In this episode of the Always a Raven podcast, host Janelle Menz sits down with longtime music faculty member and beloved mentor Ruth Krusemark '73 to talk about her decades at Benedictine College.

Ruth shares how she first came to the college, the moments that shaped her career, and the joy she’s found in watching generations of students discover their gifts. She reflects on the friendships, traditions, and unexpected opportunities that have kept her rooted in the Benedictine community for so many years.

It’s a warm conversation about calling, connection, and the lasting harmony between a teacher and the place she’s called home.

In this episode of The Always a Raven podcast, host Janelle Menz sits down with Melinda Pregont ’09—former Lady Raven basketball player, healthcare leader, and owner of Trusted Care, a holistic wellness clinic.

In this episode of The Always A Raven podcast, host Janelle Menz sits down with Keith Hertling ’79—Raven Hall of Famer, and current Senior Vice President of Coaching and Culture at Jersey Mike’s Subs Franchise Systems.

In this episode of the Always A Raven podcast, host Janelle Menz sits down with Pat Henneberry ’84—author, motivational speaker, and diamond industry executive with a career that’s taken her from Benedictine College to the mines of South Africa.

In this episode of The Always A Raven podcast, host Janelle Menz sits down with Chris Tabor ’93—NFL coach, former Raven player, and a powerful example of quiet leadership shaped by faith, discipline, and character.

In this episode of The Always A Raven podcast, host Janelle Menz sits down with Clare Hansen ’18—head coach of the Benedictine College women’s lacrosse team and one of the most unlikely success stories in Raven athletics.

Clare arrived at Benedictine having never played lacrosse. But within just a few seasons, she became a standout player in the fledgling program. By 2021, she had stepped into the head coaching role—and in only four years, led the team to two national championships.

In this conversation, Clare shares how she went from complete beginner to national champion, the lessons she learned through trial, error, and perseverance, and how she’s built a team culture rooted in grit, growth, and heart.

It’s an inspiring story of saying “yes” to the unexpected—and discovering just how far passion and persistence can take you.

In this episode of The Always A Raven podcast, host Janelle Menz sits down with Larry Wilcox '72—legendary coach, devoted alumnus, and one of the most accomplished figures in NAIA football history.

Coach Wilcox reflects on his remarkable 41-year career leading the Benedictine Ravens, from his humble beginnings in 1979—when he juggled roles as head football and baseball coach, residence hall director, intramurals coordinator, and classroom instructor—to his final season in 2020. Along the way, he racked up over 300 career wins, eight Heart Championships, and a National Championship appearance in 2018.

But this conversation goes beyond the numbers. It’s a look at a life dedicated to a community, a campus, and the young men he’s coached over four decades. Whether you're a Raven fan or just love a good story about loyalty, leadership, and legacy—this one’s for you.

In this episode of The Always A Raven podcast, host Janelle Menz welcomes Terry Gainer, Class of 1969—a proud Raven whose career has left a lasting mark on American law enforcement and public service.

From his days on campus to his service as the U.S. Senate Sergeant at Arms, Terry shares stories that are as gripping as they are inspiring. He opens up about the defining moments that shaped his path—from military service to high-stakes decisions in the nation’s capital.

Terry’s journey speaks volumes—and this conversation is one that will stay with you.