Reflections Magazine Issue #70 - Fall 2009 | Page 11

Anniversary Feature

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St. Catherine of Siena

Father John Keefer

Robert Price

The name Siena Heights honors St. Catherine of
Siena, a 14th century Italian Dominican who dedicated her life to a quest for truth and social responsibility. St. Catherine was one of the most brilliant
theological minds of her day, although she never had
any formal education. She is the patroness of Siena
Heights University and a Doctor of the Church, and
her letters, and a treatise called “a dialogue” are considered among the most brilliant writings in the history
of the Catholic Church. She died in 1380 at age 33.

Father John Keefer served as Siena Heights chaplain
for nine years from 1969-78. Known as a creative
and dynamic spiritual leader at Siena, Fr. Keefer also
was an active participant in campus life, appearing
frequently in college theater productions and earning
a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in ceramics. He was
awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters
degree in 1978, and 25 years later, was a featured guest
at Alumni Weekend, when many alumni – including couples he had married – returned to hear him
preach. He died Dec. 17, 2008.

Robert Price is a former Board of Trustees member
who has been one of the most supportive friends
of the university for many years. The owner of the
Adrian-based Primore/Sedco businesses, Price
currently is a Trustee Emeritus who continues to stay
involved with Siena Heights. Through his generosity
many university projects and initiatives have been
completed, including the recent renovation of the
athletic locker rooms.

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Rick Haller

Rick Haller ’07 completed his bachelor’s degree and
certificate in Theological Studies from Siena Heights
in 2007. He is president and COO of Detroit-based
Walbridge, one of the largest construction companies in the country. He has put his experience and
knowledge toward working with other colleagues to
influence their business practices, especially in regard
to ethics. He is someone who has a deep understanding and conviction of what it means to live as a Catholic Christian serving his family, his parish and his
work in an ethical and exemplary manner.

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Rosemarie Van d’Elden Birman
After growing up in Germany where her father
worked for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Rosie’s
f