July 9 Presidential Update

Dear colleagues,

In this week’s update we have a couple of short information points for you. I hope this message finds you well. Although we have had marvelous summer weather in Minnesota, other parts of the country have experienced some pretty severe conditions. For those of you who may be living in areas across the country affected by tropical storm Elsa along the Gulf Coast and Florida or the searing heat wave in the northwest and west, we have had you in our thoughts and prayers. Stay safe and be well!

Athletic Director appointment

Please join me in congratulating Merissa Edwards on being selected as the Interim Athletic Director! Merissa has been serving as the Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance and Business and has broad experience with NCAA, conference and institutional athletic requirements and changes. She has been integral in our response to COVID and in our transition to the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) which officially occurred on July1. Given the turnover this position has seen during the last four years, she brings history and stability to the department along with a commitment to advance the current Athletic Strategic Plan, and the department’s other initiatives. We are excited about her leadership, and look forward to an amazing year. Please come out and support Saints Athletics!

Welcome Bishop Felton!

This week Sr. Beverly Raway, Prioress, invited me to an official greeting with Bishop Felton, who was recently installed as Bishop of the Duluth Diocese. Accompanying us on the visit were Dr. Herman, CEO Essentia, Jerry Carley, CEO of Benedictine Health and Lori Collard, Chair of the Sponsor Council. We had a very engaging and enjoyable discussion, and Bishop Felton expressed his strong support for the College and our mission. We plan to have the Bishop visit the Duluth campus in September for a tour and meetings with Mission Integration and our Campus Ministry team.

Take care and enjoy the summer!

Barbara