© Copyright 2026 University of Notre Dame
Showing 20 of 34 articles
Class Notes
Welcome back to Mendoza Business magazine! This issue invites you to catch up on the latest updates about your classmates—job changes, weddings, new arrivals, and heartfelt remembrances. Don't forget, your news matters too, so take a moment to share your life updates with us!
In Memoriam
Michael Hilger, a dedicated CPA and director of tax for Anschutz Corporation, passed away in January 2016. He was recognized as an outstanding alumnus and actively involved in the Notre Dame community. Other recent passings include Thomas Kershisnik and John Broderick, both veterans and prominent figures in their communities, along with William Weiman, who was notable for his time on the Fighting Irish men's basketball team, and David Wentling, who contributed to various local ventures after his military service. Arthur Perry, an attorney with over 50 years of experience, also recently passed, leaving
Mendoza Profiles
Katherine Merck's journey from a finance major at Notre Dame to becoming Miss Rodeo America 2016 is a testament to her unique passions and resilience. Starting with a childhood love for horses ignited at a YMCA camp, she channeled her dedication into riding and reining competitions. After graduating in 2012, a transformative jaw surgery prompted her to embrace the rodeo queen path, blending her academic background with her passion for the Western lifestyle.
Mendoza News
Pro-social motivation plays a crucial role in enhancing team performance, as shown by recent research from Jasmine Hu and Robert C. Liden. Their studies reveal that employees who are driven by the desire to positively impact others often achieve greater success within work teams compared to those motivated solely by financial incentives or personal satisfaction. The findings suggest that fostering a culture of pro-social behavior can help organizations better motivate their teams to meet complex challenges.
Salt and Light
Mark Faldowski and his West Point football teammate Mike Viti established Legacies Alive to honor Gold Star families after serving in the Army and losing friends in combat. In 2014, they embarked on a 4,496-mile walk from Seattle to Baltimore, visiting Gold Star families along the way to connect them and identify their needs. Their journey aimed to pay tribute to the sacrifices made by service members and provide support to the families left behind.
Mendoza Profiles
For John Doran, leaving Notre Dame comes with mixed emotions, but his new role as a tax accountant at Deloitte in Chicago offers some comfort. Known for his spirited performances as the Fighting Irish leprechaun, Doran reflects on how his unique attributes, from his bright orange hair to his public speaking skills, helped him embody this beloved mascot. As he prepares to transition into his professional life, he cherishes the unforgettable experiences and connections he made while representing Notre Dame across the country.
Mendoza Profiles
Elizabeth Sadler's journey to the Boston Marathon is deeply personal, driven by her bond with her father, John, who inspired her love for running. After his battle with kidney cancer and eventual passing, Sadler joined the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge Team, turning her training into a tribute to him and a shared fight against cancer. The team, made up of over 550 members, has become a supportive community for individuals connected by their experiences with cancer, aiming to raise significant funds for research.
Mendoza News
The Notre Dame MBA program is evolving its entrepreneurship track by incorporating a focus on innovation. The new Innovation & Entrepreneurship MBA track aims to encourage students to apply an entrepreneurial mindset not just in startups, but also within larger organizations that need fresh ideas. Recent updates to the curriculum include new courses that emphasize immersive learning and practical experience, pushing students to rethink traditional problems and develop innovative solutions.
Mendoza Profiles
Laura Glassford, known for her vibrant personality in the Office of Undergraduate Studies, channels her love for music as the lead singer of The Rabbiteers, a rock-and-roll band with fellow Notre Dame faculty. Balancing her administrative role and musical pursuits, Glassford finds joy in performing at local events, bringing a sense of community and authenticity to her passions. From rehearsing in a basement to impromptu dance parties, her story showcases the heart and fun that music adds to life.
College can be a transformative experience, not just for students but also for their parents. Maria Bailey (EMBA '16), who runs a marketing agency and has authored several books, chose to pursue her MBA at Notre Dame while her son, Keenan, navigates his senior year. Both mother and son agreed on certain boundaries to maintain their independence while enjoying the perks of attending school together. With changing student-parent dynamics, having a parent on campus can enhance the college experience, allowing for occasional shared meals and catch-ups amidst busy schedules.