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Alumni Community
Aedan Lingane-Fortes, a gifted graduate of Mendoza College, passed away on September 5, 2015, after a brave fight against brain cancer. Remembered for his sharp intellect and artistic talents, he was a valuable member of the Notre Dame community. Patrick Snyder, a distinguished lawyer and judge, died on April 22, 2015, leaving behind a legacy of impactful cases and fond memories as a loving grandfather. Robert A. "Bob" Richard and Michael H. McDonald, both from the Class of 1956, also left a mark, with McDonald receiving
Mendoza Profiles
Germany. Alexa Monn, a junior majoring in IT management and German, combines her love for technology with her passion for helping people. With aspirations to bridge the gap between tech developers and clients, her optimism about women in technology was bolstered by her recent internship at Textron Systems, where she experienced a supportive environment with female role models. As she prepares for a two-month internship in Bonn, Monn looks forward to exploring the practical applications of IT across different cultures while continuing her journey in language and study abroad.
Jackson Saya Ndonga's journey is a testament to resilience and purpose, marked by extraordinary survival against all odds since infancy. From overcoming serious health challenges to becoming a motivational speaker and business entrepreneur, Ndonga emphasizes the importance of vision and strategy in his work, including his innovative personal development framework called "Think Like a Parasite." Drawing on his experiences, he now leads Akili Consulting, which nurtures mental well-being through nutrition, training, and holistic health approaches, all while crediting his transformative experience at Mendoza for sharpening his focus and expanding his networks.
Salt and Light
John Greenwald's journey from a high school graduate in Ludington, Michigan, to an organizer of a thriving charity music festival illustrates the power of community. After reconnecting with old friends, Greenwald helped establish Ludrock, which has grown from a casual gathering to a major event featuring 52 bands and raising over $100,000 for local charities. With the support of passionate volunteers, Ludrock not only celebrates music but also fosters a sense of unity and dedication to giving back to the beachfront community.
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Karen Kenny's journey after early retirement has led her to a fulfilling new chapter in music and community service. After returning to school to earn her degrees, she discovered a passion for cello at the MacPhail Center for Music and found joy in volunteering with the Giving Voices Chorus, a program for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Despite the personal loss she faced, Kenny is motivated to help expand the program, hoping to bring joy and connection to even more people affected by dementia.
Salt and Light
Kevin Kreutner and his wife, Sheila, navigated a smooth international adoption process that brought their daughter Isabel from Guatemala in 2003, followed by her biological brother Samuel in 2005. Kreutner became deeply involved in the adoption community through Guatadopt.com, providing support and reliable information during turbulent times for Guatemalan adoptions. His passion for Guatemala extended beyond adoption, leading to a role on the board of Behrhorst Partners for Development, now known as ALDEA, where he works to improve living conditions in rural Mayan communities through partnerships that provide vital resources
Lebohang Selloane's commitment to her vision shines through as she prepares to launch Visionary X-rays, a mobile X-ray service aimed at improving healthcare in rural areas of South Africa. After being accepted into the prestigious Mandela Washington Fellowship and gaining invaluable experience at IBM, she's determined to address the healthcare challenges faced by communities vulnerable to occupational lung disease. With a deeply personal drive rooted in her family's history, Selloane is set to make a meaningful impact in her hometown of Kutloanong.
Salt and Light
Marissa Gebhard, a dedicated adviser for the Notre Dame Best Buddies Club, finds deep fulfillment in connecting students with adults who have developmental disabilities. Featuring the inspiring story of Lucas, a long-time Best Buddies participant, the piece reflects on the meaningful relationships fostered through the program and how it provides stability and a sense of community for individuals like him. With a history of mentoring students since 1999, Gebhard values the friendships formed and the ongoing connections with alumni as they pursue their careers.
Salt and Light
Matt Knott (FIN '92) reflects on the important balance between personal ambition and social responsibility. After a successful corporate career at major companies like PepsiCo, he felt drawn to use his skills for a greater cause, leading him to become president of Feeding America, the largest domestic hunger-relief organization. Under his leadership, the organization focuses on reducing food waste and improving connections within the food supply chain, aiming to provide food assistance to millions of Americans each year.
Ask More of Business
Mendoza's MSLA emphasizes inclusion and community by encouraging current students to engage more fully in their college experience. Since its inception in 2013, MSLA has provided resources for academic and career development, connecting students with mentors and organizing events like Dinners with Professors and the annual spring gala. MSLA President Robert Luttrell (FIN/ECON '16) envisions extending this support to alumni, enhancing the legacy for future generations.