2023 Alumni Awards Recipients

Mary Knuth Otto ’63

Reunion: 60th
Residence: Shelburne, Vermont
Grinnell major: English
Other degrees: MA in English from City University of New York (1967); Ph.D., English Education from New York University (1987)
Profession: Retired teacher

A dedicated educator, writer, and volunteer, Mary Knuth Otto has graciously served her alma mater in numerous capacities during the past four decades. She recognizes and values the life-changing role that Grinnell College has played in her life and the lives of countless others. She is the class agent for 1963 and has supported the planning of multiple class reunions. She also has been a respected admission volunteer, Alumni Council member, and alumni representative on the committee planning Anne F. Harris’ inauguration. A retired English teacher, Otto is now a community volunteer in Vermont.

3 ways Mary embodies Grinnell College’s mission of lifetime learning and service

1. The class agent for 1963, she has been instrumental in building class camaraderie and encouraging attendance and planning events during milestone reunions. 
2. During her six years on the Alumni Council (2014-2020), Mary contributed in many ways, including writing columns for the Grinnell Magazine.
3. A dedicated community volunteer, her service includes Board of Trustee member on the Vermont Humanities Council and chair of strategic planning for the Norwich Public Library.

Something you probably didn’t know about Mary

She is the author/editor of Rusticators in Sprucewold, the story of a 100-year-old log cabin colony in Boothbay Harbor, Maine. 

Bonus Mary Fun Facts

• She was the teacher of a national writing project at Pace University.
• She was English Department Chairperson of The American School in London from 1992 to 1994. 
• She founded the Donna Jo Briley Glenn ’63 memorial fund, which raised money from classmates to donate a refurbished practice piano to a room in the Bucksbaum Fine Arts Center in memory of Glenn. 

A quote about Mary

“Mary’s role in increasing the visibility of the Alumni Council by creating the Alumni Council column in the Grinnell Magazine was critically important. It’s one of numerous examples of how she has cultivated connections among Grinnellians. Mary values the life-changing role Grinnell played in her life, so it’s fitting her profound dedication to her alma mater during the past 60 years has enhanced the lives of countless other Grinnell alums and students.”

– David Jarvis ’04

Lorie Hill ’68

Reunion: 55th
Residence: Walnut Creek, California 
Grinnell major: English
Other degrees: MA in English and teaching from the University of Wisconsin (1970); MA in psychology from Sonoma State University (1974); Ph.D. in psychology from Wright Institute (1980)
Profession: Psychologist, psychotherapist, and educator

Lorie Hill has chosen to live her life as an advocate for social justice. As a psychologist, psychotherapist, and social worker, Hill’s practice includes extensive work in violence prevention, anti-bias, and anti-racism training. She has led workshops and training conferences throughout the U.S. and abroad. Up until August, she commuted 60 miles each way to a California state men’s prison where she counseled inmates with mental health issues. Through her nonprofit organization, Providing Alternatives to Violence, Hill trained teachers and parents regarding how young people can resist the pressure to engage in retaliatory violence.

3 ways Lorie embodies Grinnell College’s mission of lifetime learning and service

1. Starting with a small women’s collective, Lorie built a group practice for people in the Bay Area struggling with mental health and substance abuse problems.
2. For eight years, Lorie commuted to California men’s state prisons where she conducted mental health assessments and provided therapy for inmates with complex psychological issues.
3. Lorie created a nonprofit organization in Oakland called Providing Alternatives to Violence that focused on anger management, violence prevention, diversity, and unlearning prejudice.  

Something you probably didn’t know about Lorie

Her 50th reunion gift to Grinnell College was designated to the Liberal Arts in Prison Program. 

Bonus Lorie Fun Facts

• From 2009-2013, she served as director of clinical services at the Mental Health Center for John F. Kennedy University, supervising about 100 faculty and students. 
• In 2000, she was a recipient of Grinnell College’s Joseph F. Wall ’41 Alumni Service Award and began violence prevention and diversity programs at five San Francisco area homeless shelters. 
• She gave a presentation at the Harry Belafonte’s Meeting on Nonviolence, a keynote speech at the Unlearning Racism Ford Scholars Conference, and a diversity and violence prevention training in Russia. 

A quote about Lorie

“Lorie is a model of what I think a Grinnellian should be. She is smart, competent, caring and kind. She is innovative with a passion for social justice. She still has boundless energy in her mid-70s. While almost all her classmates retired years ago, Lorie continued to spend her time creating a more perfect world.”

– Phil Bertenthal ’68

Susie Kaeser ’69

Reunion: 55th
Residence: Cleveland Heights, Ohio
Grinnell major: Anthropology
Other degrees: MA in anthropology from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (1972); Master of Urban Planning from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (1976)
Profession: Most of Susie’s volunteer and career activities have focused on public education

Susie Kaeser has thrived in numerous capacities supporting public schools, achieving and sustaining racial inclusion in Cleveland Heights, and advocating for fair school finance in Ohio. From 1991 to 2008, Kaeser served as executive director of Reaching Heights, a community-based support organization for the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public School. Under her leadership, Reaching Heights developed a district-wide tutoring program and raised funds to provide music-lesson scholarships for children. In retirement, Kaeser spent seven years researching and writing a history of the activists who created housing integration in Cleveland Heights, publishing the book Resisting Segregation in 2019. 

3 ways Susie embodies Grinnell College’s mission of lifetime learning and service

1. Susie spent nine years on the staff of the Citizens Council for Ohio schools where she conducted research and advocated for marginalized students.
2. She founded Reaching Heights, a community-based support organization for the Cleveland Heights-University Heights City School District, and served as its executive director from 1991 to 2008. Under her leadership, Reaching Heights developed teacher grants, tutoring programs, teacher book discussions, and music-lesson scholarships for children, among other accomplishments. 
3. In Susie’s 2020 book, Resisting Segregation: Cleveland Heights Activists Shape Their Community, 1964-1976, she profiles dozens of community leaders who waged a fight to transform Cleveland Heights from an exclusive, all-white suburb into an inclusive, diverse community.

Something you probably didn’t know about Susie

Susie is an education specialist for the League of Women Voters of Ohio. She regularly prepares background resources for advocacy and presents legislative testimony in Columbus.

Bonus Susie Fun Facts

• She became a classroom volunteer at her neighborhood elementary school when Susie’s daughter entered kindergarten in 1988 and has continued in that role ever since.
• Susie served as vice president of the Board of Home Repair Resource Center, a nonprofit organization that strives to empower Cleveland Heights residents with the skills they need to maintain their homes.
• Since 2005, Susie has managed an annual one-week music camp in June to bring middle school students together with Heights High School musicians. 

A quote about Susie

“Susie deeply values racial diversity in community life. It is why she and husband Jerry chose to move to Cleveland Heights, and it is at the core of her involvements ever since – all targeted to advance her community’s goal of remaining a strong, vibrant, and diverse city. Susie has always understood that excellent public schools and well-maintained housing would be key to accomplishing this goal.”

– Diana Woodbridge (community activist and chair of the Greater Cleveland Community Cleveland Heights Housing Team)

Bob Eckardt ’73

Reunion: 50th
Residence: Lakewood, Ohio
Grinnell major: History
Other degrees: Master of Public Health from University of Michigan (1977), Doctor of Public Health from University of Michigan (1990)  
Profession: Retired foundation leader; continues to consult with nonprofit agencies and foundations on issues of health care, philanthropy, and nonprofit management

A leader in gerontology, community leadership, and philanthropy, Bob Eckardt has dedicated his lifework to improving the lives of the citizens of Cleveland. A 34-year tenure with the Cleveland Foundation included serving as executive vice president from 2010-2016 when he provided overall direction for annual grants totaling more than $85 million. As a researcher and scholar in the field of aging, Eckardt has made important contributions. He’s a tireless champion in identifying new and innovative ways of ensuring that older adults have the resources that they need to age well and live with dignity. 

3 ways Bob embodies Grinnell College’s mission of lifetime learning and service

1. During his 34 years working for the Cleveland Foundation, Bob provided direction and management for grants and community engagement activities, spanning the areas of health, 
   education, economic development, the environment, and aging. His efforts helped Cleveland thrive and be a better place to live.
2. He has been a leader recognized on many fronts in gerontology, approaches to HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment, and community leadership. He has spoken up and acted creatively to support individuals on the margins from students in under-funded schools to the poor elderly in need of community services.
3. Bob has served on the boards of many national philanthropic groups, including Grantmakers in Health, Funders Concerned About AIDS, and the Grantmakers Evaluation Network. 

Something you probably didn’t know about Bob

He is one of the founders of Grantmakers in Aging, a professional association for foundations committed to supporting older adults.

Bonus Bob Fun Facts

• He is the recipient of several national awards in his field, including the 2006 Terrance Keenan Leadership Award in Health Philanthropy and the 2010 Distinguished Grantmaker Award from the Council on Foundations.  
• In his senior year at Grinnell, Bob was awarded a prestigious Thomas J. Watson Fellowship. He studied care of the elderly in Spain, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.
• Bob is widely published in professional journals and wrote the introduction for the Board Savvy CEO.

A quote about Bob

“Bob epitomizes what Grinnell attempted to instill in us – to use our knowledge and social skills (listening, flexibility) wisely and creatively for the good of others. By dedicating his lifework to improving the lives of the citizens of Cleveland and responding to demographic and technical changes that affected their needs, Bob has made a significant difference for individuals and lived values of his community.”

– Anne Walter ’73

Irma McClaurin ’73

Reunion: 50th
Residence: Raleigh, North Carolina
Grinnell major: American studies
Other degrees: MFA in English/creative writing from University of Massachusetts Amherst (1976); MA in cultural anthropology from University of Massachusetts Amherst (1989); Ph.D. in cultural/biocultural anthropology from University of Massachusetts Amherst (1993)
Profession: Writer, coach, leadership consultant, diversity strategist, and immigrant asylum expert

In guiding institutions to facilitate the inclusive participation and leadership of Blacks, women, and other people of color, Irma McClaurin has been addressing diversity, equity, and inclusion in significant ways long before DEI work became commonplace. Her career path has included service as past president of Shaw University, Chief Diversity Officer at Teach For America, Ford Foundation Program Officer and a variety of college faculty positions – including a return to teach as the first Black faculty in Grinnell’s Anthropology Department in the 1990s. Her consulting firm in North Carolina has worked with science museums, nonprofits, and city governments. The author of the award-winning Black Feminist Anthropology: Theory, Politics, Praxis, and Poetics, McClaurin founded the Irma McClaurin Black Feminist Archive at UMass-Amherst in 2016.

3 ways Irma embodies Grinnell College’s mission of lifetime learning and service

1. As CEO at Irma McClaurin Solutions, Irma offers clients three decades of expertise in strategic planning, communications, program and curriculum, design, and championing diversity.  Her services include DEI assessments and strategies, fostering community engagement, leadership and organizational development, change management, executive coaching, research and evaluations, as well as writing and editorial support. 
2. For over a decade, McClaurin has served as an expert witness for asylum cases on gender violence, LGBTQ bias, ageism, and mental health as well as on implicit biases cases.
3. The author of the award-winning collection, Black Feminist Anthropology: Theory, Politics, Praxis and Poetics, the book has made a provocative and important contribution to contemporary Black feminism.

Something you probably didn’t know about Irma

She was invited to tour Taiwan in 2018 to teach and speak on Black feminism, disaster recovery and resilience, and the Black Feminist Archive (which she founded at UMass-Amherst in 2016) with indigenous women leaders, university students and faculty, and the Taiwan Fulbright staff.

Bonus Irma Fun Facts

• Her career path has included service as past president of Shaw University, Chief Diversity Officer at Teach For America, Ford Foundation Program Officer, and tenured associate professor of anthropology at the University of Florida and University of Minnesota. She also was the first Black faculty member in Grinnell’s Anthropology Department.
• Irma is a member of Grinnell’s 50th reunion planning committee, and previously served on the Black Alumni Reunion Committee. She has been a GRASP volunteer and was a Grinnelllink D.C. speaker in 2015. She has consistently mentored Black Grinnell alums and faculty members.
• At Grinnell’s Commencement ceremony on May 22, 2023, Irma received an honorary degree from the College, a Doctor of Social Studies, for her relentless pursuit of excellence in many fields, her innovative mindset, and her steadfast commitment to social justice in many forms.

A quote about Irma

“Irma’s focus is on helping others to advocate for themselves, and guiding institutions and leaders to facilitate the participation and co-sharing leadership of people of color and women. This task is like guiding a supertanker. You can’t turn it around quickly or effectively unless you have a lot of time, and I guess you’d say endurance. …What I take away from her experience is how strong, resilient and committed she has needed to be, to have accomplished what she has for 50 years.”

– Kit Gage ’73

Rod Sinks ’81

Reunion: 40th
Residence: Cupertino, California
Grinnell major: Physics
Other degrees: Master of Science in Electrical Engineering in computers and communication systems from Stanford University (1982)
Profession: Engineering management and public service

Known for his leadership and vision, Rod Sinks has been deeply engaged in public service and environmental causes in the Bay Area of California. Sinks helped lead two high tech start-ups from infancy to successful businesses in engineering management roles. In 2011, he was elected to the first of two terms on the Cupertino City Council and served as the town’s mayor in 2015. He also helped found and was the first chair of the Silicon Valley Clean Energy Authority, and he spent six years serving on the Bay Area Air Quality Management District Board. 

3 ways Rod embodies Grinnell College’s mission of lifetime learning and service

1. Rod championed education, economy, housing, transportation, and environment issues during his nine years serving on Cupertino City Council.
2. He helped found and was the first chair of the Silicon Valley Clean Energy Authority, bringing carbon-free electricity at lower rates to residents and businesses in 13 cities. 
3. He served as chair of the 24-member Bay Area Air Quality Management District Board, overseeing air quality and climate mitigation strategies across the nine-county Bay Area. 

Something you probably didn’t know about Rod

Rod has been a scoutmaster and YMCA Adventure Guides leader.

Bonus Rod Fun Facts

• Rod is immediate past president of the Cupertino Rotary Club and initiated its Climate Action Committee.
• He has been a musical parody writer and cast member for the annual Los Altos Stage Company Follies fundraiser since 2008.
• Rod has served as a Grinnell College class fund director since 1987 and has been a member of several Reunion Class Committees. 

A quote about Rod

“Rod Sinks is passionate, diplomatic, analytical, dedicated, and courageous. All these and other character traits have worked together to make Rod an effective and innovative leader.”

– Linda Sell, Sunnyvale City Council Member and former Bay Area for Clean Environment board member

Kristin Layng Szakos ’81

Reunion: 40th
Residence: Charlottesville, Virginia
Grinnell major: Religious studies
Other degrees: Master of Science in journalism from Northwestern University (1983)
Profession: Journalist, editor, grant writer, and public service

A fierce advocate for justice and equity, Kristin Layng Szakos has worked as a journalist, freelance writer, editor, and grant writer for almost 40 years. She was editor of the Appalachian Reader, a journal about citizen organizing and co-authored We Make Change, a guide for community organizers. In 2009, she was elected to the Charlottesville City Council and served two four-year terms. As a councilwoman, she developed a consensus around the removal of Charlottesville’s confederate monuments. Szakos also helped lead the counterprotests and the community work that followed the white supremacist “Unite the Right” march in Charlottesville in 2017.

3 ways Kristin embodies Grinnell College’s mission of lifetime learning and service

1. Kristin was elected to two terms on the Charlottesville City Council. She took a leading role in making sure that Charlottesville’s Confederate statues were removed. This provided an inflection point for many other communities to reflect on the meaning and implications of statues and monuments.
2. For 12 years, Kristin was the editor of the Appalachian Reader, a journal about citizen organizing in the 10-state Appalachian region. She and her husband Joe wrote a guide for community organizers, We Make Change.
3. Kristin helped lead the counterprotests and the community work that followed the “Unite the Right” march in Charlottesville and has continued to speak out to keep the threats posed by white supremacy in the public eye. She also helped to organize a statewide effort in 2020 to change Virginia law to allow all communities to remove Confederate monuments.

Something you probably didn’t know about Kristin

She has lived in Hungary and France and traveled Europe by campervan for six months in 2018.

Bonus Kristin Fun Facts

• Kristin is a freelance writer and editor; a factchecker and copyeditor of financial reports with Spain Consulting; and a volunteer grants consultant and writer for local nonprofits.
• She has served on numerous public boards, including the Charlottesville Alliance for Black Male Achievement, City of Promise, the Charlottesville-Albemarle Metropolitan Planning Organization, Virginia First Cities, and the National League of City’s Youth, Education and Families Council and Race, Equity and Leadership Council.
• Kristin was the guest of After the Movements: After the Real Talk about Race podcast episode co-hosted by Pulitzer-Prize winning columnist Michael Paul Williams and Kelli Lemon, and The New York Times podcast, The Daily.

A quote about Kristin

“I have known Kris since we were both in high school attending the same church. Kris was then, and is now, both a deeply compassionate person and a fierce advocate for justice and equity. I was surprised that she decided to run for public office but not at all surprised at her willingness to tackle the issue of Confederate monument removal in Charlottesville. … I was struck not just by her persistence in pursuing what was right, but by her equanimity and courage in the face of threats, and her deep empathy for her constituents on both sides of the issue.”

— Annie LaCourt, co-founder of Visual Government

Rick Stuck ’82

Reunion: 40th
Residence: Jackson, Wyoming
Grinnell major: Economics
Profession: Retired finance accountant 

Affectionally called “Grinnell’s biggest cheerleader” by his niece, Rick Stuck’s love for Grinnell College is infectious. Amid a successful career in finance and accounting, he served for more than two decades as a class fund director and spent six years on the Alumni Council. Believing that every young person he meets should have the Grinnell opportunity he had, Stuck routinely promoted Grinnell at college fairs. Before his retirement, he also relished hosting student externships at his home and office in Jackson, Wyoming. He has opened doors for numerous students on their career journeys. 

3 ways Rick embodies Grinnell College’s mission of lifetime learning and service

1. Rick has been a dedicated and enthusiastic class fund director since 2001 and is a five-time member of his Reunion Class Committee. 
2. He has hosted numerous student externs at his Wyoming home and office. He has also represented the College at admission fairs. 
3. During his six years on the Alumni Council, Rick served on several committees. At one point, he oversaw the Alumni Council portion of the Stephen K. Kent ’67 Senior Class challenge. He gifted silver dollars to the senior class committee to mirror James J. Hill’s start to the Grinnell College endowment.

Something you probably didn’t know about Rick

After graduation, Rick organized yearly winter golf trips for his former Grinnell swimming and golf teammates.  

Bonus Rick Fun Facts

• Rick was worked as a hospital administrator at St. Johns Medical Center and an accounting officer at First Union National Bank.
• He has been an active member of the Jackson Hole community, serving on the boards of the Senior Center and St John’s Episcopal Church Endowment. 
• Rick may be one of the Pioneer Bookshop’s best customers. He’s seemingly always is sporting Grinnell College T-shirts, sweatshirts, and caps – and his vehicle is adorned with his alma mater’s vanity plates and stickers. 

A quote about Rick

“The most extraordinary demonstration of Rick’s lifelong commitment to the College is his complete and unshaken belief that every young person that he met should have the Grinnell opportunity that he had. He loves bringing Grinnell to young men and women. His hope in the future always has a Grinnell focus. Rick planted thousands of seeds over several generations, distributed with his unbridled enthusiasm, watered by his extraordinary love of this institution.”

– Brian Ross ’82

Cameo Carlson ’93

Reunion: 30th
Residence: Hendersonville, Tennessee
Grinnell major: Political science
Other degrees: Master of Arts in journalism from University of Missouri (2000)
Profession: Music industry executive

Cameo Carlson’s lifelong love of music – which Grinnellians in the 1990s first experienced by listening to her KDIC radio show – has grown into a renowned career in the music industry. With a background in radio, record labels, and artist management, Carlson is now the CEO of mtheory, a manager services company providing global marketing and strategic support for artist managers. In April 2022, Carlson spearheaded the Equal Access Development initiative to give artists and managers from underrepresented demographics the resources, training, and networking opportunities they are not always afforded in country music.

3 ways Cameo embodies Grinnell College’s mission of lifetime learning and service

1. Cameo has contributed to the development of the music industry from its digital inception and helped further numerous music careers while championing inclusivity and integrity. 
2. She is the CEO of mtheory, a manager services company providing global marketing and strategic support for artist managers. In 2022, mtheory launched a 12-month program designed to provide access and training for underrepresented demographics in the country music industry.
3. Cameo has served her alma mater in numerous capacities, including as an Alumni Council member, class agent, host of numerous externships, a GRASP coordinator, and a Reunion Class Committee member. She also has returned to campus to take part in panel discussions and connect with students.

Something you probably didn’t know about Cameo

Cameo has two U.S. patents, stemming from her work in multimedia scheduling for Spinner.com in the early 2000s.

Bonus Cameo Fun Facts

• Past jobs include head of digital business development for Borman Entertainment, executive vice president of Universal Motown and Republic Records, and label relations and music programming manager at iTunes.
• Cameo is on the Academy of Country Music Diversity & Inclusion Task Force and a board member of the Music Business Association and the Women’s Music Business Association.
• She co-founded Digital Divas Nashville, which has been empowering women at the intersection of music and digital through networking, mentoring, and support since 2008.

A quote about Cameo

“In her professional life, Cameo works to bridge several generations, from Millennial musicians to Gen X venue owners, to Baby Boomer promoters. Cameo can find a way to assist everyone to communicate with each other. I believe no other alum has a direct line to Keith Urban. Cameo is a shining example of what Grinnell students can do with their education, and more importantly, she is an example of how alumni can give back to support current students and fellow alumni.”

– Kelly Clements Hopfer ’96

Kartik Sheth ’93

Reunion: 30th
Residence: Washington D.C.
Grinnell major: Physics
Other degrees: Master of Science in physics from University of Minnesota (1995); Master of Science and Ph.D. in astrophysics from University of Maryland (1997, 2001)
Profession: Astrophysicist

A world-renowned astrophysicist, Kartik Sheth is passionate about innovation and finding impactful, resilient solutions to global challenges. As a program scientist at NASA’s headquarters, he directs and manages national science and technology research in astrophysics and Earth science. He also makes time for mentorship, helping Grinnell students apply for NASA internships and jobs. In 2021, Sheth was appointed to the White House’s Executive Office of President as the assistant director for research infrastructures and science equity. In this role, he chaired the national subcommittees on advanced manufacturing, physical sciences, and research and development infrastructures. 

3 ways Kartik embodies Grinnell College’s mission of lifetime learning and service

1. As a program scientist at NASA’s headquarters, Kartik leads policy development for science and technology programs in astrophysics and earth science. He is recognized as a world expert in the study of barred spiral galaxies.
2. In 2021, Sheth was appointed to the White House’s Executive Office of President as the assistant director for research infrastructures and science equity. He led development of the U.S. Strategic Plan for Advanced Manufacturing 2022-2026 focusing on climate, economy, and equity.
3. He was previously the director for the Office of Diversity and Inclusion at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory where he founded the National Astronomy Consortium, a unique partnership of 17 HBCUs, 7 majority institutions, and 3 science centers dedicated to increasing inclusion and diversity in science. In 2022, he was awarded NASA’s Diversity, Inclusion & Equity Medal for his work leading the Anti-Racism Action group and other activities at the agency.

Something you probably didn’t know about Kartik

Kartik’s has published more than 175 peer-reviewed academic articles. His work has been cited more than 16,300 times.  

Bonus Kartik Fun Facts

• Kartik served on the Alumni Council from 2001-2007. He also started the Grinnell-in-LA Regional Network and has been active in the Washington D.C. regional community.
• In a mentorship capacity, Kartik encourages scientists from underrepresented backgrounds. He also has returned to Grinnell College to meet with physics students to talk about his life journey and organized get-togethers for Grinnellians at the annual American Astronomical Society meetings. 
• He was a Science Without Borders Special Visiting Researcher in Brazil from 2017-2019 where he helped build the astronomy program at the UFRJ/Valongo Observatory. 

A quote about Kartik

“Talking to Kartik one immediately notices his humility, humor, and grace, and might be tempted to overlook he’s a world expert on spiral galaxies and galactic discs and an accomplished executive leader in diversity, equity and inclusion. Kartik embodies that life-long Grinnellian goal of balancing the rigor of form (conviviality) with function (scientific expertise). 

– Andrés Chang ’05

Suyog Shrestha ’06

Reunion: 15th
Residence: Chestertown, Maryland 
Grinnell major: Physics
Other degrees: Ph.D. in experimental particle physics from Iowa State University (2014) 
Profession: Particle physicist and physics professor 

A particle physicist whose overarching goal is to understand the fundamental constituents of the universe, Suyog Shrestha is bringing his home country of Nepal into the fold of cutting-edge international scientific research. As a postdoctoral researcher at CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research), Shrestha worked with the Nepalese government on an agreement providing opportunities for participation by scientists, engineers, and technicians from Nepal in CERN research projects. He has also organized two Physics Without Frontiers programs in Nepal and co-founded Youth for Nepal, which raised money for renovated public schools and established computer literacy programs.

3 ways Suyog embodies Grinnell College’s mission of lifetime learning and service

1. From 2014-2021, Suyog worked at CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research), studying the proton-proton collision data at the Large Hadron Collider. The overarching goal of Suyog’s research is to understand the fundamental constituents of the universe, such as the elementary particles and their interactions. His work has practical applications in data science, supercomputing, nuclear medicine, medical imaging, and radiation therapy for cancer.
2. A Nepal native, Suyog coordinated an agreement between CERN and Nepalese government officials to provide an exchange of technology and knowledge – including the donation of 200 extremely powerful computer servers to a university in Nepal. He also recruited students and teachers from Nepal for training programs at CERN.
3. Soon after graduating from Grinnell, Suyog and two fellow alums co-founded Youth for Nepal, a nonprofit that raised grant funding in the U.S. and channeled money toward Nepal community development projects, such as renovating public schools, organizing health camps, establishing computer literacy programs, and building libraries in rural Nepal.

Something you probably didn’t know about Suyog

While a student at Grinnell, Suyog learned Russian and lived in the Russian House. 

Bonus Suyog Fun Facts

• Suyog is an assistant professor of physics at Washington College. He also mentors students as an adjunct assistant professor at The Ohio State University.
• Suyog has trained and mentored numerous undergraduate and Ph.D. students from around the world. He has also organized particle physics and supercomputing training schools along with international workshops and outreach programs.
• He has received four National Science Foundation funded US-ATLAS outreach grants, and five Italian ICTP Physics Without Frontiers Outreach Grants. 

A quote about Suyog

“Fostering strong collaboration across the spectrum of stakeholders is Suyog’s exceptional forte. Suyog forged partnership with the ATLAS collaboration, CERN, International Center for Theoretical Physics, US-ATLAS Outreach Program, International Particle Physics Outreach Group, and the government of Nepal, among others. Suyog’s ability to work with people from diverse walks of life is a genuine hallmark of his Grinnell College liberal arts education, which resulted in creating opportunities for the students and researchers in Nepal.”

– Harris Kagan, emeritus physics professor at The Ohio State University

Emily Guenther ’07

Reunion: 15th
Residence: Grinnell, Iowa
Grinnell major: English
Other degrees: Master of Arts in Education, Policy, and Leadership Studies from University of Iowa (2017)
Profession: Higher education

With a strong belief in the power of a liberal arts education, Emily Guenther transformed the Liberal Arts in Prison Program from a student-run club to an accredited and respected institution within the College. As the program director since 2008, Grinnell has offered 108 courses for credit, serving 166 incarcerated students. Many formerly incarcerated students have talked, movingly, about how their experiences within the program demonstrated they were capable of navigating challenges, first in the classroom and then during reentry. Guenther is also vice chair of the Iowa Consortium for Higher Education in Prison.

3 ways Emily embodies Grinnell College’s mission of lifetime learning and service

1. Shortly after graduating from Grinnell, Emily transformed the Liberal Arts in Prison Program from a student volunteer-based club to a rigorous college program offering incarcerated students the chance to earn up to 60 Grinnell College credits. In 2009, the program offered its first course for college credit at Newton Correctional Facility. Since then, more than 30 Grinnell College professors have taught at least one full course through the program. In spring 2022, the program began offering college courses in the state’s only women’s prison in Mitchellville, Iowa. Fifty incarcerated students are currently enrolled; they take 3-4 college courses per semester.
2. She has served as the program director since 2008. Students taking part in the program are more likely to remain engaged in education even after they are released from prison, and qualitative data suggests that recidivism among program participants is very low.
3. Emily has participated in the Consortium of Liberal Arts in Prison, a group of universities offering liberal arts programming in prisons all over the country, since it began in 2008. More recently, she has taken a leadership role within Iowa, helping create and lead the Iowa Consortium for Higher Education in Prison, a collaborative organization of several state agencies and college partners.

Something you probably didn’t know about Emily

As a Grinnell College student, Emily took part in Alternate Break, Javanese Gamelan, and the KDIC radio station. 

Bonus Emily Fun Facts

• Emily is vice chair of the Iowa Consortium for Higher Education in Prison.
• Emily has served on the Grinnell-Newburg School Board since 2017.
• Last year, Emily was awarded a $60,000 grant from Bard College and the Open Society University Network. The grant was used to support the hiring of Gabriel Ferguson ’22 to serve as a postbaccalaureate fellow; Ferguson provided academic support for courses offered at the Newton Correctional Facility and a pilot program at the Iowa Correctional Institution for Women.

A quote about Emily

“As a leader, Emily’s passion is contagious, inspiring those around her with a purpose-driven enthusiasm for helping others. Her empathy is without limits, equaled only by her humility and willingness to make a positive difference in the world. She is the embodiment of what it means to have a charitable heart, and everyone should aspire to be like her. To me, she is a hero. … Before going to prison, I was a child who frequently cried tears of rage and sorrow. Thanks to Emily, I left prison a man crying tears of thankfulness, joy, and compassion. This transformation is one I’ve seen replicated in the countless testimonials of other former prisoners who have had the opportunity to be impacted by Emily’s mission.”

– Jason Darrah, Liberal Arts in Prison Program alum

Cynthia Dominguez ’12

Reunion: 10th
Residence: Chicago, Illinois
Grinnell majors: Psychology and Spanish
Profession: Finance and operations

Cynthia Dominguez’s generosity of spirit and genuine joy in connection is contagious. At Lakeview Pantry in Chicago, she was the nonprofit’s first in-house finance employee. She modernized financial processes and HR policies, and led diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. Her current job as vice president of finance and operations at the Evanston Community Foundation allows Dominguez to flex her financial and administrative prowess and interweave her passion for diversity and inclusion throughout every aspect of her role. Additionally, Dominguez is a dedicated part of Grinnell’s women’s soccer alumni group, building relationships with students, alumni, and parents.

3 ways Cynthia embodies Grinnell College’s mission of lifetime learning and service

1. Cynthia has distinguished herself early in her career in the nonprofit and philanthropy sector. She previously worked as the director of administration at Urban Initiatives, a Chicago nonprofit that supports youth through academic support, sports, and play; and was director of finance and administration for Nourishing Hope (formerly Lakeview Pantry). She now is the vice president of finance and operations at the Evanston Community Foundation.
2. She consistently advocates for and undertakes diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts in each of her positions, applying a racial equity lens in finance efforts, fundraising strategies, program operations, and organizational inclusiveness. In all of her roles, she has proudly represented as a Latina in leadership and aims to create pathways for other people of color to follow.
3. Cynthia has used her athletic passions to foster community. A captain on the soccer team while at Grinnell, Cynthia remains a dedicated part of Grinnell women’s soccer. She builds relationships with soccer alumni in the Chicagoland area, and together they support the local women’s professional team, the Chicago Red Stars. She also regularly plays pick up soccer with the neighborhood middle schoolers in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago.

Something you probably didn’t know about Cynthia

While studying abroad as a student in Spain, Cynthia visited France and fell in love with the language and culture. She became such a Francophile that she revised her senior year schedule to tackle introductory French classes. She spent one month in France in 2019 during the women’s World Cup and intends to someday retire there.

Bonus Cynthia Fun Facts

• Cynthia is a graduate of the Hispanic Alliance for Career Enhancement’s Mujeres de HACE leadership program. 
• From 2012 to 2014, Cynthia taught English language and culture classes at a vocational school in Ourense, Spain to over 100 students.
• She was a part of the first cohort for the University of Chicago’s Rustandy Center Nonprofit Network for Strategic Operations and Finance Program.

A quote about Cynthia

“Cynthia continually challenges herself and those around her to be better. She challenges them to help and support others, and to dream bigger. I am so proud of the impact she has had on the communities as well as her personal growth and leadership. She cares deeply for others, is an incredible cheerleader and supporter, and does everything she can to be as inclusive of others. She is a pioneer in every aspect of her career and personal life, and truly embodies what it means to be a Grinnellian.”

Joy Sales ’13

Reunion: 10th
Residence: Los Angeles, California
Grinnell majors: History and German
Other degrees: Master of Arts and Ph.D. in history from Northwestern University (2014, 2019)
Profession: Assistant professor of Asian American studies 

A community-engaged educator and scholar, Joy Sales is an assistant professor of Asian American studies at California State University, Los Angeles. She has been an active member in the Malaya Movement LA and supports Filipino student issues in the Cal State University system. While at Grinnell, Sales was a Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellow. She returned to campus in 2016 as a visiting assistant professor to share her research and expertise in Asian American activism. In 2018, she was awarded a highly competitive Ford Foundation Dissertation Fellowship. Sales’ volunteerism includes serving as a Grinnell-in-Los Angeles Regional Community co-coordinator. 

3 ways Joy embodies Grinnell College’s mission of lifetime learning and service

1. As an assistant professor of Asian American studies at the California State University, Los Angeles, Joy studies social movements, migration, labor, race, and the history of radical activism in the Filipino American. She also teaches a range of classes including Introduction to Filipino/x Studies and Asian American history.
2. As a community-engaged scholar, Joy has been an active member in the Malaya Movement LA and has supported Filipino student issues in the Cal State University system, including presenting to Kalahi (Cal State LA’s Filipino Club) and the Cal State Student Association on human rights issues in the Philippines. In graduate school, she was involved in Anakbayan, an international Filipino youth and student organization that strives for genuine democracy in the Philippines.
3. Joy is a Grinnell-in-Los Angeles Regional Community co-coordinator. She has helped plan summer picnics and other regional events. Additionally, she serves on her Reunion Class Committee. 

Something you probably didn’t know about Joy

Joy returned to Grinnell College in the fall of 2016 as a visiting professor to teach a short course on Asian American activism. 

Bonus Joy Fun Facts

• While a student at Grinnell, Joy was selected as a Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellow. 
• In 2018, she earned a Ford Foundation Dissertation Fellowship by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. The fellowship provided one year of support to complete her dissertation, “Diasporic Struggle: Transnational Activism, Migration, and Anti-Imperialism in Filipino America, 1964-1991.”
• Joy produced the Pinoy Show, an annual cultural production by the Philippine Student Association at Northwestern University. She also served as chairperson of GABRIELA Chicago, an international alliance of organizations dedicated to the liberation of Filipino women. 

A quote about Joy

“Joy has been recognized in her profession for her scholarship, service, and teaching excellence. She does all the expected things, developing curricula, advising students, continuing research while actively teaching. However, while teaching courses during the pandemic, she concentrated on what her students needed most: compassion and flexibility. This helped her create a supportive learning environment and build community to counteract the isolating effect of the pandemic on students.”

– Kathy Andersen ’13