Archive Posts
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From the Gutter Up: How A Young Entrepreneur Grew His Business
Business & LawMichael Fafinski ’25 is an enterprising young man. The University of St. Thomas alumnus who majored in entrepreneurship, launched a landscaping company at age 16. Now, at age 23, he owns a gutter installation business with plans to grow through acquisitions. “I am going to sell this business in a decade or so and leverage…
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How A Love of Storytelling Led to a Dream Job Before Graduation
People & CultureHope Hansen ’24, a University of St. Thomas alumna who double majored in strategic communication and communication studies, has a longtime passion to feed her creative side. It started with dance lessons at age four, leading to years of competitive dance, teaching and judging dance, and landing as choreographer for musical theater camps in her… -
Reclaiming Roots: How This Student’s Hidden Past Is Shaping Her Future
Center for the Common GoodMorgan Whiting ’26 lights up when she meets someone new. She smiles, makes eye contact, and is excited to hear their story. The University of St. Thomas senior’s ability to build an immediate connection comes in handy as the leader of Students for Justice and Peace, an advocacy organization working for equity and justice for all… -
Guided by Mentors, Driven by Mission: One Tommie Roots Career in Purpose
AlumniEshan Varma ’19, a proud graduate of the University of St. Thomas and member of the Alumni Engagement Board, embodies resilience and a commitment to supporting the next generation. Born and raised in Eagan, Minnesota, Varma’s journey is a testament to his adaptability, ambition, and dedication to the values of community and education. Initially attending… -
A Preacher’s Kid: How Bob Shoemake Found His Calling With Older Learners
People & CultureIt wasn’t always easy for Bob Shoemake to connect with older adults. In fact, there was a time in his life when the idea made him uncomfortable. "In my thirties, I didn’t much like being around older people," Shoemake admitted during his retirement celebration at the University of St. Thomas. "I was too impatient to… -
2025 Tommie Award Finalists Reflect on Experiences
Humans of St. ThomasAs the Class of 2025 comes closer to graduating, the Newsroom asked this year’s Tommie Award finalists to share about their time at St. Thomas. Here are their responses. Aidan McGill ’25 What’s your most memorable moment at St. Thomas? The most memorable moment at St. Thomas for me was getting to lead the men’s… -
This Tommie Educator Champions the Restorative Power of Art
Humans of St. ThomasWhen artist Eyenga Bokamba last exhibited her work in Italy, she was overjoyed to bring her colorful, multidimensional painted cubes to a floating art gallery on Lake Iseo in Lombardy. She was also anxious about the 2024 exhibition, so she designed and printed mini sculptural cubes on cardstock and gave them to gallery visitors who… -
Celebrating 26 Years: Chair of Graduate School of Professional Psychology Retires
Humans of St. ThomasDr. Christopher Vye, chair of the Graduate School of Professional Psychology (GSPP) at the University of St. Thomas, will retire at the end of the spring 2025 semester after 26 years. For the last 12 years, Vye has held leadership within the school, bringing in his 36 years of expertise as a practicing psychologist specializing… -
St. Thomas Connect Creates Mentorships Between Students and Alumni
AlumniWhen Jacey Zadlo ’25 began her college journey at the University of St. Thomas, she was eager to tap into the strong alumni network the university is known for. From serving on the Student Alumni Board to leading tours as a campus guide, she has embraced opportunities to share the power of St. Thomas connections… -
St. Thomas Day Celebrates Six Outstanding Tommies
People & CultureEach year, the University of St. Thomas honors staff, students and alumni who inspire meaningful change and extend the St. Thomas mission in the world around them. On Wednesday, April 23, six awardees were celebrated in honor of the commitment to work, community, leadership and campus involvement. The 2025 recipients are: Monsignor James Lavin Award…