Get to know the STAFF OF THE MIPS OFFICE
Donna Hauer, MIPS Director
Education:
- BA in Communications Studies & Women Studies Minor, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
- MA in Student Affairs in Higher Education, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
Home Town/State/Country:
St. Lucas, Iowa, USA
Years Employed at St. Kate's:
Since October 1995--beginning my 18th year
What are you passionate about?
Social justice and education
What movie best depicts the book/novel with the same name?
Secret Life of Bees
What is one of your biggest pet peeves?
Students texting in class or people checking their phones during meetings
What brings you peace?
My backyard
If you could craft a national policy to change race relations, what would its major tenant be?
I'm going to steal Aimee's use the majority of the military budget to create cross-cultural ambassador exchanges. I think one-on-one relationship building is the most effective in breaking down stereotypes and creating allies.
What is the best part of your job?
All the great people I get to interact with and the variety
If you could name your own planet, what would you call it?
Harmony
What is your favorite fashion era?
There are fashion eras? (:
What cool things did you do this summer?
Spent two weeks in Los Angeles, at Mount Saint Mary’s College participating in an international meeting of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet (CSJs) that takes place every six years.
- BA in Communications Studies & Women Studies Minor, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
- MA in Student Affairs in Higher Education, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
Home Town/State/Country:
St. Lucas, Iowa, USA
Years Employed at St. Kate's:
Since October 1995--beginning my 18th year
What are you passionate about?
Social justice and education
What movie best depicts the book/novel with the same name?
Secret Life of Bees
What is one of your biggest pet peeves?
Students texting in class or people checking their phones during meetings
What brings you peace?
My backyard
If you could craft a national policy to change race relations, what would its major tenant be?
I'm going to steal Aimee's use the majority of the military budget to create cross-cultural ambassador exchanges. I think one-on-one relationship building is the most effective in breaking down stereotypes and creating allies.
What is the best part of your job?
All the great people I get to interact with and the variety
If you could name your own planet, what would you call it?
Harmony
What is your favorite fashion era?
There are fashion eras? (:
What cool things did you do this summer?
Spent two weeks in Los Angeles, at Mount Saint Mary’s College participating in an international meeting of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet (CSJs) that takes place every six years.
Chuayi Yang, MIPS Assistant Director of Multicultural Programs & Services (St. Paul Campus)
Education:
- University of Minnesota, BA in English
- St. Catherine University, MA in Organizational Leadership
Home Town/State/Country:
Born in France, grew up on the East Side of St .Paul, MN
Years Employed at St. Kate's:
7 years
What are you passionate about?
To encourage children to see the endless possibilities in their lives, practice intentional positive decision making, and create meaningful relationships with people around the world.
Who is your role model and why?
My father is an exceptional human being. Since I was a child, he has always challenged societal gender expectations by supporting his 3 daughters & his son to seek higher education and never was ashamed to cook, clean, and iron clothes alongside my mother. When we moved to the USA in 1990, he didn't speak or write any English. During our first few years in the US, he worked a as a janitor at a local church during the day and attended GED classes in the evening. After he received his GED, he attended night classes for several years and finally received his bachelor's. He wanted to make sure that he understood the college experience before he could tell us to go to college. He lives with such integrity, loyalty, and honesty - which continues to inspire the way I live.
If you could combine any cuisine from around the world to make a three course meal, what dishes would you include?
- A spicy Laotian papaya salad with a side of sticky rice
- A spicy Indian curry dish with naan bread
- A carribean inspired dish (beans, plaintain, rice, and roasted pork)
What brings you peace?
When I experience the miracles of everyday life:
- the sun rising behind the clouds;
- the morning coffee smell floating around the house;
- my daughters' laughter at the end of a long day;
- the taste of homemade dishes I grew up with;
- the smell of freshly-cut green grass;
- the sight of life poking through the snow at the end of a cold winter;
- strangers helping strangers; and
- children wanting to make the world a better place
If you had one super strength/mutation, what would it be?
I have always wanted to fly--that would cut my commuting time in half! :)
What is the best part of your job?
Working with individuals who care about the social issues that impact their families, friends, communities, and the world.
What cool things did you do this summer?
- I participated as a counselor in our annual Yang Youth Camp. I spent a whole week with 101 people, ages 5-20, learning and reflecting on our Yang family history and traditions.
- I traveled with my husband to St. Croix for a special couple's 20th anniversary weeklong celebration - with daily beach stops, local food discoveries, and rare afternoon naps.
- I attended and celebrated many high school and college graduation parties -- inspiring many possibilities indeed!
- University of Minnesota, BA in English
- St. Catherine University, MA in Organizational Leadership
Home Town/State/Country:
Born in France, grew up on the East Side of St .Paul, MN
Years Employed at St. Kate's:
7 years
What are you passionate about?
To encourage children to see the endless possibilities in their lives, practice intentional positive decision making, and create meaningful relationships with people around the world.
Who is your role model and why?
My father is an exceptional human being. Since I was a child, he has always challenged societal gender expectations by supporting his 3 daughters & his son to seek higher education and never was ashamed to cook, clean, and iron clothes alongside my mother. When we moved to the USA in 1990, he didn't speak or write any English. During our first few years in the US, he worked a as a janitor at a local church during the day and attended GED classes in the evening. After he received his GED, he attended night classes for several years and finally received his bachelor's. He wanted to make sure that he understood the college experience before he could tell us to go to college. He lives with such integrity, loyalty, and honesty - which continues to inspire the way I live.
If you could combine any cuisine from around the world to make a three course meal, what dishes would you include?
- A spicy Laotian papaya salad with a side of sticky rice
- A spicy Indian curry dish with naan bread
- A carribean inspired dish (beans, plaintain, rice, and roasted pork)
What brings you peace?
When I experience the miracles of everyday life:
- the sun rising behind the clouds;
- the morning coffee smell floating around the house;
- my daughters' laughter at the end of a long day;
- the taste of homemade dishes I grew up with;
- the smell of freshly-cut green grass;
- the sight of life poking through the snow at the end of a cold winter;
- strangers helping strangers; and
- children wanting to make the world a better place
If you had one super strength/mutation, what would it be?
I have always wanted to fly--that would cut my commuting time in half! :)
What is the best part of your job?
Working with individuals who care about the social issues that impact their families, friends, communities, and the world.
What cool things did you do this summer?
- I participated as a counselor in our annual Yang Youth Camp. I spent a whole week with 101 people, ages 5-20, learning and reflecting on our Yang family history and traditions.
- I traveled with my husband to St. Croix for a special couple's 20th anniversary weeklong celebration - with daily beach stops, local food discoveries, and rare afternoon naps.
- I attended and celebrated many high school and college graduation parties -- inspiring many possibilities indeed!
Coventry Cowens, MIPS Assistant Director of Multicultural Programs & Services (Mpls. Campus)
Education:
- University of Minnesota - Mankato
Post BA, Certificates St. Thomas U/MBA Program; University of WI; and
two Midwest Human Rights Fellowships (Kenya and Tanzania), various professional development programs at others colleges and corporations.
Home Town/State/Country:
South Minneapolis, Minnesota USA
Years Employed at St. Kate's:
Since 2003 on the Minneapolis Campus
What are you passionate about?
Family, Life long learning and hands-on International work that makes a lasting difference; African/African American / Indigenous peoples history; and Minnesota African American Museum.
What brings you peace?
Family and true friends, and a trip to the ocean to see the sun rise.
If you could craft a national policy to change race relations, what would its major tenant be?
Developing one on one relationships. If people really knew people that were different from them, of another ethnic group perhaps there would be much list tensions and fear of the "other". Always looking for the worst in other people, keeps us in that place of fear. International travel or a walk in my diverse neighborhood can transform. Stepping outside our group or community to another can change many biases and misconceptions we have about each other.
What is the best part of your job?
Students and co-workers!
If you could name your own planet, what would you call it?
Home or Welcome!
What cool things did you do this summer?
Travelled to Oak Bluffs to be with family and relax. Had submitted photography to a juried All Island Art Show and received a Merit recognition award. That might not be so cool, but after climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro(1998) and Peru's Asangati's mountain range (1999) and working and travelling in Tanzania and Kenya by myself, I'm having trouble finding really cool things to do, but working on it!
- University of Minnesota - Mankato
Post BA, Certificates St. Thomas U/MBA Program; University of WI; and
two Midwest Human Rights Fellowships (Kenya and Tanzania), various professional development programs at others colleges and corporations.
Home Town/State/Country:
South Minneapolis, Minnesota USA
Years Employed at St. Kate's:
Since 2003 on the Minneapolis Campus
What are you passionate about?
Family, Life long learning and hands-on International work that makes a lasting difference; African/African American / Indigenous peoples history; and Minnesota African American Museum.
What brings you peace?
Family and true friends, and a trip to the ocean to see the sun rise.
If you could craft a national policy to change race relations, what would its major tenant be?
Developing one on one relationships. If people really knew people that were different from them, of another ethnic group perhaps there would be much list tensions and fear of the "other". Always looking for the worst in other people, keeps us in that place of fear. International travel or a walk in my diverse neighborhood can transform. Stepping outside our group or community to another can change many biases and misconceptions we have about each other.
What is the best part of your job?
Students and co-workers!
If you could name your own planet, what would you call it?
Home or Welcome!
What cool things did you do this summer?
Travelled to Oak Bluffs to be with family and relax. Had submitted photography to a juried All Island Art Show and received a Merit recognition award. That might not be so cool, but after climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro(1998) and Peru's Asangati's mountain range (1999) and working and travelling in Tanzania and Kenya by myself, I'm having trouble finding really cool things to do, but working on it!
Carolyn Jackson, MIPS First Step Institute Coordinator (St. Paul Campus)
Education:
- Carleton College, BA in American Studies and Teacher Certification in Social Studies, Grades 5-12
- St. Catherine University, MA in Occupational Therapy (expected graduation: 2014)
Home Town/State/Country:
Bedford Heights, OH, USA
Years Employed at St. Kate's:
3 and 1/2 years
What brings you peace?
My growing devotional relationship with God, my spiritual community, being productive and of service to others, overcoming obstacles and learning from mistakes, connecting with close friends, meditation, painting, and taking nature photography.
What movie best depicts the book/novel with the same name?
Jane Eyre (2011 adaptation).
If you could combine any cuisine from around the world to make a three course meal, what dishes would you include?
Deviled Eggs (Italian), Chargrilled Chicken Vermicilli Noodle Salad (Vietnamese), and Sweet Potato Pie (Soul Food/African-American).
If you had one super strength/mutation, what would it be?
A photographic memory to help me with studying.
What is the best part of your job?
Helping young people discover their best selves.
If you could name your own planet, what would you call it?
Tranquilium
What is your favorite fashion era?
The 1980's.
What cool things did you do this summer?
- I traveled to India for two weeks and volunteered to help children learn English grammar and vocabulary.
- While in India I saw major historical and contemporary monuments like the Taj Mahal and Akshardham (the world's largest Hindu temple).
- I celebrated my 30th birthday!
- I went "cabining" near the North Shore.
- Although this does not count for this summer, I am excited to travel to the Bahamas for a family reunion this September!
- Carleton College, BA in American Studies and Teacher Certification in Social Studies, Grades 5-12
- St. Catherine University, MA in Occupational Therapy (expected graduation: 2014)
Home Town/State/Country:
Bedford Heights, OH, USA
Years Employed at St. Kate's:
3 and 1/2 years
What brings you peace?
My growing devotional relationship with God, my spiritual community, being productive and of service to others, overcoming obstacles and learning from mistakes, connecting with close friends, meditation, painting, and taking nature photography.
What movie best depicts the book/novel with the same name?
Jane Eyre (2011 adaptation).
If you could combine any cuisine from around the world to make a three course meal, what dishes would you include?
Deviled Eggs (Italian), Chargrilled Chicken Vermicilli Noodle Salad (Vietnamese), and Sweet Potato Pie (Soul Food/African-American).
If you had one super strength/mutation, what would it be?
A photographic memory to help me with studying.
What is the best part of your job?
Helping young people discover their best selves.
If you could name your own planet, what would you call it?
Tranquilium
What is your favorite fashion era?
The 1980's.
What cool things did you do this summer?
- I traveled to India for two weeks and volunteered to help children learn English grammar and vocabulary.
- While in India I saw major historical and contemporary monuments like the Taj Mahal and Akshardham (the world's largest Hindu temple).
- I celebrated my 30th birthday!
- I went "cabining" near the North Shore.
- Although this does not count for this summer, I am excited to travel to the Bahamas for a family reunion this September!
Pa Lor, MIPS Office Coordinator (St. Paul Campus)
Education:
- Carleton College, BA in Political Science/International Relations and a concentration in Political Economy
Home Town/State/Country:
Born in Thailand; grew up in South Minneapolis
Years Employed at St. Kate's:
I just started with the MIPS Office this October 2013, but it has been a great experience so far!
What are you passionate about?
I am very passionate about equality and social justice issues and also about helping individuals to be independent and self-learners.
What brings you peace?
Knowing that I did my best each day.
If you had one super strength/mutation, what would it be?
The ability to heal.
What is the best part of your job?
What I really like about my job is that I get to meet and greet all of the students and visitors that stop by the MIPS office.
If you could name your own planet, what would you call it?
What's actually quite funny is that one of my friends told me he had a dream about me having my own planet and it was called "Paloria".
What cool things did you do this summer?
I participated in the Warrior Dash - my first 5K obstacle race. It was so much fun! I also learned how to play tennis finally. I have always wanted to try tennis but never got around to it.
- Carleton College, BA in Political Science/International Relations and a concentration in Political Economy
Home Town/State/Country:
Born in Thailand; grew up in South Minneapolis
Years Employed at St. Kate's:
I just started with the MIPS Office this October 2013, but it has been a great experience so far!
What are you passionate about?
I am very passionate about equality and social justice issues and also about helping individuals to be independent and self-learners.
What brings you peace?
Knowing that I did my best each day.
If you had one super strength/mutation, what would it be?
The ability to heal.
What is the best part of your job?
What I really like about my job is that I get to meet and greet all of the students and visitors that stop by the MIPS office.
If you could name your own planet, what would you call it?
What's actually quite funny is that one of my friends told me he had a dream about me having my own planet and it was called "Paloria".
What cool things did you do this summer?
I participated in the Warrior Dash - my first 5K obstacle race. It was so much fun! I also learned how to play tennis finally. I have always wanted to try tennis but never got around to it.
Norah Hoff, MIPS Associate Director of International Programs & Services (St. Paul Campus)
I have been at St. Kate’s for the last 20 years, and I absolutely love it.
Moving from cosmopolitan Washington D.C. to St. Paul was a colossal change for me. Being in the MIPS Office and working with students across all nationalities and races was the best antidote to my culture shock, and remains the best thing about my job.
I was born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela but have lived in this country since the early 1960’s.
Moving from cosmopolitan Washington D.C. to St. Paul was a colossal change for me. Being in the MIPS Office and working with students across all nationalities and races was the best antidote to my culture shock, and remains the best thing about my job.
I was born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela but have lived in this country since the early 1960’s.
Aimee Thostenson, MIPS Associate Director of International Admissions (St. Paul Campus)
Education:
- Macalester College, BA in Anthropology
- University of Minnesota, MA in Comparative & International Development Education
Home Town/State/Country:
Milton, WI, USA
Years Employed at St. Kate's:
17 years
What are you passionate about?
Cross cultural friendships! By helping international students through the admission process and their time at St. Kate's, I love that my work can connect people who might not have met one another otherwise.
If you could combine any cuisine from around the world to make a three course meal, what dishes would you include?
Rendang (spicy beef) from Indonesia, Pad Thai from Thailand and baklava from Greece.
What movie best depicts the book/novel with the same name? Room with a View
What is one of your biggest pet peeves?
When people don't do what they say they will.
If you had one super strength/mutation, what would it be?
The ability to speak all languages.
What is the best part of your job?
Meeting amazing women from all over the world.
What is your favorite fashion era?
The 1920s.
What cool things did you do this summer?
- Had our annual trip to the family cabin in Canada. I learned how restorative it can be to sit by the lake and do nothing.
- Macalester College, BA in Anthropology
- University of Minnesota, MA in Comparative & International Development Education
Home Town/State/Country:
Milton, WI, USA
Years Employed at St. Kate's:
17 years
What are you passionate about?
Cross cultural friendships! By helping international students through the admission process and their time at St. Kate's, I love that my work can connect people who might not have met one another otherwise.
If you could combine any cuisine from around the world to make a three course meal, what dishes would you include?
Rendang (spicy beef) from Indonesia, Pad Thai from Thailand and baklava from Greece.
What movie best depicts the book/novel with the same name? Room with a View
What is one of your biggest pet peeves?
When people don't do what they say they will.
If you had one super strength/mutation, what would it be?
The ability to speak all languages.
What is the best part of your job?
Meeting amazing women from all over the world.
What is your favorite fashion era?
The 1920s.
What cool things did you do this summer?
- Had our annual trip to the family cabin in Canada. I learned how restorative it can be to sit by the lake and do nothing.