are held virtually and in person weekly on Tuesdays at 4:30 and allow members an ongoing platform to work on both prepared speeches and impromptu speaking skills.

Each meeting is structured to build one’s acumen on:
– Conducting a meeting in a timely and professional manner
– Managing the use of filler words or disfluencies when speaking
– Awareness of gestures and use of body language
– Eye contact
– Vocal variety
– Listening and giving constructive feedback
– Opportunities to lead on special projects

In addition, Notre Dame Toastmasters is fun! Members meet and learn from colleagues across campus on a variety of topics that grow one as a person.

To learn more about the club, visit their website or contact toastmasters@nd.edu. Our very own Laura Walker currently serves as on the board for the Notre Dame Toastmasters club so you can also reach out to her with questions!

Posted in Uncategorized

Katy Orenchuk to serve as Academic Advancement Senior Director

It is with excitement for our team and the University to announce that Katy Orenchuk will serve in the role of Academic Advancement Senior Director, effective July 25th. Katy joined University Relations in the spring of 2019 in the newly created role of AAD for Arts and Architecture. In this role she has cultivated a wide range of relationships, worked effectively to secure support for key projects, and instituted new initiatives to support the arts on campus, including the recently created Notre Dame Arts Council. She has since added the Libraries to her portfolio.

Prior to her role at Notre Dame, Katy spent 13 years as a fundraiser in Washington DC and Chicago. She has her BA in history and political science from the University of Notre Dame, and obtained her MA in Arts Administration from the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs at Indiana University in 2006. She became certified as a Fund Raising Executive in 2018.

We are grateful that Katy will bring her unwavering commitment to the mission of our Lady’s University and her deep knowledge of and experience with fundraising to this leadership role.

Katy will continue to be located at Eddy St. and will continue to be the first point of contact for the arts and architecture until she hires her successor.

Please join me in congratulating Katy.

Best,

Michelle

Congrats to Sean Cuneo, our new Senior Digital Campaign Specialist!

Please join me in congratulating Sean Cuneo on his new role as the Senior Digital Campaign Specialist on the Marketing Operations team in Annual Giving. We are thrilled for Sean to step into this role and lead our team of two Content Marketing Specialists.

Sean joined the Development team in January 2022 as a Content Marketing Specialist and has excelled in this role, leading reporting and testing, and digging into email solutions. Prior to his position with Annual Giving, he was the Director of Marketing at Mercyhurst University. In Sean’s first week, he has been charged with creating and managing our Giving Society events registration platform and the exploration of journeys and automation for our email campaigns. We’re excited for all Sean will do with and for our team.

Please join me in congratulating Sean on his promotion!

Lauren Dolzan

Congratulations to Indi Jackson! RD covering South Florida in the Southern Region

Dear everyone,

Please join me in congratulating Indi Jackson on her promotion to Regional Director of Development as the newest member of the Southern Region covering South Florida. We are thrilled for Indi to officially join the Southern Region as an RD after being our AGSM leadership giving team liaison for the past year.

Indi joined the Development team in May 2021 as an Associate Director of Leadership Annual Giving and has excelled in this role, surpassing her FY22 goal by 14% and generating over $3M in unrestricted revenue. Prior to her position with Annual Giving, Indi was an Associate Producer at Fighting Irish Media, helping produce award winning content across 26 sports, including content aired on NBC. She also showcased her passion for storytelling in hosting the “Brave Voices” podcast, where she interviewed other Black Notre Dame Student Athletes about race in their life, aiming to ease the tension around the discussion of race.

Indi graduated from Notre Dame in 2017 with a BA in Film, Television and Theater and a minor in Computer Digital Technologies. She is also a Track and Field Monogram winner and served as a two time captain for the team.

I’m confident that Indi’s competitive spirit, desire to help others and passion for storytelling will lead her to continued success as a Regional Director of Development. Please join me in congratulating Indi on her promotion and welcoming her to the Southern Region!

Best,
Anne

Welcome Eleanor Hanson – NDAA Marketing & Communications Coordinator!

Dear UR team,

On Tuesday, July 5, we are welcoming two new members to the NDAA family, Allie Griffith and Eleanor Hanson.

Eleanor Hanson SMC ’22 will be joining the Alumni Association as the Coordinator of the Marketing & Communications department. Eleanor graduated in May from St. Mary’s with a degree in Communications and a concentration in Public Relations and Advertising while serving as Student Body President. Her mother is a 1994 graduate of St. Mary’s, and her father is a 1995 graduate of Notre Dame. The Hanson family has lived in Scottsdale, Arizona, rural Georgia, and Toronto, Canada and her hobbies include riding horses, reading, and spending time outdoors. In her new role, Eleanor will coordinate all MarCom efforts, including the areas of budgets, finance, project management, affinity programs, social media, young alumni, storytelling, and content creation.

Please join me in welcoming Eleanor to the NDAA.

Best,

Digger

Welcome Allie Griffith – Alumni Marketing Writer and Editorial Program Manager

Dear UR Team,

I am excited to announce that Allie Griffith ’17, ’19 M.Ed. will be joining the Alumni Association on July 5 as Writer and Editorial Program Manager. Allie is coming to us from Cathedral High School in Indianapolis, where she taught literature and composition and was the head girls cross country coach. Previously, she taught literature at Providence Cristo Rey High School in Indianapolis while completing the ACE program here at ND.

As a student at Notre Dame, Allie majored in English and American Studies with a minor in creative writing. She was recognized as the Most Outstanding graduating senior in each of her majors, and was also recipient of the 2017 Pasquerilla West Spirit Award for exemplifying “the spirit of Notre Dame in social, recreational, residential, service, and religious activities that promote the welfare of the University and extended communities.” In January, Allie earned an honorable mention in this year’s Notre Dame Magazine Young Alumni Essay Contest for her piece “The Storage Closet.”

In her new position, Allie will manage We Are ND and play a key role in the expansion of our storytelling efforts. She will also oversee Echoes, serve as lead copywriter for the association, and work with ND Magazine and class secretaries on the quarterly Class Notes process.

Please join me in welcoming Allie to the NDAA and UR!

Cheers,
Joanne

Welcome, Kelly Judd!

Friends and Colleagues,

I am thrilled to announce that Kelly Judd will join our University Relations team as Regional Director in the New York Metro region, beginning this Wednesday, June 29.

Kelly is both a Notre Dame Law School alumna, graduating cum laude and serving for two years as an assistant rector in Farley Hall, and proud mother of two, including a rising Notre Dame junior. She is moving to South Bend from New York where she has most recently served for the past several years as a prosecutor in the Suffolk County Traffic and Parking Agency.

Please join me in welcoming Kelly to our team!

All the best,
Ryan

Farewell and Thank You to Matt Rombalski

Dear Colleagues,

I want to share that Matt Rombalski’s last day with the gift management team will be July 15. Matt has accepted a new position in Boston and we are so excited for him but we will greatly miss him. We are very grateful for Matt’s many contributions to our team, including his expert DocuSign skills that carried us through the pandemic as we pivoted to only electronic signatures for our gift agreements and many other University documents. Matt has accepted a new position – Assistant Director of Major Gifts at Northeastern University. He is excited and nervous to take on frontline fundraising but told me that his time at Notre Dame, and his relationships with all of you, built a strong foundation for his new role. Please join me in congratulating Matt on his new adventure and wishing him success in this next chapter in his life and career!

After July 15, please send any questions regarding DocuSign to Katherine Cinninger. I can help with these requests until Matt’s replacement is in place.

Thank you,

Katherine

NDAA IT Team Announcement – Ria Kapluck

UR Team –

It is with a heavy heart that I write to let you know that Ria Kapluck will be leaving NDAA in mid-August to begin the next chapter in her career. Those who know Ria, understand what a loss this is for us, and those who do not know Ria – who am I kidding; everyone knows Ria!

Ria joined us in the Alumni Association back in 2014 as a myNotreDame Support Coordinator. Through the years she grew through multiple roles, before becoming our current Interactive Specialist in early 2022, having been instrumental in the successful migration of myNotreDame to Hivebrite. She led reporting efforts, supported the NDAA Board, assisted with every NDAA event, and even emceed the annual Christmas Party. Her servant leader approach, extreme attention to detail, and unwillingness to accept less than perfect solutions fostered wonderful relationships with our Clubs and Affinity Groups, the NDAA Board, and of course all of us.

While Ria will still be with us for two more months, please take a moment to wish her the best as she wraps up her work with us and plans her next steps.

John

Welcome Matt Greene, Clubs Program Manager

Dear colleagues,

I’m thrilled to share that we have hired Matt Greene ’16 for the role of Clubs Program Manager. Matt‘s career has been in Admissions – working at his high school alma mater in Detroit, then at Notre Dame, and most recently at Holy Cross College. During his time with Notre Dame Admissions, he worked closely with ND club leaders to host college fairs, spoke with prospective students and their families, and helped students navigate the admissions process. Matt graduated from Notre Dame in 2016 and was a proud member of the Band and Keough Hall Council. In his free time, he writes blogs/articles for One Foot Down and enjoys checking out local breweries.

Please join me in welcoming Matt as he begins today, May 2.

Sincerely,

Abbey

Congratulations, Helen Rajkumar!

Colleagues,

It is with great excitement that I share that Helen Rajkumar has been promoted to Senior Office Coordinator for the 405 Main office. In this important role, Helen will serve as the primary receptionist and first point of contact for the Office of the Vice President for University Relations and the Office of the Vice President for Public Affairs and Communications and will manage the overall operations of the office suite.

A trusted and valued colleague, Helen has served Our Lady’s University since 2015, first as the Eck Visitors Center Customer Service Representative and most recently as the Office Services Coordinator for the Notre Dame Alumni Association. Before joining Notre Dame, Helen worked at Clay United Methodist Church and the Samaritan Counselling Center.

Originally from India, Helen has been a Michiana resident for 27 years. Helen, along with her husband, and two children reside in Granger. In her free time, Helen enjoys acrylic painting, gardening, reading, and cooking.

Helen’s first day in 405 Main will be Monday, May 9. Please join me in thanking and congratulating Helen for taking on this new role in service to Notre Dame.

My best,

Gavin

New Assoc. Dir. for Law & Graduate Business Annual Giving, Anna McKeever

Colleagues,

Today I write with bittersweet news, as Abbie Spica will be transitioning from her current role and relocating to Grand Rapids, Michigan preceding her wedding this summer. Abbie was an incredible teammate and representative of the University and we will miss her dearly. Abbie’s last day on the Annual Giving Team was last Thursday, April 14th.

While we are sad to see Abbie go, we hope to make this transition smooth, and have exciting news to share! We would like to introduce you to Anna McKeever, who will be our new Associate Director for Law and Graduate Business Annual Giving. Anna comes to us from University HR where she served as the HR Communication Program Director. Anna is a double domer, having earned both her MBA and her Bachelor’s degree from Notre Dame. I am confident that Anna will be a fantastic addition to our team. She will officially begin in this role on May 9, 2022. Please join me in welcoming Anna!

In the interim, please feel free to contact me with any questions relating to the Order of St. Thomas More, or the O’Hara Society.

Best,
Kasey O’Connor

Welcome, Kevin Vaughn!

We are thrilled to announce that Kevin Vaughn has joined University Relations as the Corporate and Foundation Relations Research Analyst. For the first time, this position will be a member of the Prospect and Research Strategy team, though Kevin will be embedded in Corporate and Foundation Relations and fully dedicated to supporting their work. We anticipate a number of synergies will stem from Kevin’s presence on both teams.

Kevin comes to the Department of Development after almost five years in Graduate Enrollment Management. Previous roles include Graduate Studies Coordinator in the Department of History and, most recently, Assistant Director for Doctoral Studies at the Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies. Kevin holds graduate degrees in organ and sacred music, including the Doctor of Music Arts in organ performance, from Notre Dame and serves as Director of Music and Organist at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in South Bend and accompanist for the South Bend Chamber Singers. Organists are good with details and data, so he’s looking forward to working in University Relations as a research analyst.

Please join us in welcoming Kevin to the division!

Andrea Swanagan and Amanda Retartha

Welcome Kate Strieker to the Sorin Society Team

Dear Colleagues,

It is my pleasure to welcome Kate Strieker to the Sorin Society team in Annual Giving as the new Giving Society Service Coordinator. Kate’s first day will be Tuesday, April 19th, and we are excited to welcome her to the team the week of Notre Dame Day!

Kate is joining the OnwardND team after serving as the client service associate at a boutique wealth management firm in the Chicago area for the last year. A graduate of Wheaton College, Kate also has a passion for the Young Life mission which is an organization she worked for following graduation. We are excited that Kate will bring with her a contagious enthusiasm for the Notre Dame mission and through her leadership, join us in serving our students through the thoughtful engagement of our giving society members.

In her free time, Kate enjoys the outdoors – either running, walking, or playing yard games – meaning she is sure to enjoy campus in the coming months! Also, and most importantly, congratulations are in order as Kate’s relocation to the South Bend area is coupled with the news of her engagement to Wynn Brown, a Notre Dame graduate, and former UR intern! Welcome, again, Kate!

With gratitude,
Pablo

Best Wishes to Shayne Murphy

Colleagues,

I write today with bittersweet news. Our wonderful colleague, Shayne Murphy, has accepted an exciting position as VP of Operations with Tosca managing 19 plants and over 1,000 employees.

It has been my great privilege to work alongside Shayne as a member of the East Coast team. During his time with our team, Shayne was disciplined and dedicated to the families he’s served in the DC/Baltimore area and we are grateful for his efforts and commitment to furthering Our Lady’s University over the past 2.5 years.

I know I speak on behalf of the entire team when I share he will be deeply missed. Due to the start date of his new position, Shayne’s last day with UR was yesterday. I encourage you to reach out to Shayne with your well wishes.

Thank you,
George

Welcome, Congratulations, and Updates to the Organizational Strategy Team

We’ve got some new things cooking over in the team formerly known as Resource Strategy and Administration. First, our new name: Organizational Strategy! Here, you will find a team of dedicated people, working with you to get to Yes! We’ll partner with you to manage your operating budget, get your benefactors the best tickets to football (and other events), find you an office space, and help you recruit wildly talented team members!

It is in this final charge that we have big news to share. Please join me in welcoming Adria Logan as our first-ever Associate Director of Resource Operations and Strategy. Beginning Monday, April 11, Adria will lead our Talent Acquisition team by partnering with managers to find the best talent, clarifying and streamlining our hiring process, and analyzing our hiring/people data to position UR best to reach our goals.

Adria earned a Master of Public Administration degree from Western Michigan University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Grand Valley State University. Adria joins us after a decade of service at Goshen Health where she gained a wealth of experiences through roles as Physician Recruiter, process improvement Coach, Business Manager, and most recently, Director of Revenue Cycle. In our reorganized team, Tara Gilchrist, Sheri Egendoerfer, and Nancy Cole will report directly to Adria.

Adria’s new “home” is 1108 Grace Hall, so please feel free to stop by or drop her a note (alogan3@nd.edu) of welcome!

In addition to this change, a huge congratulations is in order for Sheri Egendoerfer. Sheri has been promoted to Talent Acquisition Associate. In this role, Sheri is taking on additional consulting responsibilities for more roles. Go Sheri!

Tara Gilchrist, Sr. Talent Acquisition Consultant, will spearhead the ever-important sourcing for development positions. Nancy Cole will continue to provide critical coordination for the talent acquisition team as well as manage the assignment of office space and support a variety of financial and position management matters.

Please visit us in 11S Grace Hall! We’d love to see you!

Kathryn Valenti
Sr. Director of Organizational Strategy

Congratulations Angel Hess!

Dear UR,

Please join us in celebrating Angel Hess as she joins the DC Team! Angel is transitioning to the Regional Associate (RA) role from Senior Coordinator for Athletics Advancement, a position she has fulfilled since 2018. Angel will remain embedded in Athletics Advancement. This will be her fifth role since she began her Notre Dame career in Annual Giving in 2012. Prior to joining the University, Angel worked for the Penn-Harris-Madison and Mishawaka schools in Human Resources for many years. Angel enjoys spending time with her family (which is growing as both her son and daughter are getting married in the coming months), gardening, and you can catch her walking around the ND lakes at noontime!

Lori

New Addition to the NDAA MarCom Team: Molly Lenaburg

I’m thrilled to announce that Molly Lenaburg has accepted our offer to join the Notre Dame Alumni Association as the new Affinity Marketing Program Director. She succeeds the venerable Anne Faherty, who recently stepped away to embark on her well-earned retirement. Molly is a native of Elkhart, IN and graduated from the University of Southern Indiana in 2014. She brings with her a passion for marketing and, as a lifelong fan, a passion for Notre Dame. Her previous marketing experiences include the shoe industry, boat manufacturing, residential construction, and a marketing agency. When she isn’t working, Molly enjoys spending time with her beagle pup Benji, fiancé Alex, family and friends, crafting, and wedding planning.

Molly’s first day with us will be Monday, March 28, 2022. Please join me in welcoming Molly to the family!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollylenaburg/

Thank you,

Digger

Best Wishes to Megan DePrimio-Faust

Dear Colleagues,

I write today with bittersweet news. I am delighted to share that our wonderful colleague, Megan DePrimio-Faust, has accepted a position as Program Director for Engagement and Policy Operations with Notre Dame Athletics.

It has been my great privilege to work alongside Megan during my time with the Stewardship and Donor Relations team. Megan is organized, dedicated, deadline-focused, and excellent at managing the details for large-scale undertakings. Megan has excelled in leading many of the Capital Public Recognition projects large and small over her past 5.5 years in Development and has been instrumental in shaping recognition and plaque standards. She has also contributed to other areas of Stewardship including Fr. John and Lou Nanni Acknowledgements and Athletics Endowment Reports. Additionally, she has worked diligently to lead our team towards the completion of a University-wide audit of public recognition.

I know I speak on behalf of the entire team when I share she will be deeply missed. However, her absence on our team will soften knowing that she is headed back to a role that will allow her to work each day using her passion for Athletics. Megan’s last day will be April 1. Please join me in congratulating Megan on this new chapter.

The Stewardship & Donor Relations team will work diligently to post Megan’s position. If you are interested in working with the Donor Recognition team, please reach out to me directly.

All My Best,
Jessica

Congratulations and Best Wishes to Brian Powell

UR Team-

It is with great excitement for our talented friend and colleague, Brian Powell, (and mixed emotions from our team) that I share the news that he will be leaving Notre Dame to start a new role as Senior Director for National Leadership & Planned Giving at Make a Wish America. Brian’s last day with Notre Dame will be Monday, March 7, and shortly after he will begin his new role, which is remote based. We are so glad that the Powell Family (including Brian’s wife, Katie, and three adorable kids, Cooper, Brooks, & Fitz) will remain in South Bend, and that Katie will continue to be the Associate Head Coach of ND Women’s Lacrosse.

Over the last 9 years, Brian’s leadership, creativity, and teamwork have been critical to the success and growth of the Athletics Advancement team, the Rockne Athletics Fund, the Monogram Club, and the Annual Giving team. Brian’s impact will be felt by generations of Notre Dame student-athletes for decades to come. We are so grateful for his hard work, and are happy that a special cause like Make a Wish is gaining such a wonderful teammate and person.

Please find a message from Brian below:
“To each one of you – thank you for your friendship over the last nine years. Working at Notre Dame, particularly on behalf of Athletics, has been one of the great privileges of my life. It’s as if I was able to walk into my dreams and those experiences became my day to day reality. I had so much fun. But I think what I ultimately enjoyed most about the job was getting to work with such kind and talented people. The lessons and memories will come with me, and I will cheer on your continued success. I might even throw in the occasional tour or ticket request just to keep everyone on their toes. Thank you so, so much. Go Irish!”

Please join me in congratulating Brian. You will be greatly missed!

Go Irish!

Kim Borza Donaldson

DC Team Announcements

Please join us in celebrating the promotions of Anita Jones, Brigette Kinney, Katie Edel, Maureen Daday, Pam Mullin, Roz Palusci, and Sarah Nugent to the role of Regional Associate (RA). Each of these individuals has exhibited the high-level responsibilities and skills needed for this new role, and we look forward to their future growth as we continue to align the DC Team for exponential fundraising. Please congratulate them!

The RA position creates a new level in the DC Team career stream, which now includes some re-titled roles, as follows: Development Coordinator (DC), Regional Associate (RA), Assistant Program Director (APD, formerly SRDC), and Associate Director (AD, formerly Assistant Manager). The new titles reflect the evolved state of the roles and the high degree of autonomy/responsibility.

Though the changes incorporate some additional responsibilities and restructuring, all managerial reporting relationships will remain the same, as will all fundraiser (RD and SRD) partnership assignments.

Thank you and congrats to all!

~Lori & Team

An Enthusiastic Welcome to Sam King in Storytelling!

We are excited to welcome Sam King to the Storytelling & Engagement team on Monday, February 21! Sam brings a wealth of experience to our writing team, from his work as a scholar of American history, a legal writing specialist, a content creator for wikiHow, and an NHL team writer. Sam holds a BA from New York University and a Ph.D. from the University of South Carolina.

Sam specializes in the history of post-Civil War America, including Chicago history, Asian American studies, race and ethnicity, and immigration history, and has written about these topics extensively. Notwithstanding such burnished credentials, he’s perhaps best known for his work as a zombie extra in an NYU student film… at least according to his IMDb page. Sam is a die-hard fan of the Carolina Hurricanes hockey team, and he has a senior cat, Jane Addams—named after the early 20th century American social worker activist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate.

Sam brings to our team key research, organization, and a demonstrated capacity for inquisitive and creative thinking. We are so happy to welcome him to South Bend and look forward to the many contributions he will make to Development and the University of Notre Dame!

David Chaudoir

A Warm Welcome to Barbara Josenhans as She Joins Storytelling

We are thrilled to welcome Barbara Josenhans to the Storytelling & Engagement team on Monday, February 21st. Barbara comes to us with a background rich in storytelling experience in arts administration and real estate. Barbara is a professional musician, having held senior chairs in French horn with over half a dozen orchestras in the United States. She is a graduate of the Eastman School of Music and Goshen College.

Some “fun facts” about Barbara:

  • Her first job was scooping ice cream at a mom-and-pop dairy bar that only had three flavors
  • Her best friend to this day is one she made in kindergarten!
  • She’s perfected baking pie, especially with sour cherries hand-picked in Door County, Wisconsin (Go Packers!*)

Barabra values collaboration and synergy in her work and creative endeavors. She brings a breadth of great experience that demonstrates her comprehensive appreciation of high-quality craftsmanship and artistry, qualities vital to the role of a writer. Barabra will be joined in South Bend by her husband, Dr. Thomas Josenhans, and their children at the end of the school year. Welcome to Notre Dame!

 

David Chaudoir

*Packers was added by David without consultation with Barbara

 

Help Me Welcome Dezha Moore to the Giving Programs Team!

It is my pleasure to welcome Dezha Moore to the Annual Giving team as an Assistant Director of Giving Programs. In this role, she will focus on planning and executing annual fundraising campaigns, initiatives, and events, including (but not limited to) Reunion giving, Notre Dame Day, Giving Tuesday, Friday Night Bash, Welcome Weekend, and more. Dezha’s first day will be Monday, February 14th.

Dezha graduated from Indiana State University in 2018. She most recently worked as the Director of Community Engagement and the Dean of School Culture for the South Bend Empowerment Zone. She is actively involved in the South Bend community, serves as the Diversity & Inclusion lead for the Young Professionals Network of South Bend, and has several certifications in the fields of Leadership and Education. We’re thrilled to have her join the Annual Giving team!

Please join me in welcoming Dezha!

Katie Kerby

Amber Cerveny Joins our Storytelling Team

We are really excited to announce that Amber Cerveny ’03 joined our Storytelling Team this week as our Program Coordinator serving Planned Giving. In Amber’s role, she’ll be directing the storytelling efforts for all Planned Giving projects.

Amber joins us from the Diocese of Springfield (IL) where she served as the Director of Faith and Ministry Promotion. Prior to this she served Catholic Charities (Springfield, IL) as their Development Coordinator. Amber also had a 10-year run in the Chicago market in the residential real estate industry. Thinking about buying vs. renting (?) go see Amber first!

Here’s some fun facts about Amber:

  • She played TROMBONE for The Band of the Fighting Irish (she claims it’s the best section in the band)
  • She’s graduated from Notre Dame in 2003; magna cum laude with a degree in Psychology
  • She loves “challenges” as an adult Amber has learned to play the piano, took up boxing and ran the Chicago Marathon

Soon after graduating from Notre Dame, Amber took a job in the Los Angeles area with a company called Kurtzman Carson Consultants. While living in the Hollywood area, our Amber snuck into a Matthew McConnaughey Malibu House Party… Amber admits; “for fear of being arrested, I didn’t stay long…” I think we all need a little more detail about this story!

Please be sure to stop by and introduce yourself to Amber — she’s situated with the Storytelling Team at Eddy Street Commons.

Jim

Welcome to the Southern Region, Tommy Chase!

Dear everyone,

It is my pleasure to welcome Tommy Chase to University Relations as a Regional Director of Development in the Southern Region.

Tommy is a 2013 Notre Dame Alum and monogram winner. As an undergrad, Tommy was captain of the Notre Dame baseball team and double majored in Accounting and Psychology. After graduating from Notre Dame, Tommy spent 7 years coaching baseball at the collegiate level, including roles at the University of Dayton and West Point among others. Tommy comes to us from Lippert where he was a Manufacturing Manager.

Tommy and his wife Teresa have four beautiful young children, David (4), Peter (2 and a half), Patrick (1) and Elizabeth (4 mos). In his free time, Tommy enjoys spending time with his wife and children, all things sports related and reading.

Please join me in welcoming Tommy Chase to University Relations!

Best,
Anne Overly

Condolences to Angel Hess

Today we offer our prayers and condolences to Angel Hess and her family, following the passing of her father on Friday, January 28. Joseph Chamberlain of Mishawaka, Indiana was 86. A full obituary can be found here.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1:30 pm on Wednesday, February 2, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 225 S. Mill Street, Mishawaka. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery with military honors by VFW 360 / American Legion 161 Burial Squad.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 pm on Tuesday at Goethals & Wells Funeral Home, 503 W. 3rd Street, Mishawaka.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Pendle Home, 19303 Pendle Road, South Bend, IN 46637.

Register for HR Spring Professional Development Opportunities

Whether you’re seeking to deepen your expertise and effectiveness or harness your leadership skills, HR offers unparalleled professional development to staff and faculty to develop their inner champions and build their careers. HR is excited to announce the spring program offerings and reminders about all the resources available to you.

Register for spring learning opportunities

 

Manage your goals, learning, and development in Endeavor

With the Endeavor dashboard, it is easier than ever to check in on your goals, view past training and upcoming courses. You’ll receive more targeted support through the dashboard and learn about upcoming events and programs.
Manage Development

 

HR Signature Programs – the Learning at Work Academy

The Learning at Work Academy is a multi-approach education program designed to encourage personal and career development to enhance individual success while strengthening the talent base for the University and the larger community. Instruction is provided conveniently in Notre Dame facilities.
English as a New Language (ENL) and High School Equivalency (HSE) classes start next week. Learn more about signing up for the English as a New Language and High School Equivalency classes.
Additionally, the programs in Business Administration through Ivy Tech Community College offer rolling admission. Find out more about obtaining an Associate Degree of Applied Science in Business Administration (2 years) or Technical Certificate in Business Administration (1 year).

 

Sharpen your skills with Udemy

Udemy is an online, on-demand, self-paced learning platform that is integrated with Endeavor. It offers a wide variety of individual online courses and can be a great option if you’re interested in learning something new, supplementing your professional development, or enhancing a skill set. Now is the time many of us are working towards determining our individual and divisional goals. Below are a few Udemy courses that touch on this subject.

50 Career & Self Development Tips: Welcome to the New You!
Boost Your Productivity: Adapt, Improve, Do!
Best Practices for Working Remotely

 

Thank you for all you do for the University of Notre Dame. HR looks forward to seeing you in professional development programs this spring!

 

Professional Development Flyer

Welcome to the Southwest Team, Patrick Charles!

It is my pleasure to welcome Patrick Charles to the Southwest team as a regional director of development. Patrick’s first day will be on January 24, and he will serve benefactors in southern California.

Since 2016, Patrick has been the co-founder of Wonderspaces, Inc., a company that creates immersive and interactive art experiences in Philadelphia, Scottsdale, and Austin. Prior to this, he was a senior innovation manager for TomorrowLab where he managed multiple consulting projects across multiple industries. He has also worked at Booz Allen Hamilton as an associate for supply-chain and logistics analytics. Patrick served our country in San Diego and Iraq in the Marine Corps as an operations planning and training officer, where he received an achievement award for managing the largest Marine Corps tactical communications network ever created.

Patrick graduated from the University of Scranton with a degree in Accounting, Peking University in Beijing with a certificate in business, Vlerick Business School in Brussels with his MBA, and finally, the University of Notre Dame with his Master of Science in Business Analytics. Patrick is originally from Pennsylvania but is going to be moving to South Bend in a few weeks from Phoenix, Arizona.

I am thrilled to welcome Patrick to the Notre Dame family and the Southwest team. Please join me in welcoming him to the UR team and thanking him for his service!

Shelby

Farewell Kathy Wadolowski

Kathy Wadolowski ’16, ’17 MSM is going to New York University!

Please help us wish Kathy a fond farewell as she embarks upon her new position as Communications Specialist for the Stern School of Business at New York University. Kathy, a Double Domer, joined the Storytelling and Engagement team in July 2017. We’ve had the joy of seeing Kathy grow throughout her career here, and she has become an integral member of our team.

Kathy has worked on countless storytelling proposals, including some of the most challenging ones our team has ever taken on. Juggling details, numbers, photos, personalities, and often arcane particulars is not for the faint of heart. Kathy always got the job done—and she did it well! She wrote more than $1 billion in fundraising proposals during her tenure, in addition to hours of scriptwriting, producing and voiceover work for Notre Dame Day, Here Come the Irish football show, and many other productions.

Kathy’s last day will be January 28. We bid her a heartfelt adieu, but not a goodbye, for Notre Dame will forever be part of her, and she a part of us.

Thank you, Kathy!

-David Chaudoir

Welcome Danielle Filguiera and Paul Hernandez to the Annual Giving Team

It is our pleasure to welcome both Danielle Filgueira and Paul Hernandez as Associate Directors, Leadership Annual Giving, where they will add to growing unrestricted and giving society membership and continue to cultivate benefactors across the country. Their first day will be Tuesday, January 18, 2022.

Danielle is a double domer, having graduated in 2011 before recently receiving her Master’s in Nonprofit Administration this past year. A Miami native, she is surprisingly excited to once again experience all four seasons the Midwest has to offer! Danielle has grown in her professional career with HH Construction Group INC. where she exemplified her growth mindset and ability to develop business relationships. Her competitive nature and love for her alma mater will serve the team well as she joins the Sorin Society team!

Paul is a two time graduate of St. Francis University, graduating in 2011 and completing his Master’s in Organizational Leadership – Higher Education Administration in 2018. Prior to joining Development, Paul served as Employer Engagement Manager, for the University’s Center for Career Development, where he fostered key relationships and developed new relationships with recruiters and C-suite level leadership in a variety of companies and industries. Paul also has experience working in higher education admissions serving as Associate Director of Admissions at the Mendoza College of Business and Assistant Director of Admissions at the University of St. Francis. We cannot be more thrilled to welcome Paul to the Academic and Athletics Giving team!

Please join us in welcoming Danielle and Paul who will be primarily serving benefactors in the Southwest region, New England, and the greater Chicago area this year!

Thanks,
Kasey O’Connor and Pablo Martínez

Thank You, Darlean Vance, and Best Wishes!

Dear Colleagues,

Please join me in wishing Darlean Vance the best of luck as she departs the University this weekend. As many of you know, Dar has the incredible opportunity to be in the Indianapolis metro area with her family, especially her grandson, Bennett, as he receives treatment. A true testament to Dar, her offer to be there for her family exemplifies how she has been one of the most selfless, caring, and compassionate members of our UR Family and to say she will be sorely missed is an understatement!

Dar’s work building relationships with our giving society members for the past nine years, as well as her gracious offer to work in Gift Management through the calendar year end, will be missed by both benefactors and colleagues alike. She has been the voice of Notre Dame to many of our members, and we are grateful for all of her hard work, joyful nature, and dedication to our mission.

Please join me in wishing Dar and her family all the best in the future. Please feel free to stay in touch with Dar at vanjdka1@att.net.

Dar – you will always have your Notre Dame family here for you when you need it!

– Annual Giving and Gift Management

Welcome Chris Liberto to the Northwest Team

It is my pleasure to welcome Chris Liberto to the Northwest team as Regional Director. Chris’ first day will be 1/18/2022, and he will be working with constituents in Iowa, Nebraska, North and South Dakota.

Chris Liberto is a proud graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, but as an Irish Catholic, he’d tell you his true passion and values most closely align with those of Our Lady’s University.

Chris is thrilled to join the Notre Dame family following a successful career as the Executive Director for Camp High Hopes, a non-profit camp in western Iowa aimed at providing unique camping experiences for kids, teens and adults with special needs and chronic illness. Chris spent the majority of his professional career in broadcast journalism where he spent 10 years as a news and sports anchor for ABC covering Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota. Chris’s passion for helping others has shown in his volunteer work, creating two non-profit organizations in Sioux City and serving on multiple Boards of Directors.

Chris and his wife Jenna are looking forward to joining the South Bend/Michiana community after spending nearly two decades in Sioux City. Chris and Jenna have three very energetic kids, Hunter (10 years old), Quinn (7 years old) and Kennedy (4 years), and a mini-golden doodle named Rosie. The family enjoys walks, bike rides, movies and plans to be regulars at Notre Dame sporting events, cheering on the Irish!

Please join me in welcoming Chris Liberto to the team!

Sean Sharpe

Welcome to the Southwest Team, Betsy Hughes!

It is my pleasure to welcome Betsy Hughes to the Southwest team as a regional director of development. Betsy’s first day will be on January 18, and she will serve benefactors in Arizona.

Betsy has spent her career in fundraising for numerous non-profit organizations throughout the country. Most recently, she served as the Senior Vice President and Chief Development Officer for United Way of Metro Chicago, where she secured the organization’s first 8-figure gift for community development. She also served for 15 years as the Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Illinois Institute of Technology

Betsy graduated from St. Bonaventure University with a degree in Communication. She is from Pennsylvania but has spent the past 30 years in Chicago with her husband, Lyle, and two daughters.

I am thrilled to welcome Betsy to the Notre Dame family and the Southwest team. Please join me in welcoming her to the UR team!

Shelby

Congratulations and Gratitude for Megan Macri

After six and a half years, Megan Macri has announced her resignation from the University and her role as a fundraiser with the Illinois Team.

Megan has been a valuable teammate. Her fundraising acumen along with her leadership and team-focused approach will be missed. The Freehold, N.J. native consistently developed strong relationships with her benefactors. Her work will have a lasting impact on Notre Dame and the students the university serves.

The 2005 ND graduate will join the Chicago-based private equity firm TJM Capital Partners as a Principal. In her new role, Megan will focus on investor relations, fundraising, and cultivating key relationships within portfolio companies.

We wish her well and look forward to seeing her, Matt and their children Amelia, Kate and Maeve back on campus when they visit.

Congratulations Megan and thank you for your service to Our Lady’s Mission.

Megan’s last day will be Jan. 26.

Welcome Sean Cuneo and Jim Hill!

Please join us in welcoming Sean Cuneo and Jim Hill to the Marketing Operations, Annual Giving team as Content Marketing Specialists!

In these roles, Sean and Jim will use their creativity and writing skills to produce persuasive, emotionally evocative multichannel fundraising campaigns that raise critical funds that empower Notre Dame students to be forces for good in the world.

Sean Cuneo graduated from Notre Dame in 2012 and comes to us from Mercyhurst University where he served as the Director of Marketing & Brand Management. His robust experience as a writer, creative, and digital marketer will be a great addition to our team. Sean’s first day is Tuesday, January 4th.

Jim Hill graduated from Boston College and Villanova University and comes to us from Villanova’s Office of Grants and Contracts where he served as a Grants and Contracts Assistant. Jim has unique experience in writing, directing his own short films, and in working as a Logistics Management Specialist for the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command. Jim’s first week is remote beginning on Tuesday, January 11th and he will join us in the office on January 18th.

Please join us in welcoming Sean and Jim to the UR Family!

Lauren Dolzan and Brandon Tabor

Welcome Rachel Myers to the Resource Strategy and Administration team!

It is my pleasure to welcome Rachel Myers to the Resource Strategy and Administration team as Associate Director of Finance. Rachel’s first day will be Monday, December 20, when she will begin leading our day-to-day finance administration and strategy.

Rachel is a graduate of Purdue with a double major in financial planning and sales management as well as a minor in psychology. In addition, she earned a master’s of education from Valparaiso University.

Rachel brings more than 15 years of experience in financial analysis and operations management to UR. Most recently, Rachel served as Director of Finance and Operations at Andrean High School (Merrillville, IN).

Please join me in welcoming Rachel! And please consider reaching out to Rachel (rmyers24@nd.edu) to introduce yourself. Especially in our hybrid work environment, we appreciate our UR teammates and key partners who take the time to make our newest member feel welcomed and included.

Kathryn Valenti

Welcome Alumni Association Senior Director of Communications and Marketing, Digger O’Brien

Team,

I couldn’t be more excited to share the good news that we have a new Senior Director of Communications and Marketing, Digger O’Brien. Digger comes to us after many years working as an Executive Producer and Chief Content Officer for various groups within the NFL. His responsibilities as the Head of Entertainment Marketing included overseeing all content development, creative and brand-alignment strategies for third-party digital, television and film projects in the entertainment industry. In addition, as the Senior Producer of NFL Films, he executed hundreds of hours of large-scale content development and production initiatives at the NFL’s in-house production company. And to top it all off, he is a five-time national Emmy Award winner for editing, directing and writing.

Digger is the author of “Pointing Is Rude: One Father’s Story of Autism, Adoption, and Acceptance.”

A 1989 graduate of Notre Dame, Digger will be joined in South Bend by his wife, Bernadette, and children, Anna (24), Frederick and Grace (19) and Julian (12). He joined us on November 29, splitting time between South Bend and Yardley, PA, until after the holidays.

Please join me in welcoming Digger O’Brien.

All the best,
Dolly

CCPC Team Updates

First, I am thrilled to share the promotion of Jen Odell to Sr. Associate Director on the CCPC team. Jen has taken on many new responsibilities this past year and continues to elevate our events and experiences through her tireless work and incredibly creative mind! This is a much deserved recognition of phenomenal work and dedication to the Cavanaugh Council and President’s Circle programs.
Next, please join me in welcoming Jordan Wahlstrom back to Development as a new Associate Director. Jordan comes to us from the Special Events team where she has helped plan and implement elevated experiences for high-level university constituents since 2018. Prior to joining Notre Dame, Jordan managed the marketing and graphic design for Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve, where she continues to volunteer today. Her previous experience and talents will serve her well as she oversees and enhances our membership communications. Jordan will also work to provide elevated programmatic elements to our events including engagement of our CCPC Scholars and student speakers. Jordan lives in Buchanan, Michigan with her three beautiful (and very photogenic!) Golden Retrievers: Logan, Oliver, and Colby.
Finally, I’m happy to introduce Kaitlyn Winkle, who also joined the CCPC team as an Associate Director and is new to the Notre Dame family. Kaitlyn previously led fundraising campaigns and events for a Muncie-based healthcare organization, Meridian Health Services. Kaitlyn has also led development efforts in a prior role at the YWCA of Muncie, a homeless shelter for women and children. Kaitlyn’s experience in fundraising and development efforts will serve her well as she focuses on our internal communications and fundraiser partnership including marketing materials, resources, and tools to help share the impact and importance of the CCPC program. Kaitlyn will also oversee our mentorship program in partnership with the Career Center. Kaitlyn is a graduate of Ball State University, where she earned her undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Please join me in congratulating Jen and welcoming Jordan and Kaitlyn!
Mary Jane Añón

Welcome to our newest Development Coordinators, Becky Kincaid and Casey Buck!

Dear UR,

Please join us in welcoming our newest Development Coordinators, Becky and Casey!

Rebekah (Becky) Kincaid comes to ND via Port Richey, Florida. She started with us on November 2nd and reports to Tashana Kenny. Rebekah served as Client Success Coordinator for Charter Communications during her 6-year Southern residency, but she is native to the South Bend area. Previous roles include Administrative Assistant to the Regional President of 1st Source Bank in our area. Rebekah has returned home to Michiana to be closer to family and friends and is already feeling the spirit of Notre Dame!

Casey Buck transferred from ND Athletics Ticketing for his Development start date of 12.13.21, reporting to Anita Sareen. Casey’s previous employment includes roles as Tax Staff Intern with Crowe, Manager for General Nutrition Center, and Shift Manager for Kabelin Ace Hardware. Casey will attain a Masters in Applied Sports Science from California University of Pennsylvania this month; he holds a Bachelors in Accounting and Business Management from Purdue University. Casey grew up in Northwest Indiana (Laporte, Valparaiso), and has recently moved to South Bend. Casey enjoys traveling with friends and being outdoors as much as possible

The DC Team now has a full house for the holidays! We are grateful for the partnerships that made this possible.

Lori, Tashana, and Anita

Welcome to the Organizational Effectiveness team, Jami Radcliff!

It is my pleasure to welcome Jami Radcliff to the Organizational Effectiveness team as Salesforce Administrator and Business Analyst. Jami’s first day will be Monday, December 13th, and she will be responsible for supporting our Enterprise CRM users and the asceND project by facilitating thoughtful requirements discussions and leveraging the power and flexibility of the Salesforce platform to implement technical solutions that streamline business processes and improve user experience.

Jami comes to Notre Dame from INSERV, Inc. in Mishawaka where she held roles as the IT Director and Salesforce Administrator for the last three and a half years. Prior to that, Jami held leadership and customer support roles in Charlotte Russe.

Please join me in welcoming Jami to the Notre Dame family.

Dean Ernzen

Congratulations to Tim Kenney

Dear Colleagues,

It is our pleasure to share that Tim Kenney will be joining the Sorin Society team as Associate Director, Sorin Society Marketing, effective December 13th, 2021. We are excited that Tim’s creativity, dedication to the Notre Dame mission, and genuine care for the Notre Dame family will work to grow and strengthen the vital Sorin Society community!

Over the past two years, Tim has served on the Giving Programs team and led our donor recruitment campaigns which are crucial to driving new donors to the University each fiscal year. In addition to executing creative and effective campaigns, Tim was a key leader for ND Parents, ND Loyal, Notre Dame Day, and Reunion giving. Tim consistently demonstrates the ability to juggle many things at once, all while being a team player and a great source of joy. Please feel free to reach out to Tim regarding any Sorin Society benefactor needs moving forward!

With Tim’s transition within the Annual Giving team, Katie Kerby is looking for the next talented addition to the Giving Programs team! Please reach out to her or the Talent Acquisition team with anyone who you think would fit this role!

Wishing you all our best,
Katie Kerby & Pablo Martínez

Welcome to the DC Team, Stephanie Washington!

Dear UR,

Please join us in welcoming Stephanie Washington to the DC Team! Stephanie transitioned from her role as Marketing and Communications Coordinator in the Alumni Association, a position she held since 2018, on 11.11.21. Many of us know Stephanie from our Covid lockdown days for her impactful contributions to the UR DEIU dialogue. She has been a MyND3 Communications Advisory Group Member since 2019 and an Employee Resource Group Committee Member since 2021. Previous to her ND tenure, Stephanie worked for the South Bend Community School Corporation, in church work, and as a youth counselor. She holds a Bachelors degree in Law and Society from Purdue University. In her free time, Stephanie enjoys playing video games with her 7-year-old son, Dante.

Deena and Lori

Thank you and Best Wishes, Mark Futa!

Dear UR family,

Mark Futa has shared the news with me that he has accepted a position as Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Carleton, Inc. Mark’s last day will be February 25th, 2022. We are sad to see Mark leave the University but the Central team could not be happier for Mark. Mark is a tremendously talented leader who has been a good friend to us all. He has faithfully served Our Lady’s University and his benefactor families for four years with pride and integrity. We will miss his self-deprecating humor and willingness to do whatever was required to make the team better. I, personally, will also miss his tremendous example as a father as he always employs that right balance of love and discipline for the betterment of his kids. Fortunately, though, Mark will remain in the area so we look forward to seeing him around town and at St. Joe High School sporting events. Thank you so much, Mark. God bless you, Marla, and the entire Futa family. We wish you well in your new ventures.

Jason Scarlett

Welcome Sydney Kuhn to the Marketing Operations team!

Please join me in welcoming Sydney Kuhn to the Marketing Operations, Annual Giving team as the new Digital Marketing Specialist.

Sydney has spent the last 2 years as the Assistant Director, Annual Giving Programs and now is “spreading her wings” into the digital space, where she will own the creation of our crowdfunding campaigns for student groups and campus partners, implement social strategy for our @NDLoyal channels, launch and expand our texting communication tool, and manage online activities for Notre Dame Day.

Sydney’s personality, eagerness to learn, and grit are fantastic value-adds to our team and we are excited to have her join us!

– Lauren Dolzan

Welcome Samantha and Susan to the DC Team!

Dear UR,

Please join us in welcoming two new DCs to UR!

Samantha Checkley brings 6 years of ND campus experience to the team, beginning in the DC role on 11.01.21 and reporting to Deena Chamberlin. Samantha was previously the Restaurant Manager for Garbanzo’s on campus, and her previous roles include Retail Lead Associate for our Duncan Student Center. She holds an Associates degree from Ivy Tech and she studied Biochemistry at IUSB. For fun facts, Samantha’s mother is Lisa Checkley Needham, Lab Program Manager in the Ferdig Lab of ND Biology. Samantha enjoys hiking, kayaking and spending time with her 3 children (ages 10 mons, 7 and 9).

Susan Morse started her ND career on 11.01.21 as DC reporting to Tashana Kenny. Susan last served as Instructional Aide for St. Joseph Catholic Grade School for 6 years due to her love of education. The role was a departure from her earlier project and people management experience as Account Manager for Press Ganey (8 years) and Manager for Gap Inc. (14 years). Susan holds a Bachelors degree in Apparel & Textile Marketing from Kansas State University. Her family includes son Mitchell (16), son Mason (13), and puppy Otis (3).

Go Irish!

Lori and the DC Management Team

Welcome Kimberly Bakle to the DC Team!

Dear UR,

Kimberly Bakle began her tenure as DC on 10.25.21, reporting to Deena Chamberlin. Kimberly’s ND experience began in the Robinson Center (2016) before her transition to Mendoza’s Graduate Business Program. where she served as Staff Assistant (2017-2019) and Administrative Coordinator (2019-2021). In her last role, Kimberly supported several Associate Deans and worked on special projects for the MBA and EMBA programs. Kimberly is the recipient of the 2018 Mendoza Dean’s Award for Excellence and is ND certified in Project Management. She holds a Bachelors degree from IUPUI and an Associates degree from Ivy Tech. In her free time, Kimberly enjoys reading, listening to true crime podcasts, and watching Hallmark Channel Christmas movies.

Deena and Lori

Sad News for the Business Furnishing team

UR team-

I just wanted to share a bit of news with you from ND Facilities and Business Furnishings. For anyone who was around and worked with Business Furnishings installations, you likely had the opportunity to work with Gus Jaramillo. Gus was the lead installer assigned to the Notre Dame account and was on campus nearly every day.

In late September Gus, contracted COVID and ended up in the hospital. About two weeks ago he was placed in an induced coma and was put on a ventilator. Sadly, we learned that Gus passed away last night.

Gus was 41 years old with a wife and two daughters. He was so proud of his oldest daughter who started at St. Mary’s this past year. His younger daughter is still in high school. Please keep his family and the Business Furnishings family in your thoughts and prayers. As you can imagine they are all devastated.

I received this note from the Facilities interiors team, “Gus was an integral part of the success of our many, many projects across campus; both large and small. He was energetic, pleasant, and helpful. A real joy to work with. He would do anything we asked of him and was always the first to take overtime on a project to support getting the work done on time or early. He will be missed greatly and his absence will be felt for a long time.”

For me personally, Gus was a phenomenal person and will be greatly missed. For our recent ESC reconfiguration, he was definitely the person that made everything happen. He always had a smile and wanted to do whatever he could to make the project a success I was honored to have known him

Business Furnishings has set up a Gofundme account for Gus’ family. If you are so inclined to donate the link is below:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-for-the-family-of-gus-jaramillo

Please keep Gus and his family in your prayers
Lana

Welcome back to Stewardship & Donor Relations, Sara Kassen!

Please join me in welcoming Sara Kassen back to Development as our new director for stewardship communications. Sara is excited to return to her work family, as she was previously part of the Stewardship & Donor Relations team from 2007-16. During that time she was involved in acknowledgments, reports, financial aid stewardship, public recognition, and events. Most recently, she split her time between freelance communications consulting and stay-at-home mom activities. Sara has a knack for editing, loves creative communication pieces, and is excited to call upon her days in broadcasting to help further connect benefactors to the mission of Notre Dame. She and her husband, Sean, live in Granger with daughters Lydia (12) and Neve (10) and a gigantic dog named Nebula. Sara joins us on Monday, October 25.

In Notre Dame,

Katherine Lane

Welcome to the DC team, Megan Hale!

Dear UR,

It is our distinct pleasure to bring Megan Hale to the role of Development Coordinator (DC) reporting to Angie Dennig, effective October 18, 2021. Megan’s professional background includes multiple customer service roles in the healthcare industry. Most recently, she worked as a sales consultant for Rodan and Fields. Megan hails from Boston, Massachusetts and has lived in Granger for the past nine years. She is the proud mother of three children: Jack (11), Brady (9), and Savannah (6). Megan volunteers for the Make-A-Wish Foundation and loves the outdoors. Megan is looking forward to meeting many new colleagues at the upcoming USC Development tailgate, so please stop and say hello!

Sincerely,

Angie and Lori

Welcome Prospect Research Team additions: Christina and Megan

I’m excited to announce recent growth in our Prospect Research team!

Megan Andedo is joining the team as a Research Analyst. She moves from her role as the Gift and Data Management Analyst, on October 18th.

This move is the perfect next step for Megan! Over the past year, she has assisted our team in identifying leadership prospects from the DTR and completed some wealth evaluations. Prior to joining Notre Dame in 2019, Megan worked in Development at St. Mary’s College. She also spent nine years with Target as a logistics team member. Megan graduated from Indiana University South Bend with a Bachelor degree in General Studies and she is currently working towards a Masters in Liberal Studies.

Megan has two sons who keep her super busy. Ezra is 7 and Eli is 4 years old. She enjoys writing and a fun fact about Megan is that she has submitted works to Michiana Monologues and even performed other writer’s stories. We’re excited to have an accomplished writer such as this join our team!

Christina Ryan joined the team as a Research Analyst on August 16th and was immediately immersed in Development during her first week at Summit. Fundraisers are now beginning to receive wealth evaluations from her – she’s spent time with Ben to learn from the best!

Christina previously worked in the Notre Dame Department of History. She left Higher Ed to experience life in the corporate world and comes to us most recently from Great Lakes Forest Products in Elkhart IN, where she was an Inside Sales Coordinator and Graphic Designer. Christina graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and a minor in Photography. She received her Masters of Arts in History from DePaul University, Chicago.

When Christina is not at work or home, she is mostly likely at the “best gym in the Midwest” – East Race Muscle. Christina is a competitive powerlifter and bodybuilder. We look forward to Christina contributing to getting our Research work and the entire team in shape!

Please join me in welcoming Christina and Megan!

Cindy

New Role for Josh Flynt

Dear Colleagues,

We wanted to share that our colleague and friend Josh Flynt will begin a new role as regional director of development, beginning on November 1. Since 2018, Josh has served on the Alumni Association marketing and communications team, connecting the Notre Dame family back to the University and helping to lead new initiatives like the Domer Dozen and numerous important communications to our alumni, parents, and friends.

Prior to joining the NDAA, Josh worked for three years as the advisor to the vice president for university relations. He joined our UR team after several years in Notre Dame athletics following his graduation from Notre Dame in 2011. Josh will work with families in upstate and western New York, close to where he called home growing up.

Please join us in congratulating Josh on this new chapter, and thanking him for his work as a UR colleague over these past six years.

All the best,
Dolly and Sara

Congratulations, Ashley Van Avermaete – new CCPC Associate Director

It is my pleasure to welcome Ashley Van Avermaete to the Cavanaugh Council and President’s Circle team as Associate Director. Among many responsibilities, Ashley will provide oversight and enhancement to our data management processes including membership tracking and analysis.

Ashley has been a dedicated member of the development coordinator’s team since 2019. In that time, she led the charge to improve our process documentation, helping to create a “DC Toolkit” that is widely used by all team members. Ashley shared her tech skills freely, creating Spark cards for every occasion but also teaching those skills to the rest of us. She has a zest for process improvement and we’ve been extremely fortunate to have benefited from her keen eye. Many thanks, Ashley!

We know her previous experience, technical skills, and innovative nature will serve her well as she begins this new role. Her first day will be Monday, October 18th. Please join us in congratulating Ashley!

Mary Jane Añón and Deena Chamberlin

Welcome Sr. Office Coordinator, Dawn Smith!

It is my pleasure to welcome Dawn Smith to the Advancement Services team as the Sr. Coordinator for the Eddy Street Office. Dawn’s first day will be October 11th, and she will be overseeing the Eddy Street front desk area.

Dawn is joining us from St. Michael’s Laundry where she has spent the last 12 years as the Lead for Customer Service. Prior to joining St.Michael’s, she served as the Office Manager for Planet Automotive Group. While at Notre Dame, Dawn participated in the Ivy Tech program earning her degree in Applied Science.

Dawn will be the welcoming face and voice for anyone stopping by or calling and will be assisting with handling operational issues within the suite. She brings a great customer service focus to the front desk of our Eddy Street office and has tremendous institutional knowledge having built strong working relationships with both the administrative and facilities areas at the University.

Please join me in welcoming Dawn to the UR team. Be sure to stop by the front desk to introduce yourself or just to say hi!

Lana Taylor

Welcome to the Notre Dame Clubs Program Team, Annie Ortega-Shyne!

The Clubs Team has welcomed a new Clubs Program Manager – Annie Ortega-Shyne. Annie joins our team after serving as a Program Assistant with the Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies at Notre Dame and has been a seasoned educator for over 16 years. Annie also spent over eight years volunteering with the U.S. Naval Academy serving as an admissions officer and as co-president/executive board member with the USNA South Florida Parents Club. Annie received her B.A. and MBA from the University of Miami and a Master of Arts from Knox Theological Seminary.

In her role, Annie will provide support for Notre Dame clubs in six regions: Central, Florida, Illinois, Midwest, Ohio Valley, and Southwest. In this capacity, she will onboard club leaders, provide support, and share ideas and resources with clubs. She will also be responsible for UND Celebrations and ND Day club assistance and resources.

Please join me in welcoming Annie to the UR team.

– Abbey Johnson

Welcome to the Illinois Team, Courtney Mattison!

I am very excited to announce that Courtney Mattison will join the Illinois Team as a Regional Director on October 11.

Courtney brings extensive experience in fundraising, with a focus on donor relations. Courtney served as Senior Manager for Development and Events for Paqui and Coach Brian Kelly’s charitable foundation Kelly Cares, as well as Director of Marketing for the College Football Hall of Fame. Most recently, she served as the Director of Annual Giving and Constituent Relations for Saint Joseph High School. Her experience with these and other institutions of Catholic education have prepared her for Notre Dame and make her eager and grateful to serve the mission of Our Lady’s University.

Courtney, originally from the Washington, D.C. area, began her career on Capitol Hill after graduating from Stephens College with a B.S. in American Public Policy. She and her husband Bill, a professor in the Department of Theology and Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE) at Notre Dame, have two boys, Billy and Jack.

In Notre Dame,

Jerry Barca

Congratulations and welcome to the Southwest Team, Leah Corachea!

I am excited to announce that Leah Corachea has joined the Southwest team as regional director, working with benefactors in the Los Angeles area.

As many of you know, Leah has been a part of the ND development family for 7 years. She most recently served as the Associate Director, Leadership Annual Giving where she worked to raise incremental annual unrestricted funds for our giving societies program and in FY21, Leah raised $440,000 in incremental unrestricted funds for the University. Before that role, she ran our ND Listens and Parents programs for 3 years where she set records and reinvented our student-caller program.

Leah, a double Domer, received her BA in Sociology in 2014 and her Master in Non-profit Administration in 2020. While an undergrad student, she was on the Women’s Rowing team, winning two Big East championships in 2011 and 2012.

Leah has been “a part” of the SouthBEST team, acting as our team’s liaison to the Annual Giving team for the past year. I am thankful to have her officially on the team and look forward to seeing her succeed in this role. Please join me in congratulating Leah!

Best, Shelby

Welcome Sara Aycock and Wayne Harpenau to the IT&S Team!

The Information Technology and Services team is excited to announce two new members.

Sara Aycock joined the data integration team as Systems Integration Professional on September 20th. She will start with a focus on the Ascend project with gift integration. Sara is a 2011 Saint Mary’s graduate with a Bachelor of Business Administration, Management Information Systems.

Sara is joining us from the OIT Employee/Finance team, having been with Notre Dame for 10 years. She already has experience with the tools our group uses and all of us on the IT&S team are excited she has chosen to join us.

Wayne Harpenau joined the data integration team as Systems Integration Professional on September 27th. Wayne will also start with a focus on the Ascend project helping us migrate our data from CrmND to Ascend.

Wayne graduated from Iowa State University and has continued his education in Business Intelligence with Villanova University.

Wayne joins us from Trinity Health Catholic Hospitals. Previous to that, he worked for Western Michigan University and Sony, doing all forms of data integration work bringing our team many years of experience. We are grateful Wayne will be sharing his extensive experience with our team and looking forward to how that will help us all grow.

Thank you for welcoming Sara and Wayne and I ask that you help support them to have a fulfilling and successful time with us in University Relations.

Andrew Yocum

Welcome to the Storytelling & Engagement Team, Kilian Vidourek!

I am pleased to announce that Kilian Vidourek has joined the Storytelling & Engagement Team as Visual Storyteller, effective Sept. 13.

Kilian is from Tyrone, Georgia, a small town south of Atlanta. He studied French horn performance and Film production at Notre Dame where he played in almost any musical group he could. A proud member of the Marching Band, he was also a member of the Irish Guard. Throughout his time at Notre Dame he had several unimaginable opportunities like traveling to Portland Oregon to film a documentary, learning to be an assistant brewer for a new brewery, and interning in Los Angeles. Some fun facts about him include his alter-ego Dogsnake which you can sometimes find DJing around South Bend and his love of running.

Please join me in welcoming Kilian to our UR Team!

Jim Gosz

Congratulations Tashana Kenny!

Dear UR,

It is our absolute pleasure to share with you the promotion of Tashana Kenny to the role of Assistant Manager (AM) on the Development Coordinator (DC) Team. Tashana will be transitioning on September 15, 2021 to work with the management team, reporting to Lori Tinkey. In the new position, Tashana will continue to support field fundraisers, add responsibilities for managing DCs, and helping to lead the DC Team.

Tashana was instrumental in the success of the DC cross-training pilot program last year and serves as Co-Lead for the ongoing initiative. She continues to have a strong impact on our DEIU efforts through the Communications and Impact committee of DEIU. Prior to her work with the University, Tashana was an Enterprise Specialist in Product Sales and Support with Comcast for 16 years. Tashana received her Masters degree from the University of Phoenix in 2019, and her Bachelors degree from Ball State University in 1996.

Please reach out to Tashana to congratulate her on this achievement.

Sincerely,

Deena and Lori

Congratulations Emma Capannari!

Dear UR,

It is our distinct pleasure to announce the promotion of Emma Capannari to the role of Senior Regional Development Coordinator(SRDC) reporting to Lori Tinkey, effective September 20, 2021. In her new role, Emma will continue to provide support to her current fundraisers for the near term, adding Senior Regional Directors (SRDs) to her portfolio as opportunities present, and work with the management team on special projects. An Indiana University graduate, Emma joined ND Development in 2018 and assumed the responsibility of managing the Chicago Development office, as well as providing support to four fundraisers. Emma was called to serve on the Covid-19 response unit as well as the AsceND project last year. Please join us in congratulating Emma.

If you have any questions about Emma’s new responsibilities, please feel free to contact us.

Sincerely,

Angie and Lori

Stewardship & Donor Relations Updates and Promotions

We are thrilled to announce two promotions and a new addition to the Stewardship & Donor Relations team.

Megan DePrimio-Faust has been promoted to a Program Director in Donor Recognition. Megan, who has been on the team for five years, has grown significantly in her role. She has been instrumental in leading the recognition audit throughout campus and has made incredible recognition contributions for key donors, both public and personal. In addition, Cheryl Schlimpert has been promoted to Project Manager for Stewardship & Donor Relations. In this role, Cheryl will continue to support the entire team serving as the project manager for our most complex projects, including endowment reports, financial aid student recipient thank you notes, and the dedication budget just to name a few. Please join me in congratulating both Megan and Cheryl!

In addition, I am excited to announce that the responsibility of stewarding members of the Badin Guild is moving from Annual Giving to the Stewardship & Donor Relations team. The responsibility of Badin Marketing will remain in Annual Giving and a search will be underway soon to fill this open position. With this change, we are excited to welcome Laura Walker, Associate Director of the Badin Guild, to the stewardship team. Laura brings with her seven years of Development experience as a member of the Annual Giving team where she oversaw the stewardship of the Badin Guild, the marketing of planned giving vehicles, and since 2017, the marketing of our matching gift program.

As we prepare for the next campaign, this change will allow us to strategically determine how best to steward Badin Guild members, both programmatically as well as individually at the top of the pyramid ($10+). The move to the Stewardship & Donor Relations will allow Laura to leverage her knowledge of the Badin Guild and couple it with the expertise and support of the entire team. Laura will certainly continue to partner with her colleagues in Annual Giving, especially with Badin communications and stewardship events. She will also serve as the stewardship liaison to the Office of Gift Planning.

Please note that Laura will continue to handle Badin marketing until a new colleague is hired in this role reporting to Jim Small.

Thank you and Best Wishes to Marcia Hittner

Dear UR,

With appreciation for her selfless dedication to Notre Dame fundraising, we wish Marcia Hittner all the best for her upcoming retirement on September 30. Marcia has been an invaluable member of our geographically extended family, serving as Development Coordinator from the New York City office and her delightful Queens apartment for 13 years. We are grateful to Marcia for her efforts in supporting our fundraisers and our special events team, in particular for her work on the highly successful Wall Street dinners. Her attention to detail and organizational skills have been integral to the continued success of our New York presence. During the pandemic lockdown, many of us knew Marcia as a faithful, insightful contributor to our UR DEIU Zoom conversations. Thank you, Marcia.

Please join us in congratulating Marcia on her next chapter!

The DC Team has a number of openings for the Development Coordinator position; if you, or someone you know, are interested in knowing more, please contact me at ltinkey@nd.edu.

~Lori and Deena

 

Congratulations and Best Wishes to Conor Montijo

Dear Friends,

I wanted to share two quick celebratory notes regarding Conor Montijo, albeit one is much more a cause for celebration for us in UR than the other!

Firstly, I want to congratulate Conor and Molly (Reidy), who recently celebrated one month since their marriage! They were married by Molly’s brother in the Basilica with their closest family and friends and we could not be happier for the newlyweds. Wishing them a lifetime of happiness!

Secondly, I write to share that Conor will join ND Innovates as Program Director, effective September 13, with his last day in Development being September 10th. In his new capacity, Conor will serve as the Assessment lead, empowering partners from cross-functional teams to assess problems, design solutions, and implement those solutions at scale across the University in pursuit of cost savings that can be directed to financial aid. Please join me in wishing Conor all the best on this next chapter of his career. His genuine candor, professionalism and embodiment of the Notre Dame Mission will be missed!

We will be looking to hire Conor’s replacement for the Associate Director, Sorin Society role within the next couple of weeks. Please let me know directly if you have any questions!

In Notre Dame,
Pablo

Welcome Isabel Dance to the Development Coordinator team!

It is my pleasure to welcome Isabel Dance to the Development Coordinator team. Isabel started with us on August 23rd.

Isabel most recently worked as a recruiter for Aerotek in South Bend, Indiana. She also worked part-time at the Loft and is very into fashion. Before the pandemic, she volunteered at the Saint Mary’s Convent as Volunteer Leader for sisters affected with dementia. She planned many activities there including several fashion shows!

Isabel has a Bachelor of Science degree in Retail Management with a minor in Communications from Purdue University. She can’t wait for the ND v. Purdue game in a few weeks!

Isabel and her husband, Austin, who also works for the University at the Warren Golf Course, reside in South Bend.

Please join me in welcoming Isabel!

Anita Sareen

Welcome Laura Marks to the Marketing Operations team!

I am thrilled to welcome Laura Marks to the Marketing Operations, Annual Giving team as our new Project Manager. Laura’s first day in the office was Monday, August 23rd.

Laura grew up in Hawaii and moved to the area when she was 15, and has been a South Bend native ever since! She’s spent the past six years at Pathfinders Advertising, an advertising agency in the Mishawaka area. Her experience at Pathfinders has lent to her robust background in strategic marketing and project management skills, and ability to take on fast-paced work with ease. We have no doubt that Laura is going to take this role by the horns and lead our team well.

Please join me in welcoming Laura to the team!

Cheers,

Lauren Dolzan

Farewell and Best Wishes to Devon Aragona

UR Team,

Please note that Thursday, September 2 will be Devon Aragona’s last day on the Marketing Operations, Annual Giving team. Devon will be taking her experience and skillset to International Justice Mission (IJM) as their digital marketing lead.

We are grateful for Devon’s many contributions to our team the past three years, including elevating our @NDLoyal social media brand and presence, rallying behind and supporting student groups in their crowd-funding efforts, and leading the charge on Notre Dame Day’s giving website and digital needs. Beyond her work efforts, we will miss her vibrant personality!

If you were working with Devon on any projects, please contact me for a plan of transition. The role of the Digital Marketing Specialist will be posted on jobs.nd.edu in the coming weeks. We will release further information regarding this vacancy as it becomes available.

Please join us in congratulating Devon on her move and wishing her success in this next chapter in her life and career!

Thank you,
Lauren Dolzan

Farewell and Best Wishes to Rubén de Jesús Medina

Dear everyone-

Rubén de Jesús Medina will be leaving Development at the end of August to launch an entrepreneurial finance & startup advisory company. As a Double-Domer, with a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering and an M.S. in Finance, Magna Cum Laude, he will always have a special place in his heart for Notre Dame. Rubén is very grateful for his time in Development, the friendships made, and wishes the entire UR team much success in the years ahead. Please take a moment to wish Ruben all the best in his new adventures.

Anne Overly

Congratulations to Geoff Stookey!

It is my pleasure to welcome our colleague, Geoff Stookey to the Academic and Athletic Annual Giving team as an Associate Director, Leadership Annual Giving. Geoff comes highly regarded among colleagues across the division and we know his love for Notre Dame (not to mention his tremendous Notre Dame Story – be sure to ask him if you have not heard it), his work ethic and dedication to his team, and his passion for athletics (Go Irish, Go Zags, and Go Braves!) will serve him well in this new role!

Geoff most recently served the division as Sr. Financial Analyst on the Resource Strategy and Administration team. Geoff is the consummate teammate – always working hard and willing to lend a hand and share his expertise. He does that and more and never wants to take credit. A huge thank you to Geoff for all he has done – he will be missed dearly by the RS&A team! And we couldn’t be more thrilled for Geoff to share his talents in this new way with UR! Geoff’s first day in his new role will be Wednesday, September 1st.

Any budget, financial, position management related questions that Geoff typically fields and can be directed to Rachel Parks and Kathryn Valenti. With Geoff’s transition, we will be redesigning the role into a Director of Finance position. If you know any talented folks interested in such a position, please contact Kathryn.

Kasey O’Connor and Kathryn Valenti

Thanks and farewell to Jackie Thomas!

Colleagues,

I write to share the bittersweet news that Jackie Thomas will be leaving her role as Young Alumni Program Director to embark on her next adventure in Chicago. During her 6+ years with the Alumni Association, Jackie has been instrumental in re-envisioning our young alumni and student engagement through the important role she has played in the creation of the YoungND board, Domer Dozen, Bloody Mary and Mimosa Bar, Traditions Book, Life Beyond The ND Bubble, Senior Medallion, and more. Perhaps most importantly, Jackie is a genuine friend and dear colleague to many across the University. Jackie’s final day with the NDAA will be Friday, September 3. Please join me in thanking Jackie for her service to Notre Dame and wishing her well in this new chapter.

We are working to post this position soon. If you know anyone interested in learning more, please do not hesitate to contact me at jflynt@nd.edu.

Best,
Josh Flynt

Announcement re: Rich Allocco

Colleagues,

It is with mixed emotions that I write to share the news that Rich Allocco will be retiring from Notre Dame as of 9/30/2021. Rich joined the Notre Dame Development team in December 2018, after a long and successful career as a Silicon Valley executive. A distinguished Notre Dame graduate, Rich played football for the Irish and was a member of the 1973 National Championship team under Ara Parseghian. Rich has been an integral part of the Northwest region, residing in Northern California and working with benefactors in and around the San Francisco Bay area. His passion for Our Lady’s University, professionalism, and great care for his constituents and his teammates will be greatly missed. A wonderful Notre Dame representative, Rich embodies all that makes Notre Dame and Her family so special.

Rich will be in the Bay Area wrapping up gift conversations and transitioning his constituents over the next 45 days. We are incredibly grateful for Rich’s many contributions to our team, and will miss his experience and passion for Notre Dame. Please join us in congratulating Rich on his upcoming retirement and wishing him continued success in this next chapter in life!

Thank you,

Sean Sharpe

Welcome Kevin Frost to the Sorin Society Giving team!

It is my pleasure to welcome Kevin Frost to the Sorin Society Giving team as an Associate Director, Leadership Annual Giving. Kevin’s first day will be Monday, August 16th.

Kevin is a 2016 graduate of Notre Dame and will be relocating to South Bend from New York, where he started his career. Kevin joined SAP after graduation, before being appointed business and sales development director at Innodata, Inc, an IT service management company. We are especially thrilled to welcome Kevin back to Notre Dame Development, as he was a student caller and manager in our student center (now ND Listens) during his time on campus.

Please join me in welcoming Kevin back home to Notre Dame. His work as a fundraiser will not only drive our giving society memberships, but his love for Notre Dame will serve the Sorin team well! We are thrilled to have him as the newest member of our team!

In Notre Dame,

Pablo Martínez

Thank you and Farewell to Annie Geary!

We are excited to celebrate the promotion of Annie Geary to the President’s Office, where she will work as an Advisor to the Vice President and Chief of Staff, Ann Firth. Annie has been an invaluable contributor to the Development Coordinator Team in University Relations and, most recently, to the University’s Covid Response Unit in the testing center and as a contact tracer. Please join us in wishing our friend and colleague every success as she approaches her 25th year of service to Our Lady’s University. Thank you, Annie!

 

Lori Ehrman Tinkey

 

Welcome to Academic and Athletic Annual Giving, Andrew Owens!

It is my pleasure to welcome Andrew Owens to the Academic and Athletic Annual Giving team as an Associate Director, Leadership Annual Giving. Andrew’s first day will be Monday, August 16th.

Andrew is a 2013 graduate of Notre Dame and 2019 of Notre Dame Law School. Andrew is joining us from Honigman LLP in Detroit, Michigan, where he served as an Associate in the firm’s Real Estate Law department.

Please join me in welcoming, Andrew, home to Notre Dame. We are thrilled to have him as the newest member of our team!

Kasey O’Connor

Farewell and Thank You to Noell Stohler

Dear colleagues,

With thanks for 10 years of dedicated ND service, we announce the departure of Noell Stohler for a position as Recruiter for TalentSource Staffing. Noell’s last day with UR in the role of Assistant Manager of the DC Team will be 08.19.21.

We are grateful for Noell’s contributions to Development throughout the last campaign, particularly her dedication to the team throughout the pandemic. While she will be missed, please join us in wishing Noell all the best on her new career path.

Note that the position will be posted shortly; if interested in knowing more, feel free to contact me at ltinkey@nd.edu.

Lori Ehrman Tinkey

Welcome to Gift Planning, Sarah Wodrich!

It is my pleasure to welcome Sarah Wodrich, pronounced Woodrich, to the Gift Planning team as our newest Gift Planning Officer. Sarah’s first day is Monday, August 9, and she will be partnering with fundraisers in the Northwest and Southwest Regions.

Sarah is an alum of Indiana University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Criminal Justice and earned her Juris Doctor at the University of Kentucky.

Sarah comes to Notre Dame from a successful career at Sanders Pianowski LLP in Elkhart. At Sanders Pianowski LLP, Sarah focused on estate planning, estate administration, and labor and employment laws. She lives in Osceola with her husband, Eric, and their son, Calvin.

 

Rich Naponelli

 

Welcome to the East Coast Region, Austin Gammage!

Dear Colleagues,

Please join me in welcoming Austin Gammage to the East Coast Region as a Regional Director serving the Atl/Car market.

Prior to joining the East Coast, Austin was an Associate Director for our Annual Giving team. Austin also previously served as the Manager of Business Development for the City of South Bend where he worked on projects such as the new Turbomachinery facility and Innovation Park. He grew up in South Bend, graduated from Ball State University in 2012, and received his Master’s from Bowling Green State University in 2017.

Austin and his wife, Katrina, have two children Kyra (11) and their newest edition Oakley (9 months). We are so excited to have Austin and his family join our team! The best is yet to come!

Thanks,
George W.

Best Wishes to Ashley Baranowski

Colleagues,

I write to share that Ashley Baranowski has accepted a new role as Program Director with the Inspired Leadership Initiative here at Notre Dame starting on August 9th.

We are very grateful for Ashley’s many contributions these past 2 years to our team and the Cavanaugh Council and President’s Circle programs including: her incredible work on our annual impact report, especially this past year as we transitioned to a digital format; coordination and relationships with students including our CCPC scholars; her work with our mentorship program; and her partnership with the Central and Illinois regions.

Please join me in congratulating Ashley on her new role and wishing her all the best in this next chapter!

If you were working with Ashely on any projects or have any questions, please contact me or Jen Odell.

Thank you,
Mary Jane Añón

Farewell to Julia Onghetich

It is with mixed emotions that I share Julia Onghetich’s decision to devote her energies to being a full time mother to her sons Tim and Nile. You may know that Julia and her husband Bob, who graduated from the Notre Dame Law School in 2020, have already relocated to Indianapolis. I say mixed emotions because we are happy for Julia to be able to spend more time with her family, but will miss her leadership and dedication dearly. Under her leadership, stewardship communications have evolved greatly. She and her team were responsible for quickly making acknowledgments from Fr. John Jenkins and Lou Nanni electronic when COVID required remote work. She was the creator of the latest versions of the Stewardship Report, enhanced financial aid stewardship communications and many other impact communications and reporting significantly. She has also served as an incredible stewardship partner for both Corporate and Foundation Relations.

Julia’s last day on the Stewardship & Donor Relations team will be September 3. If you are interested in learning more about this role as Director for Stewardship Communications, please let me know. We plan to post as soon as possible. Julia is also happy to discuss her role with interested colleagues.

Katherine Lane

Condolences to the Knight Family

Please keep in your thoughts and prayers the family of Danny Knight, whose husband Andrew passed away on Saturday, July 24.

Andrew was a devoted husband and father and a man of deep faith. His loss is felt by all those who had the privilege to meet and know him. Andrew’s obituary can be found here.

Visitation will be this Thursday, July 29, from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM. Andrew’s life will be celebrated on Friday, July 30 at 6:30 PM. Services will take place at Osceola Grace Church, 58343 S. Apple Road, Osceola, IN.

Thank you for your love and support of Danny and her family.

 

-Mark Welch

 

Thank you and Best Wishes, Renee Romanelli!

Dear Colleagues,

It is with mixed emotions that I write to share that Renee Romanelli is resigning as regional director on the New York Metro team. Her last day will be Friday, August 13.

In the two and a half years Renee has served in her role, she has built and strengthened key relationships on behalf of Notre Dame, raised significant resources for our students and represented the University with class. She will be missed.

Please join me in thanking Renee and wishing her well in her next endeavors!

All the best,
Ryan

Welcome, Matt Cannizzo!

I am pleased to announce that Matt Cannizzo has joined the NY Metro team as regional director, effective July 26.

Matt (ND ’94) has served his other alma mater, Seton Hall Preparatory School in West Orange, New Jersey, for the past 24 years. Matt began as the Director of Admission and Financial Aid before being appointed the Dean of Studies and Director of Admission and Financial Aid in 2009, with the division exceeding ambitious enrollment targets annually under his leadership. For the past 7 years, he has led and successfully grown the school’s development efforts as the Director of Institutional Advancement, most recently completing an 8-figure capital campaign that exceeded goal by 25%. Matt and his wife, Sarah, an ND alum, have two children, Nate and Grace.

Please join me in welcoming Matt to our UR team!

All the best,

Ryan

Eddy Street Parking Reminders

With the transitioning back to the office, a few reminders about parking at Eddy Street:

  1. Parking spaces in the area under the building are assigned spots. If you do not have an assigned spot, parking is available in the ESC garage.
  2. Parking in the ESC garage must be above the “bump” on the ramp (no first-floor parking) and not in any reserved spots on the 2nd level.
  3. Parking spaces under the building will periodically be coned off indicating those spots are not available.
  4. The Smart Cars will be moved back into their assigned parking spots under the building later this week. If you use a Smart Car, please return it back to the assigned parking spot.

Any cars that do not abide by these rules, will be ticketed per Eddy Street Building Management.

If you have any questions about parking on Eddy Street, please contact Lana Taylor.

Congratulations and Gratitude for Al Bucci

After nearly 18 years working in service of Our Lady’s mission, Al Bucci has announced his retirement. We offer Al our deep appreciation, gratitude and congratulations.

Al has been an incredible member of the UR Development team. His kindness, leadership and team-focused approach will be missed. Al has developed strong relationships internally and externally with benefactors. His work has left a lasting positive impact at Notre Dame and with the students the University serves. He leaves this role feeling blessed for the opportunity to have worked at Notre Dame and grateful for all his friends and Development colleagues. His last official day will be August 31st.

A 1977 graduate of Notre Dame, Al walked on the football team and still claims he has eligibility left if only offenses would utilize the fullback. He met Marilyn, his wife and a 1978 St. Mary’s College grad, here. They have four children, two who graduated from Notre Dame.

He looks forward to writing more novels and “hanging out a bit.” He promises that whatever he does, it’ll be fun. He added, “I’ll be watching, too, as I know the development office will continue its great success.”

Thank you, Al for all that you have provided in service of Notre Dame for nearly two decades. We wish you all the best that life has to offer as you, literally and figuratively, write these next chapters.

Welcome Steve Orsini!

Dear everyone,

I’m thrilled to announce that Steve Orsini will join the Southern Regional Development team as a Regional Director of Development on July 12th.

Steve brings a love for Notre Dame and a strong background in leadership and development in Athletics, previously serving as Director of Athletics for SMU and prior to that University of Central Florida. Steve earned his BBA in Accounting from Notre Dame and was captain of the 1978 Notre Dame National Championship Football Team.

Steve and his wife Amy are grateful and excited to be moving back to the Notre Dame community. Amy is a South Bend native and they look forward to being close to family here in South Bend. Steve and Amy also have a daughter Angela that lives in Dallas, Texas.

Steve is enthusiastic and energized to serve the mission of Our Lady. As Steve shared with me recently, it’s about “the people, the place and the purpose.” Please join me in extending a warm, SOUTHERN welcome to Steve!

Anne

Welcome, Amelia Thompson!

I am excited to announce Amelia Thompson as the newest regional director on the NY Metro team! Amelia’s joined the team on July 1.

Since 2018, Amelia has led the development efforts for Ballet Memphis as the principal fundraiser on all major gift and individual solicitations, as well as all corporate and foundation grant efforts. Previously, Amelia served in development at Rhodes College and St. Albans School. This will be a homecoming in multiple respects for Amelia, who worked for three years as a buyer for Macy’s in New York City several years after graduating from Notre Dame in 2008. She has stayed connected to the University in a number of ways, including serving on the Black Alumni Board from 2009-2015.

Please join me in welcoming Amelia to the UR team!

Thank you,
Ryan

Best Wishes to Kristen White

I am both excited and saddened to share the news that Kristen White will be leaving the ND Alumni Association. Kristen has accepted a position as Senior Administrative Assistant within the Office of Residential Life. In this role, she will serve as the primary assistant to the members of their leadership team and offer administrative support for their department initiatives and general operation. Kristen’s last day with the NDAA will be Friday, July 2.

Kristen joined our team over 4 years ago as a Reunion Office Assistant and then moved into her current role of Event Coordinator just after the conclusion of the 2017 Reunion event. In her time here, Kristen has worked with nearly all of the class officers in their Reunion planning cycles, generated numerous ideas for our Football Fridays, Leadership Conference and Reunion events and most recently spent time supporting our IrishCompass efforts with the Professional Programs team. Kristen has brought her enthusiasm and commitment to the University’s mission with her and has formed deeply meaningful relationships with so many of us over her time with the NDAA. She will be greatly missed.

Please join me in wishing Kristen happiness and luck as she transitions to this next chapter in her career!

Thank you,
Erin

Prospect Management and Research (PMR) Team Changes: New Faces and Promotions

I am excited to announce changes within the Prospect Management and Research (PMR) team:

Brooke Wenzel is joining the team as a Consultant, working with the East Coast and NY Metro fundraising teams. She moves from her role as the Associate Director, President’s Circle & Cavanaugh Council, on July 1.

Brooke has been with the University for eight years. She started in the Office of Gift Planning where she managed portfolios for three Gift Officers, and then was the point-of-contact for the ND Donor Advised Fund (DAF) program. Most recently Brooke was an incredible asset to the CCPC team. In this role she was critical by enhancing and innovating reporting. She improved membership communications and event registrations. Additionally she served as the liaison to the East Coast and NY Metro regions. Although she will be missed, Mary Jane Anon and the CCPC team are “excited for her new role with PMR and know she will be fabulous in this new capacity where she will continue to add so much value to the greater University Relations team.”

Brooke graduated from the College of St. Benedict with a degree in Biology and received her Masters of Business Administration from Indiana University South Bend. Brooke is looking forward to building on existing relationships with field fundraisers through creative strategy, honing her analytical skills, and learning from the PMR team!

Welcome to the team, Brooke!

***
It is my pleasure to also welcome Kathleen “Katie” O’Friel to the team as a Consultant, working with the Northwest and Southwest fundraising teams. Katie’s first day is July 1.

Katie comes to Notre Dame with Tax client service experience gained at a Big Four accounting firm. More recently she performed Strategic Planning and Market Analysis at a large aerospace communication services corporation. In this role, Katie led development of the annual market outlook analyses and long term strategic & financial plans to assess effective growth strategies. The experience she developed in the corporate world will be beneficial as she applies it in a new and meaningful way at Notre Dame. Katie is starting remotely and relocating to the South Bend area from Maryland in August. Notre Dame has always felt like a second home to her so she is excited to put down roots here. She is really looking forward to getting to know everyone she’ll be working with!

Katie graduated from Notre Dame with a degree in Accounting in 2006 and earned her CPA three years later. She is a proud Bullfrog hailing from Badin Hall and a former Annual Fund Student Caller. As the smallest women’s dorm, Badin Hall is known for being “tiny but mighty” – like our PM team!

Please join me in welcoming Katie!

***
Ben Moeller is promoted to Senior Prospect Research Analyst, effective July 1. As our sole researcher during most of FY21, Ben took his knowledge and skills to evaluate wealth and provide the fundraisers with high quality, insightful wisdom on prospects encouraging them to think Boldly-er about their asks. His expertise, quantity, and quality of research is deserving of this recognition.

Please join me in congratulating Ben!

***
Additional team updates: Kevin McMannis will support Athletics Advancement and Gift Planning, in addition to his current responsibilities (Illinois region and Lead Consultant). Meghan Walsh will support the Central region in addition to her current responsibilities (Southern region and the AsceND project).

The Consultants new fundraising team partnerships will begin on August 1. Please continue to work with your current Consultant until this time while Brooke & Katie are onboarding.

Best Wishes to Lavarr Barnett

It is with mixed emotions that I announce Lavarr Barnett will be leaving the University of Notre Dame and the Southwest team to start his next great adventure. Starting in September, Lavarr will be serving as the Vice President of Investor Relations at Summit Equity Investments, a private equity company based in Los Angeles. The Barnett family will continue to reside in the Michiana area.

Lavarr’s last day will be Friday, July 16. Please join me in congratulating Lavarr on this incredible next step in his career!

Best, Shelby

Welcome to the Southwest team Shaheen Goldrick

I am excited to announce that Shaheen Goldrick will be joining the Southwest team as Regional Director, working with benefactors in Denver. She will be transitioning from her role as the Director of Corporate Relations on July 6.

Shaheen has been with the University for four years and previously was the Director of Business Development at 2020 Women on Boards. She has also been serving as a committee chair for the UR DEIU Task Force since its inception in August 2020.

Shaheen graduated from Notre Dame in 1994 with a degree in Sociology and Gender Studies Concentration.

Welcome to the SouthBEST team, Shaheen!

Best, Shelby

Welcome to the Development Coordinator Team Terrell, Denise, Michelle and Jessica!

It is our pleasure to welcome Terrell Robinson, Denise Moulds, Michelle Jones, and Jessica DeFina to the Development Coordinator team. Terrell, Denise, and Michelle will start on July 1st, and Jessica on July 6th.

 

Terrell comes to us from Eugene, Oregon where he worked extensively in athletics at both the K-12 and collegiate levels. He has a Master of Arts degree in Sports & Athletic Administration from Gonzaga University and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a minor in Business Administration from the University of Oregon. Terrell is looking forward to moving to the Midwest with his wife and 2 children and cannot wait for ND football to begin!

.

Denise joins the team with a collective 14 years of experience at Notre Dame. Most recently, she worked as a HERE Ambassador and was with the Irish 1/Campus Card office for seven years before that as their Business Manager. Denise has a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Western Governors University. She is excited to bring a wide range of administrative and campus experience to Development.

 

Michelle comes to us from Hoosier Environmental Council in Indianapolis where she most recently worked as a Development Associate. She has a Bachelor’s degree from Indiana University, South Bend in Sustainability Studies with a Minor in History. Michelle is excited about being able to bring her development experience to Notre Dame.

 

Jessica comes to us from campus where she worked as an Event Specialist for Venue ND. She is also a Certified Wedding Planner. She has a Bachelor’s degree from Indiana University, Bloomington in Tourism and Hospitality. Jessica is excited about this career change which will allow her to enjoy free weekends with her new son and husband.

 

Please join us in welcoming Terrell, Denise, Michelle, and Jessica!

 

Angie, Noell, Anita, and Deena

Best wishes and Happy retirement Janet Jessup

UR Team-

Our extraordinary colleague, Janet Jessup, will be retiring next week. Janet has been an incredible member of the UR Development team. Her warmth, teamwork, leadership, and presence will be deeply missed. Janet has built strong relationships internally and externally with benefactors and leaves a beautiful legacy, as her contributions will be valued and remembered.

Janet is Notre Dame through and through — a grad, employee, married to a grad and ND Mom — and I’m confident we will see Janet around town and on-campus, whether at a yoga class, a long walk or cheering on the Irish on gameday. Upon retirement, Janet and her husband Scott are headed on a month-long, cross-country, camping adventure.

Please join me in congratulating Janet as she moves on to this next phase of life. Congratulations Janet!

Cheers!
Anne

Summer professional development opportunities through HR

Dear Colleagues,

We hope you join us for one of our upcoming professional development opportunities! These include:

  • NEW! Trello for Admins: An Introduction – TAP Alumni
  • NEW! Unleashing your Bounce Back Factor – Leveraging Energy Management to Increase Resilience
  • NEW! Emotional Intelligence
  • NEW! Next Steps with the Predictive Index
  • NEW! Getting the Most Out of LinkedIn
  • NEW! The Paradox of Growth in Adversity: A Multi-Disciplinary Approach to Posttraumatic Growth
  • Managing My Career at Notre Dame
  • ND Essentials for Managing People
  • StrengthsFinder: Identifying & Capitalizing on Your Talents
  • Personal & Professional Branding at Work
  • Better Conversations Every Day (Coaching for Supervisors/Managers)
  • Multipliers by Franklin Covey
  • We are All ND
  • Capitalizing on Your Work & Relationships with the Predictive Index

Learn more about these Learning Programs LINKED HERE.

Corporate Relations Team Update

George Mandarakas is no longer on the Corporate Relations team. If you were working with George on any projects, please contact CR Interim Senior Director Josh Tullis for a project transition plan. Also, we will be looking to refill this position. If you are interested in this role or would like to know more, please reach out to Josh Tullis or Tara Gilchrist.

– Josh Tullis

ESC HVAC system

Hi everyone,

We have been working with Kite on evaluating the HVAC system in ESC. As some may have noticed, we have had issues with the A/C over the past couple of weeks.

The service provider is working on the situation but due to the expected temperatures today (90 degrees), we have been notified that the office temp today will be toasty! Ideal for January, not June.

They are working on the situation but do not anticipate getting the HVAC back online today. If you must be in the office today, please do not adjust the thermostats, and most importantly, STAY HYDRATED!

Thanks!

Lana

Announcing Larry Helmsing’s Retirement

Colleagues,

The Development Information Technology and Services team is excited though saddened to announce the retirement of Larry Helmsing. Over the past 10 years in Development, Larry has advanced our IT infrastructure and services that have moved us forward in ways that often go unnoticed. For those of us that have worked directly with Larry, we will miss such a valuable team member who lived out Notre Dame’s mission every day.

Larry’s last day will be Friday May 28th. Please contact Andrew Yocum or submit a service now ticket for anything you might have contacted Larry for in the past. We are currently reviewing candidates for replacing this position. Please join us in thanking Larry for many years of faithful service and wish him a wonderful snowy retirement.

– Andrew Yocum

Farewell Maribeth Spittler

Colleagues,

It is with mixed emotions that I announce the resignation of Maribeth Spittler from the University of Notre Dame effective Friday, May 14, 2021. Maribeth has decided to retire to enjoy time with family, friends, and life! Maribeth has been an integral part of Notre Dame Development for the past twelve years. Her contributions, hard work, commitment, dedication, and grace are worthy of admiration. Maribeth will be greatly missed by all. Filling her shoes will be an almost impossible task. Maribeth is a friend, and I wish her all the luck in the future. Please join me in wishing Maribeth well in this next chapter of her life!

God Bless and Go Irish!

Anita Sareen

Welcome Vahid Sadrzadeh!

I am excited to announce that Vahid Sadrzadeh has joined the NY Metro team as a regional director, working with benefactors in New York.

Since 2016, Vahid has worked as an award-winning anchor, reporter and storyteller at ABC57 in South Bend. He is proud to call Notre Dame home and feels called to serve this mission. Vahid is married to University Relations’ own Heather Sadrzadeh of the Alumni Association. Fun facts: Vahid is an Ironman triathlete and a four-time marathon finisher!

Please join me in welcoming Vahid to the UR team.

Thank you,
Ryan

Welcome Nadia Erickson!

I am excited to announce that Nadia Erickson has joined the Southwest team as regional director, working with benefactors in Southern California. She starts on Monday, May 3rd.

Nadia joins us from a long career in athletics. She previously served as the DePaul University Head Coach for Women’s Volleyball for seven years and spent the last four years focusing on helping student-athletics and their families navigate the recruiting process for intercollegiate athletics.

Nadia graduated from Penn State in 2001 with a degree in Business Marketing and received her Master’s in Sports Administration from Northwestern University in 2019. While at Penn State, Nadia played volleyball and won a National Championship.

I am thrilled to welcome Nadia to the Notre Dame family and the Southwest team. Please join me in welcoming her to the UR team!

Best,

Shelby

Farewell to Mary Frank

I write today to share the news that Mary Frank will be leaving the University of Notre Dame to return to her former vocation as a high school English teacher for the Fairfax County Public School system. Mary joined the University as a Regional Development Coordinator in the summer of 2019, alongside her fiancé Conor White, a ’21 graduate of the MBA program. Mary and Conor plan to marry in June.

Mary has been an amazing colleague who will be missed by her fundraisers as well as the entire DC team. Please join me in wishing her all the best as she moves on to the next chapter of her life. Her final day will be April 30.

God Bless and Go Irish!

Angie Dennig

Congratulations Pablo Martinez and Sorin Society Team

Colleagues,

Please join me in congratulating Pablo Martinez and his appointment as the Director of our newly formed Sorin Society Giving team. This team is charged with the growth of Sorin Society membership and revenue, as well as the marketing, stewardship, and experiences offered to the members of Notre Dame’s largest giving society.

Pablo has been a valued member of the Annual Giving team for 10 years, leading initiatives and programs including the Phone Center, reunion giving, matching gifts, and Notre Dame Day in that timeframe. Most recently, Pablo has served as an Associate Director of Development focusing on individual asks for giving society gifts, this year alone raising $380k in incremental unrestricted dollars as well as a leadership gift for financial aid. A 2011 Notre Dame graduate, Pablo got his start as a student caller in the Phone Center.

The newly formed Sorin Society team will consist of:

Conor Montijo, who continues to oversee the operations, mass solicitation, lead generation, and stewardship experience of the Sorin Society. Conor is also the primary contact for Regional Directors on Sorin Society renewal, new, and upgrade asks; Austin Gammage and Leah Corachea as Leadership Annual Giving officers focused on driving incremental unrestricted growth through individual fundraising; and Darlean Vance, Donor Experience Coordinator. Dar provides frontline customer service via email and phone for members of all giving societies.

Please reach out to any of these fine colleagues with any questions regarding the Sorin Society.

Best,
Brian

Celebrating Holy Week & Easter on Campus

This year’s Triduum services (Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday, Celebration of the Lord’s Passion on Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday) will be held in the Purcell Pavilion at the Joyce Center instead of the Basilica to safely accommodate as many members of the campus community as possible.

Attendance to these Triduum services will be ticketed by assigned seat only. With a limited number of seats available, all tickets will be distributed to students followed by faculty and staff, as space allows.

Now that the student ticket request timeline has passed, tickets are available to faculty and staff. As space allows, faculty and staff have the opportunity to request two tickets which will allow them to be joined by a family member from their household. Please note that the two tickets will not be adjoining seats but rather be separated by a few empty seats per safety protocol.

The faculty and staff ticket request form will be open from 8 a.m. Thursday, March 25 through 5 p.m. Monday, March 29, or until capacity has been reached. This form will be available on the Campus Ministry website.

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart will offer an adjusted Mass schedule and implement a reservation request system for Easter Sunday. The request form will open at 8 a.m. on March 22 and close at noon on March 24.

Visit campusministry.nd.edu/holyweek-easter for complete details.

Upcoming Ivy Tech Staff Benefit Information Session- March 25

The University of Notre Dame offers many programs designed to encourage personal and career development to enhance individual success while strengthening the talent base for the University.

The Ivy Tech Learning at Work program is a fully-funded benefit that offers an accelerated curriculum to enable regular full-and part-time staff to earn an Associate’s Degree in two years.

If someone you know is interested in learning how to earn an Associate Degree of Applied Science (AAS) in Business Administration or a Business Administration technical certificate from Ivy Tech for free while maintaining their work schedule, please encourage them to attend the upcoming virtual information session.

*****

Virtual Ivy Tech Information Session (classes begin Summer 2021)
Thursday, March 25, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.

REGISTER FOR SESSION HERE SESSION EVENT POSTER

For more information, contact askHR – askHR@nd.edu or 631-5900

*****

Best Wishes to Nathan Utz

It is with mixed emotions that I write to share that after 9 1/2 years as a member of our development team, Nathan Utz will be leaving Notre Dame to assume the position of Vice President for Industry Partnerships at Purdue University effective December 14, 2020. Special thanks to Nathan for his tireless efforts as the inaugural academic advancement director in the College of Engineering, and for his 4 1/2 years as the senior director of corporate relations. Under Nathan’s leadership, corporate relations has had several record years of production. Please join me in thanking Nathan for his service and congratulating him on his new role as a Boilermaker.

I would also like to announce that Josh Tullis has accepted the role of Interim Senior Director of Corporate Relations. Josh has been an integral member of our corporate relations team for the past four years, and led our pioneering efforts to establish the Notre Dame – IBM Tech Ethics Lab with an historic grant of $20M from IBM in 2020. He earned his BS from ND in 1996 and his Ph.D. in Synthetic Organic Chemistry from ND in 1999. Special thanks to Josh for taking on this important role.

-Drew Buscareno

Fall Interns – Accepting Project Proposals and Student Referrals

Colleagues,

We are grateful for the 101+ colleagues who directly engaged with summer interns through June and July. Special thanks to UR Leadership, those who served as supervisors/mentors, and all Zoom presenters. This generous investment yielded a transformative experience.

Due to summer impact, with the directive and support of Lou and UR Leadership, we are pleased to expand (extend existing & create new) centrally-funded internships for the coming academic year.

Click here to submit a project proposal for a Fall Intern

This semester we are seeking talent from all academic levels for students who will bring to our teams diverse perspectives, dedication to their work, and a mission driven spirit.

Let us know if you have any questions on submitting a project proposal or have student referrals, 

Bryan Reaume and Mary Flynt

Eddy Street Parking – Reminder

Beginning this Monday, June 1, 2020 Kite Management will have Parking Garage Management back on site in Eddy Street Commons. They will begin enforcing the parking in both the garage and around Eddy Street. Just as a reminder, all employees should be parking on the 2nd floor of the parking garage.

 

 

Welcome Maverick Joseph Morton

Bob Morton and his wife Heather announce that their 4th child, Maverick Joseph, was born Wednesday morning, May 27th.

Maverick arrived at 5 am at 8lbs, 9oz, and was 21 inches long.

Mom, baby and family are doing great.

Welcome to the UR family, Maverick!

Katie Engel named Director, Prospect Research

Dear Colleagues,

I am excited to announce that Katie Engel has been promoted to the position of Director, Prospect Research effective immediately. Katie has served as an integral member of the research team since she started at the University in July of 2018.

In addition to leading the prospect research team in her new role, Katie will be responsible for establishing the future vision of the team as we finish the Boldly Campaign and prepare for campaign 9. Along with other key priorities, Katie and her team will be instrumental in developing the prospect pipeline, leading efforts around education and training for the fundraisers regarding high-impact research questions that can be used during visits, and driving strategy around best practices for wealth research (technology, tools, practices, etc.). Through this role, Katie will work to implement a new set of innovative, creative, donor-centric and transformative initiatives that elevate the team’s contribution to the overall goals of the department.

Katie is a graduate of Pepperdine University, where she earned a BA in English, and Rochester Institute of Technology, where she earned a MS in Public Policy. Prior to coming to Notre Dame, Katie worked in legal writing and research. In her free time, Katie enjoys running and cycling. She hopes to one day qualify for the Olympic Trials in the marathon! Please join me in congratulating her as she embarks on the next phase of her career in serving Notre Dame.

We will look to post Katie’s former position of Research Analyst in the coming days. Please contact Katie or Tara if you have an interest in discussing the position.

All my best,

Brad

Earn Your Degree While You Work – AAS in Business Administration

Earn Your Degree While You Work

Earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Business Administration through Ivy Tech Community College and Human Resources’ Learning at Work Academy Program.

Join us at an INFORMATION SESSION to learn more.

Ivy Tech Information Session
Wednesday, March 11, 2020
3:00 – 4:00 p.m.
W106 Duncan Student Center
RSVP to askHR@nd.edu or 1-5900

Additional Info Session Details

 

 

New HR & OIT learning programs available

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

Winter/Spring professional development programs are now available LINKED HERE. These offerings can help you strengthen your skills and develop new ones. You’ll find programs in: Career Development, Communication and Interpersonal Skills, Diversity and Inclusion, Professional Skills and Tools, and Supervision and Leadership.

Click HERE to see the full listing of these programs as well as additional training and professional development opportunities.

**

ONLINE LEARNING via Skillport.nd.edu

Explore professional development opportunities that let you learn on your own schedule. Search a topic and find courses, videos and books to help you build your career at: skillport.nd.edu

**

SHARPEN YOUR TECHNICAL SKILLS WITH OIT TRAINING

Find a variety of classes on Google products, Adobe Creative Cloud apps, Tableau, Qualtrics, and more. The complete schedule of classes and Lunch & Learn series can be found at: oit.nd.edu/training.

ND Shares: Religious Diversity | Thanks and Recording

Thank you to Shaheen Goldrick and the Diversity and Inclusion Committee for inviting professors Mun’im Sirry and Gabriel Reynolds to speak for the December ND Shares: Religious Diversity.

We had an engaged audience in the Family Room as we learned more about the key pillars of the Muslim faith and the nuances that exist within its global practice. As one might expect from such distinguished experts, their discussion provided the perfect balance of personal reflection, thought provoking points, and succinct descriptions we could readily remember.

You can watch the recording of this ND Shares HERE.

We hope to continue discussions on religious diversity present within our division so if you’d like to participate please reach out to Shaheen, Mary or Bryan.

**

During this talk, Mun’im and Gabriel reference their podcast, Minding Scripture. For anyone interested, here is the link: Minding Scripture Podcast

New Session Dates Announced for We Are All ND and Multicultural Competencies & Hiring Game Changers

HR just announced a new set of dates for two widely attended classes: We Are All ND and Multicultural Competencies and Hiring Game Changers at ND. See more details below about each session – sign up through Endeavor.nd.edu 

We Are All ND

  • This half day workshop for staff is being offered to those not currently in a supervisory role. Please register for and attend We Are All ND in an effort to allow each and every member of our community to unite behind a common goal as we work to cultivate a spirit of inclusion at Notre Dame.
  • 2020 sessions: 1/17, 1/29, 2/14, 3/4, 3/25, 4/7, 4/22, and 5/5

Multicultural Competencies and Hiring Game Changers at ND – for managers and staff supervisors

  • During this workshop, we will define our Diversity and Inclusion Strategic Plan, explain multicultural competencies and discuss their benefits to Notre Dame, as well as, behaviors that can negatively influence campus climate and your team dynamics. Focus then shifts to Hiring Game Changers. Information will be provided on how to attract, identify, recruit, and hire top talent that is motivated to competently move your organization forward. Learn how to create an unbiased performance-based hiring strategy that can increase your percentage of landing the best candidates in the pool.
  • 2020 sessions: 1/8, 2/3, 2/24, 3/16, 4/27, and 5/11

 

Alumni Association Year In Review

UR Friends and Colleagues,

I’m excited to share our 2018-19 Alumni Association Year In Review, which highlights the initiatives and programs we had the opportunity to lead, participate in, and partner on during the past fiscal year. Hard copies are being distributed to the PLC and Deans, current and former Alumni Board members, ND club presidents, and advisory council members.

To view a PDF version, please visit the following link: https://drive.google.com/a/nd.edu/file/d/1JRLNir2TUcyG5QpkA6_W3dn2ww7t8XA3/view?usp=sharing 

Thanks for your continued partnership and support of the Alumni Association.

All the best,
Dolly

Dolly Duffy – Associate VP & Executive Director of Alumni Association

Welcome Kaylee Wolf to Special Events!

University Enterprises and Events and the Special Events Team is excited to welcome Kaylee Wolf as Assistant Director of Special Events who began on Monday, August 19. Kaylee will focus on operations and logistics for the Special Events team along with supporting the execution of events for key leaders and benefactors.

She is a native of Elkhart, IN, and most recently worked at the University of Notre Dame Counseling Center where her colleagues have said she is going to be missed and her organizational skills are going to be such an asset to our team. We are thrilled to welcome Kaylee to Special Events and the UEE!

Kaylee loves spending time with her family and enjoying all her young cousins who call her Aunt Kaylee. She also enjoys reading, attending concerts, traveling, and exploring what Michiana has to offer on any given weekend.

Please join us in welcoming Kaylee to the team!

-Stephanie Mead

Professional Development Plan (PDP) Launch

UR Team,

Thank you all so much for your energy and participation at Summit last week! It was my first one, and I really enjoyed it.

I am following up with some details on the Professional (or Personal) Development Plan (PDP) that was presented during the ND Voice section. As I mentioned last week, many corporations utilize PDPs to empower employees to take a very active role in their career progression. The purpose of crafting a PDP is twofold: first, it provides a useful roadmap that outlines strengths, areas of opportunity, as well as available resources; and second, it facilitates more meaningful career discussions with leaders throughout the division and the University. With these benefits in mind, we are excited to launch a year-long PDP pilot.

We ask every member of the UR team to complete a PDP by the end of September. After completing your initial plan, we encourage you to have conversations with your manager, as well as leaders in the division and beyond, to continue refining your PDP.

[Below] is a document that provides additional details, as well as a template PDP (my initial draft) to begin completing for yourself. Please feel free to enlarge or reduce the ‘boxes’ in the template to meet your personal needs.

If you have any questions or concerns completing the document, feel free to reach out to James Riley, Bryan Reaume, or me.

We will collect your feedback over the course of the year to improve the document and your experience.

Many thanks,
Heather

Heather Christophersen – Associate Vice President, Advancement Services

  Link to PDP Description  |  Link to PDP Template 

Fall 2019 Learning and Organizational Development Programs

To help you strengthen and develop new skills to build your career, the Office of Human Resources offers staff professional development opportunities every semester. Click here to see the newly unveiled Fall 2019 offerings. The fall programming will cover topics such as:

If you’re looking for additional professional development options that give you the opportunity to learn on your own schedule, you can explore Skillport.nd.edu today. Search a topic, take a course, view videos, and choose from a variety of books to read to help you develop the skills you need to build your career.

Check out the lineup of Learning Programs and Series at our Learning and Organizational Development website or click on the calendar to the left to see what’s being offered by date.

 

Enrollment: to register for Learning Programs, log in to Endeavor.