Memories and Meaning

We reached out to alumnae/i across generations with a simple question: “What does Dominican University/Rosary College mean to you?” Here is what some had to say:

“I always felt that the Rosary College faculty challenged us academically to expand our thinking, to search for new possibilities and to strive for excellence. They demanded a high quality of work. The college also provided a variety of spiritual and cultural opportunities—always alert to current political trends and religious questions. The attitude of the faculty expecting the best has had a lasting effect on what I expect of myself, whether in academic or volunteer projects. Keeping in touch with my loyal college friends has always inspired me with how they meet challenges, exhibit courage and reach out to others with compassion.”
–Kathleen Anglese Giamalva ’60

“I loved my years at Rosary College! Several experiences and classes helped shape me. The primary experience was my junior year in Fribourg, Switzerland. The entire year was so well-planned and executed. Our travels enriched my entire life. The Dominican Sisters taught us as we traveled, and I learned so much about the world. Their knowledge of the history and culture of the countries and cities we visited still impresses me. It was a year I treasure and certainly made me into a person who loves new experiences and history.

“I also appreciated two classes and the knowledge I gained deepened my faith and strengthened my love of art. The Bible Study course taught me appreciation of our faith and its origins.  The Art Appreciation class was a time I looked forward to every week and certain pieces of art still inspire me. I was educated by the Sinsinawa Dominicans from first grade through my years at Rosary College. I was given the ability to respect individuals and learn from them. I also credit my ability to problem-solve and love learning to their guidance and encouragement.”
–Mary Langlois Tyler ’68

“Dominican University is an academic home which nurtures and stimulates scholars to live with love and truth as foundational values, to create a future inspired by their dreams, and to always pay it forward. I know this is true as I was one of those scholars.” 
–Donna E. Renn ’68

“Way back in 1949, when I was just an infant, my father saw two Dominican Sisters waiting for a bus on Lake Street and offered them a ride.  He drove them to Rosary College and they gave my dad and me a quick tour of the campus. They took me to the Register’s Office and signed me up.  I’m not sure, but I may have been the first student recruited for the class of 1972!” 
–Joan Hopkins ’72, MLS ’73

“The best thing about a Dominican experience is the relationships you will make. Our God is a God of relationships, and that is lived out every day. I also went to Trinity High School, which is just a little bit east of here, and I got to know the Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters exceedingly well. And in fact, I am an associate of the Sinsinawa Dominicans now. The Dominican Sisters and my educational experiences here shaped who I was meant to be.”
–Pat Harnett Farrell ’71

“At Rosary in 1967, I experimented with playing guitar with my friend Rita at masses. Today I still play at spiritual events. Rita and I also cofounded the coffeehouse in the basement connecting halls. We ran that for two years. That is where I began singing folks songs and writing music. I now have five albums of music and I continue to write positive affirmation and uplifting songs.”
–Alicia Merlady Bonnet ’71

“Rosary gave us the courage to speak our minds. …We continue looking to preserve the values that Rosary really wanted us to have: Caritas Veritas, being open to ideas, being open to other people and trying to make things better, wherever we are.”
–Peggy Rohr Duran ’71

“I met so many wonderful people at Rosary. I made use of the radio station WROC with a show every Sunday from 7-10. I was part of RAM and the Gospel Chorus, and I enjoyed working in the kitchen and working all of Sr. Candida’s dinner parties. I was also a Life Saver—I loved taking new students around the campus. It was truly my home for five wonderful years.” 
–Leonard Lloyd ’81

“Dominican University has always meant opportunity to me. Looking back over the years, I have come to appreciate even more how deeply Dominican contributes to society and to the communities around it. As a student, I remember participating in a program connected with Arthur Andersen, helping low-income families in Chicago prepare their taxes. At the time, it was simply part of my university experience; years later, I realized how much it reflected Dominican’s commitment to service and community.

“I have also seen the important role Dominican University has played within Chicago’s Hispanic community, creating opportunities for people who might otherwise have had fewer of them. In many ways, that idea of opportunity is also part of my own story.

“I was very fortunate to receive the support of Dominican’s soccer program, which helped make it possible for me to pursue my studies there. That opportunity had a lasting impact on my life and career. But what I remember most warmly are the people. The staff at Dominican was always there for us, and I also remember professors who went far beyond what was expected, offering extra help after class and genuinely caring about our progress. That kind of personal commitment made a lasting impression on me. Whenever I look back at Dominican, I do so with tremendous gratitude, pride and affection. Dominican gave me an opportunity, surrounded me with people who genuinely cared and taught me the importance of creating opportunities for others.” 
–Klaus Thalmann Ramos ’98, MBA ’00 

“What shaped me personally and professionally is really the culture here at Dominican. I think it's the sense of belonging, the sense of feeling like you're in a place where your professors support you, where everyone wants to see you succeed. We know from research that sense of belonging and purpose are really key to students’ later success, and I think what’s really wonderful about Dominican. It really is in our DNA, and you can trace that back to the charism of the Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa and the culture that they built here that we are all fortunate to carry on in our own ways today.”
–Bronwyn McDaniel ’01

“Dominican means where our story started. I met my husband here as an undergrad and our kids have visited campus many times. For us, this is chapter one.” 
–Kate Murray ’03, MAT ’07

“Some of my fondest memories will always be from my time at Dominican. It’s where I learned so much, not only about where I wanted my path in life to lead and to become more independent, but also where I made my most steadfast friendships. It is also what led me to my now husband, and in turn, our son. It’s a large enough campus to have the ‘college life’ feel, but small enough where you can feel more connected to professors and know more of your classmates.” 
–Nicole Donatello Trefilek ’04

“As I celebrate my retirement, I’ve been reflecting on the milestones that shaped my path. Dominican University was a massive catalyst for my success. Years ago, despite having many credits, I hadn't yet finished my bachelor's degree. Working full-time at Home Depot while raising growing children, I wanted to lead by example and show them the power of higher education. Dominican provided the flexible evening and weekend classes I needed to make that happen. Balancing work, family and studies wasn't easy, but earning that degree unlocked opportunities that were previously out of reach. It provided priceless security for my family and established a strong financial foundation that I am incredibly grateful for as I step into retirement.” 
–Beth Hassett ’09

“Dominican University will always hold a very special place in my heart. I graduated with a double major in psychology and sociology, and when I think back on my time at Dominican, I remember the incredible professors who made learning meaningful, the amazing friendships I made during my four years there and all of the little moments that made campus feel like home even while being a fulltime commuter. One of my favorite memories was spending countless days and evenings studying in the chapel, especially during those long study sessions when we were all trying to survive college together! I also have such fond memories of hanging out in the café before it was modernized and updated. Those simple moments with friends are some of the memories I treasure most.

“Dominican gave me more than an education. It gave me friendships, memories, confidence and a foundation that has stayed with me throughout my career and life. I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of the Dominican community and proud to be a 2010 graduate. Happy 125th Anniversary, Dominican University!” 
–Daisy Franco ’10