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Class Notes
Future Domers
Kathleen and Dave Wesner, both MBA graduates from the class of 2001, celebrated the arrival of their daughter, Kate Elizabeth, born on June 16, 2014.
Class Notes
In Memoriam
The legacy of several noteworthy graduates from the class of 1956 is remembered through heartfelt tributes. Richard Barnett and Michael F. Carr were influential figures in real estate and investment management, respectively, both dedicating their lives to their professions and families. Other alumni like Bernard G. Kosse and John R. "Jack" McCartan left lasting impacts as devoted community members and mentors. John Schiltz is celebrated for his commitment to family and his contributions to a family business. Each of these individuals is remembered for their unique accomplishments and the love they shared with their families.
Salt and Light
Jamie O'Brien: Cultivating Children
Jamie O'Brien, a Mendoza accountancy professor, has formed a heartfelt connection with Farm of the Child, an orphanage in Honduras, despite never visiting the country. In his role as chair of development, O'Brien is focused on fundraising efforts to support the mission of providing safety and care for children orphaned or abandoned in a region plagued by violence and poverty. His journey began through his teaching and student interactions, leading him to assist the organization more deeply, reflecting his commitment to pro-life advocacy and helping vulnerable communities.
Salt and Light
John Weber: The Importance of Being Turtles
John Weber, affectionately known as "Weebs," has transformed a simple summer activity with his grandchildren into a thriving community known as the Turtle Club. Founded on principles of fun, kindness, and reflection, the club now boasts over a thousand members, many of whom are current and former Notre Dame students. With monthly social events that foster connection and camaraderie, the Turtle Club not only nurtures friendships but also serves as a reminder to recognize the often-overlooked support networks that enrich our lives.
Salt and Light
Karen Hildebrandt: Quiet Hero
In a heartfelt story from Mendoza, Karen Hildebrandt feels compelled to donate a kidney to Rebecca, a woman struggling with kidney disease. Inspired by her own family's experience with illness, particularly her husband Larry's battle with cancer, Hildebrandt reflects on the support they received during difficult times. After discovering Rebecca's plea on a billboard, she takes a leap of faith and begins the process of becoming a donor, motivated by a desire to impact someone's life positively.
Salt and Light
Karen Slaggert: Suffer the Little Children
The Tapachula prison in southern Mexico operates with communal living arrangements, where families often stay together amidst dire circumstances. Karen Slaggert, associate director of the Gigot Center for Entrepreneurship, shares the troubling environment for children living within the prison but points to a hopeful initiative by Mission on the Move. This organization, founded by an American couple, provides care for up to 60 children from incarcerated parents, helping them pursue education and a brighter future. Slaggert, who has volunteered with the mission for a decade, describes the challenging yet rewarding work of cooking and caring for the children, emphasizing the
Alumni Community
Kenn Ricci: Like Father, Like Son
Kenn Ricci recalls the early challenges faced by his son, Austin, who was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis as a baby. Now 12, Austin manages his condition with treatment and leads an active life, while exciting advancements in research are promising for the future. Ricci, a successful entrepreneur, has dedicated substantial efforts to supporting cystic fibrosis research, including a significant gift to foster studies at a leading hospital, and has been recognized for his fundraising efforts that have made a considerable impact on the community.
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Kristin Collett-Schmitt: To Honor Mackenzie
Seven weeks before her twin daughters were born, Kristen Collett-Schmitt faced devastating news when one of the babies, Mackenzie, was found to have no heartbeat. Following a harrowing delivery, surviving twin Harper quickly began her fight in the neonatal intensive care unit. Now a vibrant 4-year-old, Harper inspires her family to support others facing similar challenges through donations of preemie clothes and fundraising for the Mackenzie Taylor Schmitt Memorial Fund, honoring her late sister while celebrating Harper's journey.
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Maggie Neenan-Michel: Born to Run
Maggie Neenan-Michel, a dedicated greyhound rescue advocate, balances her love for dogs with her role at Mendoza while sharing her journey in helping transition racing greyhounds into family pets. Through All Star Greyhounds, she has successfully matched dozens of dogs with loving families in the South Bend area, fostering a community around this important cause. Neenan-Michel's ongoing efforts, including fundraising at Notre Dame hockey games, have contributed to significant decreases in euthanasia rates for these gentle breeds.
Salt and Light
Mike Mannor: New Hope for Down Syndrome
Dame community, dedicate their efforts to raising funds and awareness for Down syndrome research through engaging events like A Night of Art & Blues. After receiving a prenatal diagnosis for his daughter Sophia, Mike Mannor turned his personal journey into a professional mission, connecting students with Research Down Syndrome to tackle real-world strategic initiatives. Mannor emphasizes the potential of recent advances in research, aiming to improve the lives of individuals with Down syndrome while fostering community involvement and learning.