James Ledford is studying mechanical engineering at St. Cloud State.  He really enjoys math and science and, after graduation, would like to work with a company that focuses on making products more reliable and safe for consumers.  His particular interest is in mechanical testing. Married for a year, James enjoys volunteering with his church, good movies, and hiking.

  From Enumclaw, WA, Melissa Snoen has always been interested in dance.  While it has been her biggest challenge, it has also been her biggest success.   In planning for her post-secondary education, Melissa looked for a reputable ballet department where she could put her emphasis on teaching.  She found what she was looking for at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City.  Melissa, whose mother is Michelle Conklin (nee Henry), is a 12^th generation descendant of Jean Durand dit Lafortune.

  The oldest of four girls, Kara Ripley of New Richmond, WI has been studying at the University of Wisconsin River Falls.  She has been accepted at St. Thomas, St. Paul, MN this fall as a second-semester junior majoring in Catholic studies and English.  One of her dreams is to work at the Vatican some day!  Kara credits her mother, grandmothers, and aunts with teaching her how to be a good and fair lady by showing and sharing grace in their own households.  Kara is the daughter of Gerald Christopher Ripley and Ingrid Hochanadel Ripley, and the granddaughter of Rodney and Joyce Durand Ripley.

  Carolyn James from Greeley, Colorado will attend Benedictine College in Atchison, KS with proposed majors of history and art.  Carolyn has also been very involved in music throughout high school – both at school and at her church where she had the opportunity to canter the Psalm during Mass.  She plans on continuing to play trumpet in the Benedictine band.  Carolyn is the daughter of Daniel and Amy Losleben James.  Her  grandparents are Dan and Virginia Durand James.

  Jessica Mueller, also from Greeley, Colorado will study biomedical science at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, CO.  Her experiences with family and friends have given her an appreciation of the ability of the body to heal – and of the doctors who dedicate their lives to preserving life in others.  Jessica plans to dedicate herself to building a solid foundation in the science and math fields and to taking a serious approach to her studies. (Picture N/A.)