91ֱ��

Recognized for: Professional Achievement 

Ken Butigan, Class of 1972 (HS), has built an extraordinary career marked by global influence, academic excellence and a lifelong commitment to advancing nonviolence and peace. His connection to 91ֱ��’s began early—graduating as Salutatorian and serving as a key member of the debate team under Fr. Nicholas Rausch, during which he earned more than 30 awards in speech and debate, including a state championship in oratory. As an alum, Ken has remained engaged with 91ֱ��’s, returning as a speaker for the Benedictine Institute Lecture Series in 2014 and serving as an adjunct faculty member during the 2002–2003 academic year.  He also directed 91ֱ��’s Spiritual Life Institute for two years.

Professionally, Ken is recognized as a leading scholar and practitioner in the global nonviolence movement. For decades, he taught in DePaul University’s Peace, Justice, and Conflict Studies Program in Chicago, helping shape the next generation of peacebuilders with tools for conflict transformation, anti-racism, movement-building and nonviolent action. He received DePaul’s Excellence in Teaching Award in 2023 and delivered the Distinguished Faculty Lecture at the 2025 Honors Convocation. 

Beyond the classroom, Kenneth has been deeply involved in shaping international Catholic perspectives on nonviolence, playing a key role in organizing two landmark conferences at the Vatican on nonviolence, publishing widely and speaking extensively on Gospel nonviolence, and joining with colleagues from around the world to establish the Catholic Institute for Nonviolence in Rome, which was blessed by Pope Francis at its launch.  Last October he joined with a colleague in briefly meeting with Pope Leo to share news of the institute with His Holiness.

Ken’s impact extends powerfully into community action and global advocacy. In the 1980s, he co-founded and served as national coordinator of the Pledge of Resistance, a nationwide movement mobilizing nonviolent action for peace in Central America. Over the decades, he played a part in nonviolent movements successfully establishing the international Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, supporting the rights of unhoused, and resisting wars and policies of torture.  He also played a strategic role with Pace e Bene Nonviolence Service, helping to launch Campaign Nonviolence—an annual initiative that, in 2025 alone, coordinated more than 5,600 events around the world promoting a culture free from war, racism, poverty and ecological destruction. 

A prolific author and editor of 10 books and an advisor to peace efforts worldwide, Ken concluded his distinguished academic career when he retired from DePaul in June 2025, receiving at that time the university’s highest honor, the Via Sapientiae – Way of Wisdom – Award.  His lifelong dedication to education, justice and human dignity continues to transform communities around the world. Ken’s enduring commitment to creating a more just and peaceful society exemplifies the very best of 91ֱ��’s, making him a deserving recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award for Professional Achievement. 

Recognized for: Professional Achievement 

Joe Deck, CPA Class of 1984, has built a distinguished career in business leadership and financial management while remaining a dedicated supporter of 91ֱ��’s University and the greater Thurston County community. A proud 91ֱ��’s graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and Business Management, Joe has remained closely connected to the University throughout his life. He has served on both the 91ֱ��’s Athletic Department Board and the University’s financial board, returned as a guest speaker for business classes, and supported Saints Athletics through generous contributions from Northwest Harley-Davidson—where he now serves as co-owner and Vice President — and through his own personal philanthropy. 

Joe’s professional journey reflects a deep commitment to excellence and service. After earning his CPA designation in 1990, he began his career with Knight, Vale & Gregory, where he spent ten successful years as a Certified Public Accountant. He is a current member of the Washington State Board of Accountants and American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Joe advanced into senior leadership roles, serving as Chief Financial Officer for Boone Ford, Northwest Harely-Davidson and Prime Time Partners, a real estate development company where he helped develop what is known as Freedom Point Plaza. Since 2013, Joe has guided NW Harley Davidson as co-owner and VP, helping grow one of the region’s most recognized and community-focused businesses.  

A lifelong resident of Thurston County and a graduate of Tumwater High School, Joe has dedicated decades to meaningful community involvement. He has been an active sponsor and participant in Olympia’s Toy Run supporting Toys for Tots and has provided leadership to numerous local organizations. His service includes roles as President of O’Bee Credit Union’s Board of Directors, current President of the Swiss Sportsman’s Club of Tacoma, and Secretary of the Swiss Men’s Society. He has also supported youth and community development through board positions with the Olympia STARS Foundation, Tumwater Rotary, Boys and Girls Club of Thurston County, during their initial start-up years overseeing their account systems, Rebuilding Together Thurston County, and Pope John Paul II High School. Along with his wife (CC) of 33 years, Joe is a member of St. Michaels Catholic church where he has been involved in various aspects of the church and ministry.

Joe’s enduring commitment to his profession and his community exemplifies the values of 91ֱ��’s University. His leadership, generosity and dedication to service have earned him the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award for Professional Achievement. 

Recognized for: Service to 91ֱ��’s 

Br. Edmund Ebbers, Class of 1987, has dedicated more than five decades of faithful service to 91ֱ��’s Abbey and the broader 91ֱ��’s community. Joining the Abbey in 1968, Br. Edmund has lived out the Benedictine values of prayer, work and hospitality with extraordinary humility and devotion. Raised on a farm near Caldwell, Idaho, he first entered monastic life at Mount Angel Abbey before discerning a call to 91ֱ��’s, where he would ultimately build a lifetime of service rooted in compassion and care.

 Throughout his monastic vocation, Br. Edmund has served the Abbey in numerous capacities, becoming especially known for his ministry to elderly monks. Recognizing the growing needs of the community, he pursued training as a Licensed Practical Nurse and eventually became the primary on-site caregiver for aging members of the monastic community—offering both clinical care and a comforting presence grounded in deep respect for the dignity of each person. His work has been essential to sustaining the health and well-being of the Abbey over many decades. 

In addition to his healthcare ministry, Br. Edmund is admired for his craftsmanship and creativity. He has hand-crafted countless rosaries that have been sent to mission sites around the world, extending 91ֱ��’s spirit of faith far beyond campus. He has also contributed significantly to the Abbey’s gardening efforts, tending the grounds with the same quiet dedication that characterizes all of his work. Known affectionately as the tallest monk in the Abbey, he embodies the Benedictine motto Ora et Labora—“pray and work”—in both presence and practice. 

Due to Br. Edmund’s unwavering commitment, gentle leadership and lifetime of service, 91ֱ��’s University is proud to award him with the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award for Service to 91ֱ��’s. His legacy continues to enrich the Abbey and inspire all who call 91ֱ��’s home. 

Recognized for: Service to Community 

Rev. Bill Hausmann, SJ †, Class of HS’44, is remembered as a joyful, dedicated servant of God whose life embodied compassion, leadership and an unwavering commitment to others. During his years as a student at 91ֱ��’s High School, Fr. Bill distinguished himself both in and out of the classroom—excelling as a standout basketball and football player, serving as ASB President, earning honor roll distinctions, and contributing to both the yearbook and student newspaper. These early experiences laid the foundation for a lifetime of service marked by humility, energy and deep care for the people he encountered. Rev. Hausmann was also the youngest of four brothers to attend and graduate from 91ֱ��’s High School his three brothers were Francis, Bob, and Bryce Hausmann.  

After high school, Fr. Bill served in the Navy during World War II and later graduated from Santa Clara University in 1950. He worked for a time in his family’s meat business in Everett before discerning a call to religious life. Entering the Jesuit Novitiate in Sheridan, Oregon in 1956, he began the formation journey that led to his ordination as a Jesuit priest on June 4, 1966 in Spokane. From that moment forward, parish ministry became the heart of his vocation. Across the Pacific Northwest, Fr. Bill served in numerous parish communities—including St. Leo (Tacoma), Sacred Heart (Enumclaw), St. Joseph (Cloverdale), St. Ignatius (Portland), St. Michael (Olympia), St. Joseph (Seattle) and St. Francis Xavier (Missoula)—bringing with him a pastoral presence marked by warmth, joy and a genuine love for people. His ability to meet parishioners where they were, listen deeply, and accompany them through their hopes, fears and daily challenges made him a beloved priest and trusted friend. 

In 2000, after suffering a stroke, Fr. Bill stepped back from administrative duties but not from ministry. His desire to continue serving God’s people drew him to Gonzaga University, where he joined the Office of University Ministry. There, he became a cherished presence to students and staff—celebrating sacraments, sharing meals and fostering conversations about faith, justice and vocation. His energy, humor and spiritual insight enriched the lives of countless individuals who found comfort and inspiration in his company. 

Fr. Bill passed away in 2013, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, service and steadfast devotion to community. His life continues to inspire all who knew him, and he is fondly remembered by his family, parishioners and the wider Jesuit and 91ֱ��’s communities. His enduring impact makes him a well-deserving recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award for Service to Community. 

Recognized for: Professional Achievement

Cynthia Heye Lamothe, Class of 1977 and 1980, is a pioneering civil engineer whose career reflects exceptional leadership, technical expertise and service to her community. As one of the earliest women to graduate from 91ֱ��’s University with a degree in Civil Engineering, Cindy helped pave the way for future generations of women in STEM. Her trailblazing spirit and commitment to excellence continued well beyond her time as a student, guiding a distinguished professional journey rooted in public service and community impact. 

After earning her Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Cindy followed on with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from 91ֱ��’s and a Master’s in Civil Engineering from Memphis State University. She began her career in the public sector as a student working for the City of Tumwater and then a private firm in Tacoma.  After graduation, she returned to public service working for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at locations around the world for nine years.  After a nearly two-decade long hiatus devoted to family priorities, she returned to the workforce at the age of 50, working for three years at an engineering firm before transitioning to a public role with the City of Auburn as the water engineer. Her expertise, leadership and dedication to equitable access to essential services led her to the Skyway Water and Sewer District, where she serves as the General Manager. In this role, Cindy guides critical infrastructure planning and community service delivery, including her leadership as past president of the Washington Association of Sewer and Water Districts.

Cindy’s commitment to community extends far beyond her professional responsibilities. She actively serves the Skyway community through development of a tool-lending program that will support residents in maintaining and improving their homes. She also serves as an elected commissioner for King County Fire District No. 20, demonstrating the trust and respect she has earned from her community. Deeply rooted in her faith, Cindy has served as a Eucharistic minister at her church, offering spiritual support with the same generosity and dedication that characterize her public service. 

A leader, mentor and devoted community advocate, Cindy exemplifies the values of 91ֱ��’s University. The 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award for Professional Achievement is awarded to Cindy Lamothe for her professional achievements and enduring commitment to service.  

Recognized for: Community Service 

Dan O’Neill, Class of HS’68, is a dedicated community leader, accomplished business owner and steadfast advocate for education and environmental stewardship in the South Puget Sound region. A graduate of 91ֱ��’s High School, Dan has continued his connection to the institution throughout his life and now serves as a valued member of the 91ֱ��’s University Board of Trustees. His leadership reflects the values of service, integrity and stewardship instilled in him during his early years at 91ֱ��’s. 

After graduating from the University of Portland in 1972 and serving in the U.S. Air Force, Dan began building what would become a thriving and influential family enterprise. As owner of The Barn Nursery and Great Western Supply—part of the broader O’Neill and Sons business—he has championed sustainable practices, environmental respect and innovation in local industry. His contributions have earned significant recognition, including the Thurston County Chamber Distinguished Leader Award in 2016 and a Leadership in Philanthropy Award from the South Sound Partners for Philanthropy in 2004. Demonstrating his lifelong commitment to learning, Dan earned a Master’s degree in Environmental Science from The Evergreen State College in 2012. 

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dan has made a profound impact through decades of community service. He has served on the Board of The Community Foundation of South Puget Sound and has been deeply involved in regional philanthropic and civic organizations. His volunteer contributions include service on the SPSCC Foundation Board of Directors, the Olympia Tumwater Foundation Board, the Strophy Foundation, the Thurston County Chamber membership drive, and numerous other local initiatives. Dan is also the co-chair and founding member of Tumwater Citizens for Better Education, where he has been a strong advocate for high-quality education and community engagement in the Tumwater School District. 

Dan O’Neill’s leadership, generosity and unwavering dedication to community well-being make him an exemplary recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award for Community Service. His work continues to enrich the region and inspire all who share his commitment to building a stronger, more compassionate South Puget Sound community.