March 2013
SIUE Athletics Raises $8600 for Cancer Research
SIUE women's basketball, the SIUE Department of Athletics, and the campus community came together on February 16 for the first annual Pink Zone basketball game and fundraiser where they created awareness for breast cancer and raised $8,602 for the St. Louis affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
"Komen St. Louis appreciates the efforts of everyone who organized and supported SIUE's Pink Zone," said Helen Chesnut, Komen St. Louis Executive Director and breast cancer survivor. "Pink Zone is an excellent example of how individuals can work together to make a real impact in the local fight against breast cancer. Every dollar raised through these efforts will help provide breast health and breast cancer care for women and families in our community who otherwise may not have access."
A committee of 10 people, connected to the cause and/or campus, put together a variety of opportunities for the community to get involved including a kick-off reception on Feb. 13 that was hosted at the Doubletree by Hilton in Collinsville. At the reception Chesnut spoke on the importance of supporting the cause.
"Having a strong speaker at the reception helps promote the event as well as gives it great credibility," Head Women's Basketball Coach Paula Buscher said. "All of us got to hear from someone that has been directly impacted by the disease and it makes it personal."
Along with the reception, a bucket raffle and silent auction raised funds. At the game on the 16 th, 16 runners and bikers received pledges to exercise for five-minute intervals in honor or remembrance of someone close to them who has battled breast cancer. The exercisers were started by Director of Athletics Dr. Brad Hewitt and included other familiar campus faces, such as Chancellor Julie Furst-Bowe, Darleen Harmon and Kara Shustrin among others.
In front of 2,436 fans, the largest women's basketball home crowd of the season, 23 breast cancer survivors were honored at halftime. They were welcomed by Chancellor Furst-Bowe and Chesnut.
This was the first annual Pink Zone under Buscher's guidance. She stated that she hoped it is just the beginning of a greater partnership and event.
"We had the opportunity to raise awareness and raise funds to help find a cure for breast cancer," Buscher said. "We work with young female athletes day in and day out, so it was a natural cause to embrace. Our goal is that someday we will find a cure so the student-athletes who I am blessed to work with will never have to fight the same battles."
SIUE Graduate School Presents 17th Annual Spring Symposium
A look into innovative teaching methods, models and research is part of the 17 th Annual Graduate School Spring Research Symposium from Monday, April 1-Tuesday, April 2 on the campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.
"The Graduate School Spring Symposium recognizes and celebrates the symbiotic relationship between scholarship and teaching," said Jerry Weinberg, associate provost for research and dean of the SIUE Graduate School. "To have excellent teaching we need to have vibrant scholars who continue to add to the body of knowledge in their field and bring their discovery to the classroom to make their instruction living and relevant."
The first day of the Symposium will focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. Martin Storksdieck, the director of the Board on Science Education at the National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences will be the featured speaker. Presentations will begin at 1 p.m. in the Mississippi/Illinois Room of the Morris University Center (MUC).
"Educating and graduating the next generation of STEM developers and leaders is paramount for keeping the United States ahead in the technology curve," said Weinberg. "It is also critical for society as a whole in solving such serious problems as serving an aging population with autonomous robots or providing sustainable solutions to consuming limited resources."
On Tuesday, the day will begin with keynote speaker, Dr. Robert M. Augustine, dean of the Graduate School at Eastern Illinois University and chair of the Board of Directors of the Council of Graduate Schools at Eastern. Augustine will discuss the importance of graduate programs to the overall health of academics from 9-10 a.m. in the Maple/Dogwood Room of the MUC.
The Paul Simon Outstanding Teacher-Scholar Award Luncheon will be held from 11:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m. in the Madison Room of the MUC Meridian Ballroom. Dr. Andrew Pomerantz, professor of psychology in the SIUE School of Education, will be acknowledged as the SIUE 2013 Paul Simon Outstanding Teacher-Scholar Award recipient. More information about Pomerantz is available on SIUE's website.
The Paul Simon Outstanding Teacher-Scholar Award is highly competitive and is given annually to a faculty member who has a proven record of combining research/scholarship and teaching. It emphasizes that SIUE is committed to the concept that faculty members must be good scholars in order to be good teachers.
Reservations are required to attend the luncheon. To register and for a full schedule of events, visit the Spring Symposium's website.
SIUE School of Engineering Hosts Annual Awards Banquet
More than 300 alumni, students, faculty, staff and industry friends turned out Tuesday for the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Engineering's 7 th Annual Awards Banquet.
The event recognized outstanding students, alumni, teachers, researchers and retiring employees.
"This event is a celebration of the outstanding accomplishments of the School's students, faculty and alumni," said School of Engineering Dean Hasan Sevim. "We truly appreciate our many friends and supporters of the School joining us to honor and recognize our award winners."
Bruce Schopp, who graduated in 1982 from SIUE with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and is a licensed professional and structural engineer spoke about how his family, as well as his parents, teachers and students are important to him and to SIUE. Schopp is president and COO of Oates Associates and is active in the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers. He also is a member of the SIUE School of Engineering Advisory Board and serves as vice president of the Board of Directors for the American Council of Engineering Companies.
Those honored during the awards banquet included the following:
Civil Engineering
- Out standing Junior - Lacey Albers
- Out standing Senior - Bradley Ripley
- Out standing Graduate Student - Jessica Eichhorst
- Out standing Alumna - Vicki S. LaRose
- Out standing Faculty - Dr. Ryan Fries
Construction
- Out standing Junior - Tony Probst
- Out standing Senior - Bryon Graminski
- Out standing Alumnus - Keith Poettker and Ryan Poettker
- Out standing Faculty - Dr. Anne Werner
Computer Science
- Out standing Junior - Elizabeth Littman
- Out standing Senior - Nate Lawson
- Out standing Graduate Student - Alex Towell
- Out standing Alumnus - David McQuinn
- Out standing Faculty - Dr. Gary Mayer
Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Out standing Junior - Christopher Branch
- Out standing Senior - Loree Hayden
- Out standing Graduate Student - Missael Garcia
- Out standing Alumnus - Rob Beutel
- Out standing Faculty - Dr. Ying Shang
Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering
- Outstanding Junior - Clayton Marsland
- Outstanding Senior - Ayse Betul Akyuz
- Outstanding Graduate Student - Nima Rafibakhsh
- Outstanding Alumna - Sherri L. Koehnemann
- Outstanding Faculty - Dr. Emmanuel Eneyo
Mechanical and Industrial Engineering
- Outstanding Junior - Luke Hunt
- Outstanding Senior - Derek Hoerchler
- Outstanding Graduate Student - Richard George
- Outstanding Alumnus - Thomas Petrunich
- Outstanding Faculty - Dr. Serdar Celik
Awards also were given to Dr. Xin Chen from the Industrial and Manufacturing department for Outstanding Researcher; Mike Basler from Basler Electric for Outstanding Adjunct Instructor; Mike Blakey from Anheuser Busch for Outstanding Advisory Board Member; Dr. Albert Luo of the Mechanical Engineering department, and Marty Reynolds from the Environmental Resources Training Center for Outstanding Service. Retiring faculty member Dr. Luis Youn, professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, also was honored.
Retired U.S. Congressman Costello to Reflect on 25 Years of Service
Retired U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello will reflect on 25 years of service to his country when he speaks at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 4 in the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's Lovejoy Library Abbott Auditorium.
Costello currently is the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute Leader in Residence at the SIU Carbondale campus. The engagement is being made possible through a collaborative effort that involves the Civic Education Project, which is a public service initiative of the SIUE Department of Political Science, and the Political Science Association.
"This event is part of a lecture series on the Carbondale and Edwardsville campuses that aims to further civic education and engagement," said Dr. Laurie Rice, an associate professor of political science at SIUE and the coordinator of the Civic Education Project.
During his visit, Costello will discuss:
- How Congress has changed during the last 25 years
- The lessons he has learned during his public service
- What today's political leaders can do to better address the critical issues facing the United States.
The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Dr. Laurie Rice, an associate professor of political science at SIUE, larice@siue.edu.
SIUE Golden Key Chapter Receives Bronze Rating
Promoting literacy is one reason that Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's Chapter of the Golden Key International Honour Society has received a Bronze ranking. SIUE's chapter received the recognition for the 2011-2012 academic year.
"Being at the Bronze level shows that we are making a difference," said Dr. James Panico, associate professor in the speech-language pathology program. "That's important considering we are a service organization." Panico has been SIUE's Golden Key Chapter's advisor for the past six years and also has been a member since his undergraduate days at the University of Florida in Gainesville.
Service is one of the three pillars of Golden Key, according to SIUE Chapter President Elizabeth Paquin. The other two are academics and leadership.
SIUE received its bronze distinction because it met the requirements, some of which dealt with membership, organizational structure, budget and community service.
The University's chapter is involved with several community service projects with literacy as the main theme, said Paquin.
"Literacy is a big deal," the chapter president said. "We are working on the Literacy Alive event in collaboration with Kappa Delta Pi Education Honor Society."
The literacy event involves students at Kreitner Elementary School in Collinsville. "We read to the students, talk about the story and give them books when we're done," said Paquin.
Some other previous community service efforts completed by SIUE's Golden Key Chapter included collecting 600 books for donation to the SIUE Head Start/Early Head Start program and the Alton Hope Center.
SIUE's Golden Key Chapter, which started in 2002, has 200 active members and 19 honorary members. Golden Key International Honour Society has more than 400 chapters at colleges and universities around the globe. The Honour Society has more than 2 million members, including honorees Desmond Tutu and Bill Clinton.
The Honour Society requires that college students, from sophomores through graduate level, academically rank in the top 15 percent of their class. Learning, leading and helping others is part of the group's mission. Golden Key offers its members exclusive opportunities and connections through $1 million in scholarships, awards, partnerships with major corporations, career advancement and graduate programs. For more information about Golden Key, visit goldenkey.org.
Photo Information:
Pictured is Dr. James Panico
SIUE Recognizes Sexual Assault Awareness During April
Next week on the campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, men and women will have opportunities to stand up, speak out and join in the conversations and activities about sexual assault. SIUE will observe its 8 th annual Sexual Assault Awareness Week from April 1-5.
"There is no excuse to ignore or joke about rape," said Justin Allen, wellness coordinator at SIUE Counseling & Health Services. "There also is no excuse to blame the victim."
Because sexual assault devastates victims and impacts communities, the SIUE Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Task Force and SIUE Counseling Services have organized a variety of programs and activities. The aim is to increase awareness within the campus community regarding sexual assault.
The Task Force also is promoting SIUE's participation in the national campaign, Denim Day in the USA, on Wednesday, April 24. Denim Day is a sexual violence prevention and education campaign. People are asked to observe the day and make a social statement by wearing jeans as a sign to protest misconceptions about sexual assault. This is the first time SIUE will participate in the day. It was a major goal of Counseling Services Graduate Assistant Sydney Greenwalt to make that happen.
"The definition of sexual assault is any sexual interaction where you do not consent," Allen said. "It's hard to bring up the topic of sexual assault, but we have to talk about it. It's important to take a stance against attitudes and beliefs. When you negatively characterize a person, it dehumanizes them. Everyone has a woman they care about, such as their mother, sister or friend, and wouldn't want them to be treated badly."
But that is also not to say that sexual assault does not occur to men, he said. "Men are assaulted and few report it."
The following will occur during Sexual Assault Awareness Week:
- A Morris University Center Bookstore display from April 1-5 featuring stories about survivors of sexual assault and other empowering books.
- "Take Back the Night" event at 7 p.m. April 2. Participants will walk with a candle from the Vadalabene Center to the Morris University Center and then attend a poetry slam hosted by the student organization One Mic.
- "Clothesline" activity from 11 a.m.-1p.m. April 3 in Goshen Lounge. Participants can write empowering messages on T-shirts and pin them to a "clothesline."
- Kickboxing for a Cause: Knocking Out Sexual Assault from 4:30-5:30 p.m. April 3 in the Student Activity Center in the Vadalabene Center. This event is a specially scheduled group fitness class being offered by Campus Recreation.
- "Walk a Mile in Her Shoes" activity is scheduled for noon on April 4 on the quad. This event is targeted to men, who will be able to don high-heel shoes, provided by the Washington University St. Louis' CORE, and walk across campus.
For more information about Denim Day in the USA, visit the national website at denimdayusa.org.
SIUE Hosts ASCE Mid-Continent Student Conference
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is hosting the 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Mid-Continent Student Conference from April 4-6. Approximately 330 civil engineering students and faculty from 15 Midwest universities will participate in the event.
"The many competitive activities provide numerous opportunities for the students to put into practice what they learn in the classroom," said Brent Vaughn, laboratory specialist and lecturer in the SIUE School of Engineering, and faculty advisor to the student ASCE chapter. "They learn about time and cost management, and most importantly learn to work with team members to achieve goals. Many employers look for students who have demonstrated their skills and initiative with these projects."
The conference begins on Thursday, April 4, with a steel bridge competition in the Morris University Center Meridian Ballroom. At the event, students erect the bridges in a timed event across a hypothetical river following a set of work site rules. Each bridge is then loaded with 2,500 pounds of steel, while key points on the bridge are carefully monitored for deflection.
On Friday, April 5, three events will include a technical paper competition, a geowall competition and a concrete bowling competition. The concrete canoes also will be displayed in the Engineering Building courtyard through noon, and formal presentations will be made in the Engineering Building auditorium in the afternoon. Following display judging, there will be a dunk test and a formal oral presentation.
The highlight of the conference is the concrete canoe races on Saturday, April 6, beginning at 9 a.m. at Cougar Lake Marina. Teams compete in various races with two, three or four paddlers The SIUE Concrete Canoe Team won last year's competition at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The team placing first overall will be invited to the national competition.
"This conference gives civil engineering students excellent experience in project management, team building, and leadership," said Evan Wilson, chair of the conference. "The competition teams enable us to develop professionally, personally and academically to become more capable engineers. We also get to work with our hands, along with our minds, to complete some truly unique projects."
For more information, visit the conference website.
Rock Star of Writers David Sedaris on Stage at SIUE
Brilliant, irreverent, prolific and ingenious describes the best-selling author David Sedaris, who will bring his unique and poignant talent to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Sedaris will speak at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 16 in the Morris University Center Meridian Ballroom.
Sedaris, an American humorist, comedian, author and radio contributor, has been described as the "rock star of writers." Sedaris was nominated for three Grammy Awards for Best Spoken Word and Best Comedy Album.
"We're thrilled to have David Sedaris coming to SIUE," said Grant Andree, director of SIUE's Arts & Issues and assistant director of development in the College of Arts and Sciences. "He's one of the hottest writers in the country, with 7 million books in print. He's been called 'one of America's preeminent humor writers.' This is a show guaranteed to entertain."
Some of Sedaris best-selling and popular works include Barrel Fever, Naked, Me Talk Pretty One Day, Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim and When You Are Engulfed in Flames. Sedaris' newest book, Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk: A Modest Bestiary, was published in 2010 and immediately hit the New York Times Bestseller Fiction List. The humor writer's books have been translated into 25 languages.
Sedaris also has pieces that appear regularly in The New Yorker and some have been included twice in "The Best American Essays." National Public Radio broadcast his essay "SantaLand Diaries" in 1992, and Sedaris remains a contributor to NPR.
Sedaris' next book, Let's Explore Diabetes with Owls, is due to be released this spring.
For tickets and information, visit the SIUE Dunham Hall Arts & Issues Box Office, the SIUE Morris University Center Information Booth, artsandissues.com or call (618) 650-5774.
The Arts & Issues series brings artistic excellence to the SIUE campus through an eclectic blend of speakers and performers. For more than 28 years, SIUE's Arts & Issues series has showcased some of the world's finest artists. Each season, thought-provoking speakers inspire people of all ages and backgrounds. Thanks to the underwriting of SIUE, corporations, foundations and individual donors, tickets are often discounted by as much as 75 percent.
Arts & Issues is tied to the academic mission of the University and offers unique opportunities for students, faculty, staff, and the community, to engage with performers and speakers through master classes and special sessions.
Student Diversity Awareness Event Brings Minorities Together at SIUE
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville student organizations representing a variety of minority groups joined forces Wednesday during "I See You," to promote diversity awareness and acceptance, discuss nationally significant issues and educate the larger campus community.
The day of speakers was presented as part of a Student Diversity Awareness initiative. Hundreds passed through the SIUE Morris University Center Goshen Lounge from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Some stopped by to listen to speakers on topics such as gay marriage; gender inequality and violence; living with disabilities; religious freedoms, and more.
Mary Ryan, a speech pathology graduate student and a graduate assistant in Disability Support Services, said her experiences working with individuals of varying degrees of ability have shaped her perspectives in many ways.
"I've had the opportunity to witness the many abilities of people categorized as living with and without abilities," she said. "It is important to delve further into the characteristics of a person rather than simply skim the surface. I hope that "I See You" has allowed students and staff alike to appreciate the diverse characteristics within each person, as well as within the campus community as a whole."
While these groups traditionally have been identified as minorities, the purpose of the event was to bring them together to show strength in numbers, said Shana Diamond, a senior majoring in speech language pathology. Diamond is president of New Horizons, a group that played an instrumental role in organizing the day. New Horizons is a student organization dedicated to raising disability awareness on campus.
"Over the last year or so we've noticed there hasn't been enough representation from underrepresented groups," Diamond said. "We're hoping this event will showcase the fact that we're a much larger percentage of the population than people realize."
The event, which was named "I See You," was organized as a way to introduce individual differences on a broader scale to the campus community. Diamond explained the goal is to celebrate diversity in all its forms.
"What I have noticed is you walk out of any building on campus when you get done with class, and you can observe somebody seeing someone else who looks different than you," she said. "The person looks away, because they are different. If you see someone who is different than you, and you see a smile on their face, you smile back. It is essential to realize that everybody is a human being."
Other organizations that were part of the effort included the Gay Straight Alliance, the Students for Justice in Palestine, Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Inc., the Golden Key International Honour Society, Making Waves and the Student Organization for Sustainability.
"This event is a way of seeking equality among all minorities and under-represented groups on campus," said Eric Metheny, president of the Gay Straight Alliance.
The event was part of the We Are One-We are the e" campaign. It was funded wholly or in part through Student Activity fees. For more information, search SIUE New Horizons on Facebook.
National STEM Education Expert is Keynote Speaker at SIUE Monday
Dr. Martin Storksdieck will speak at the STEM Education Research Forum on Monday, April 1, at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. The forum takes place from 1-4:30 p.m. and focuses on models, challenges and opportunities for creative solutions in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education. The event is designed to encourage networking and collaboration among area researchers, non-profits and other STEM education advocates.
Storksdieck will deliver the keynote address at 1 p.m. in the Mississippi/Illinois Room in the Morris University Center. He will present "Current Science Education Reform-Tsunami or Tempest in a Teapot?"
Storksdieck is the director of the Board of Science Education (BOSE) at the National Research Council in The National Academies, Washington, D.C. The Board has produced several influential national science education reports, including "Taking Science to School" and "Learning Science in Informal Environments."
He oversees studies that address issues related to science education and learning across the educational lifespan. These include the recent "Framework for K‐12 Science Education" that forms the blueprint for the development of the Next Generation Science Standards, and the "Successful K‐12 STEM Schools" and subsequent "Monitoring Progress Toward Successful K‐12 Education" reports.
Following Storksdieck's address, three other presentations will begin at 2:30 p.m.:
- Dr. Sue Thomas, SIUE associate provost and professor of Psychology, and Dr. Jerry Weinberg, SIUE associate provost for research and dean of the Graduate School: "Self-Efficacy - A STEM Holy Grail? Robots in middle school as a model for increasing self-efficacy."
- Dr. Troy Sadler, director of the University of Missouri-Columbia Science Education Center: "Socio-scientific Issues as Contexts for STEM Education."
- Storksdieck, who has a vast background in informal science education, also will serve as a panelist.
A networking reception will follow at 3:30 p.m. For more information, visit the STEM Forum website.
While admission is free, attendees are requested to register online.
The event is sponsored by the SIUE Graduate School and the SIUE Center for STEM Research, Education, and Outreach.
SIUE Meridian Society Hosts Spring Social at Fairmount Park
Women from around the St. Louis metro area will gather for the Meridian Derby on Tuesday, April 23 from noon - 3 p.m. at Fairmount Park Race Track in Collinsville to highlight their local philanthropic efforts. The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Meridian Society event features a Kentucky Derby theme at the Top of the Turf, a high-end venue located at the race track.
The Meridian Society is a women's philanthropic organization located on SIUE's campus. The organization promotes women's leadership and invests in SIUE community-based projects throughout the metro area. Women affiliated with the university determine funding for various initiatives. Previous beneficiaries include the SIUE Early Childhood Center and Engineers without Borders.
The Meridian Derby is a festive annual event celebrating all that the society has accomplished in the community. Dressed in their Kentucky Derby best, attendees compete in a stunning, stylistic Best Hat Contest.
Attendees should respond by April 12 to the meridiansociety@siue.edu or call (618) 650-2378 for additional details.
The Meridian Society strives to attract new members who have an affinity for SIUE and the Metro East. To learn more about these philanthropic efforts, visit www.siue.edu/meridiansociety or contact Julie Babington at (618) 650-2378 or jbabing@siue.edu.
Global Awareness Week Continues at SIUE
Students, faculty and staff sampled some German culture Tuesday in the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Goshen Lounge. The event was part of Global Awareness Week at SIUE.
Food, song and music from Germany were available for enjoyment. Providing the music was the Uber Cool band from the St. Louis area.
The band plays German pop/rock music that can be heard on German radio stations. The music ranges from the 1960s through today. For more information at the band, visit theubercool.com.
Photo Information: Gian Vianello of Uber Cool accompanies the band on the accordion.
SIUE Scores Bronze Rating in National Sustainability Assessment
Campus recycling, the Bike Share Program and green roofs are just a few reasons why Southern Illinois University Edwardsville has achieved a bronze rating in a national sustainability assessment.
SIUE Sustainability Officer Kevin Adkins submitted University information to the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS) Report on March 22. The Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) developed STARS as a way for colleges and universities to self-report and be transparent about measuring their sustainability efforts.
The STARS reporting system for the bronze category is 25 points. SIUE filed its first STARS Report with 32.25 points. The silver category requires 45 points, gold has 65 and the highest ranking is platinum with 85 points.
SIUE's report, which earned a bronze rating, can be found at stars.aashe.org.
"We've been working extremely hard, and now we have a benchmark for improvement, because you can't manage what you can't measure," Adkins said. "We are about two years away from having a total of seven buildings on campus as United States Green Building Council (USGBC) LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified. Once we've certified these seven buildings, then there will be only two universities in Illinois and Missouri who will have more LEED-certified buildings - University of Illinois and Washington University."
The University's devotion to sustainability is extensive and longstanding, according to a letter written by SIUE Chancellor Julie Furst-Bowe and submitted to AASHE. "SIUE has been engaged in activities and behaviors that enhance sustainability for many years - long before the term came into widespread use. In many cases, the activities or initiatives were undertaken for reliability or cost savings, but had 'sustainable' consequences. More recently, the campus has taken great strides toward integrating sustainability into all areas of operations and academics and is committed to continued progress on this journey."
Colleges and universities that submitted reports provide information regarding their school's activities in the categories of education/research, operations and planning, and administration/engagement. Detailed criteria determine how many points are earned in each category. Schools also can receive up to four "innovation" points.
SIUE's report includes two innovation points. One is regarding SIUE's 380-acre Nature Preserve that runs along the western edge of the campus and is available for faculty and student research, lab projects and educational opportunities. The other lists SIUE as being a founding member of Saint Louis Higher Education Sustainability Consortium (STLHESC), a formal network of regional two- and four-year colleges and universities collaborating to further sustainability.
"This is not a competition," Adkins said. "It is a rating system, and I'm going to go out on a limb and say that within three years SIUE will gain a silver rating."
The Great Disability Challenge is Part of the Fun at Cougar World Games
The Great Disability Challenge (GDC,) which includes sitting volleyball, wheelchair basketball, cane travel and a hearing simulation, is featured within the 6th Annual Cougar World Games at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Part of SIUE's Global Awareness Week, the Cougar World Games will be held from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, March 28 at the Student Fitness Center.
"Those playing sitting volleyball will not be allowed to get off the floor during the game, allowing players to experience a Paralympic sport," said Mary Ryan of SIUE Disability Support Services. The GDC is offered by the office of Disability Support Services at SIUE.
The hearing simulation involves listening to a muffled recording of a voice citing words to spell. "You have to figure out what words the voice is saying, giving you an idea of what the hearing impaired experience," Ryan said.
Other events that will take place during the Cougar World Games include special demonstrations such as yoga, Zumba, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and a musical performance, "Folk Music from Latvia," by SIUE student cellist Magdalena Sustere.
The Cougar World Games is a special event designed to promote diversity, understanding and acceptance between groups with different cultures, backgrounds and ethnicities through participation in various recreational activities offered across the globe, according to Natalie Rosales, recreation coordinator at the Student Fitness Center at SIUE.
"The basic concept allows students to visit stations set-up as various countries and continents learning about culture, sports, music, ethnic foods and more," Rosales said. "Station activities include table tennis, bouldering, cycling, arts and crafts, badminton, soccer and ethnic food".
SIUE students who visit all stations that are part of The Cougar World Games will receive a 6th Annual Cougar World Games T-shirt.
The event is free and open to everyone.
SIUE Global Awareness Week Starts March 25
Global Awareness Week begins on March 25 and lasts through March 29. During the week there will be speaker presentations, performances, activities, events and displays to promote fun and learning, according to Dr. Ron Schaefer, director of the Center for International Programs at SIUE.
Some presentation highlights include:
• March 25, 9:30-11 a.m. in ENG 1008, "2014 World Cup and 2016 Olympic Summer Games," Jim Harrison of Cobhan Aerospace Communications
• March 26, 12:30-1:45 p.m. in Founders Hall 0107, "International Trade in Greater St. Louis," Ana R. Romero-Lizana of World Trade Center St. Louis
• March 28, 12:30-1:45 p.m. in Hickory-Hackberry Room (Morris University Center), "America's Evolving Threats: A New Look for the 21st Century," Lt. General Ervin Rokke
Some panel presentation highlights include:
• March 25, 3-4:15 p.m. in Peck Hall 3306, "Communication from an International Perspective," Oladayo Akande, Zuleikha Azimova and Syayid Sukandi (SIUE international students and faculty panel)
• March 28, 12:30-1:45 p.m. in Vadalabene Center 2007, "Peace Corps: Possibilities for Service," Joe Zucchini, Peace Corps field recruiter for St. Louis
• March 28, 12:30-1:45 p.m. in Peck Hall 2304, "Brand Kenya or a Small Act," Geoffrey Sankale, Kenyan Community of St. Louis
Some other highlights include:
• March 25-29 in Center Court, Skywalk and Fixins, "Lunch Hour Dishes from around the Globe
• March 25-29 in University Book Store, "International Book Display"
For more about the Global Awareness Week 2013 schedule of events, please call the SIUE Office of
International Programs at (618) 650-3785.
SIUE Art & Design Addition Dedication Ceremony Draws Large Crowd
Artwork adorns the walls of the new Art and Design Addition, which is joined to the SIUE Art and Design Building.
Video of the SIUE Art & Design Building Addition ribbon cutting.
More than 200 people turned out Thursday for a ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open the $9 million addition to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's Art and Design Building. SIUE Chancellor Julie Furst-Bowe, Interim Provost Ann Boyle and College of Arts and Sciences Dean Aldemaro Romero attended and presided over the event.
Artist Gonz Jove returned to his alma mater from Bolivia to display his work and speak to a large gathering of faculty, staff members and students. Pieces by the late Cuban artist Emilio Sanchez also were on display. SIUE houses the largest collection of the work of Sanchez in the world with 493 items.
SIUE Chancellor Julie Furst-Bowe speaks during the ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday for the Art and Design Building Addition.
The addition is joined to the existing building, which was constructed in 1991 and has been newly renovated. The new addition brings the studio arts together with art history, art education and art therapy under one roof.
"As future artists, counselors and teachers, we can express our creativity here," said Lynne Cote, second year Master of Arts student in the area of Art Therapy Counseling. "This is an exciting time to be a part of SIUE."
A new art gallery, additional office space, graduate student studio space and classrooms are part of the 29,000-square-foot project.
SIUE College of Arts and Sciences Dean Aldemaro Romero speaks during Thursday's celebration of the opening of the new Art and Design Building Addition.
Furst-Bowe talked about the significance of the Art and Design Building expansion and the renovation projects that have taken place since 2006, projects that will ultimately total more than $300 million.
"When all of the new buildings and the renovation of the Science Building Complex are complete, SIUE will have seven buildings that meet LEED rating standards," she said. "In sheer numbers, that means that we will be second in the state of Illinois, only to the University of Illinois, and second in the St. Louis region, only to Washington University.
"The Art and Design Building is definitely one of SIUE's newest Points of Pride. Facilities such as this enhance the growth and achievement of SIUE, saying to the world that the University is investing in the future of our region. SIUE is an important vehicle for the success of Southwestern Illinois."
Romero talked about how the "safe, modern and inspirational environment" would provide opportunities for faculty and students, as well as a chance for the public to appreciate artwork created by the internal campus community, as well as artists-some internationally renowned.
"The responses from the students have been tremendous," Romero said. "They now say that they
A $6.9 million renovation to the existing Art and Design Building included the expansion of studios and critique spaces; updates to safety features; the implementation of a new MacIntosh computer lab and more. The renovation involved improvements to 34,000-square-feet of space.
SIUE Percussion Ensembles in Concert Rescheduled for April 22
The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Percussion Ensembles in Concert has been rescheduled from Wednesday, March 27, to Monday, April 22. The concert will be held at 7:30 p.m. in the Dunham Hall Theater.
For more information, please call the SIUE Department of Music at (618) 650-3900. To purchase tickets, please call the SIUE Box Office at (618) 650-2774.
SIUE Trap and Skeet Club Hosts Gun Safety Awareness Event
The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Cougar Trap and Skeet Club will host a Gun Safety Awareness event on Monday, March 25. A variety of agencies will join the club in the Morris University Center from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. to promote gun safety and awareness.
The SIUE Police Department will inspect equipment brought by vendors to the event before they arrive at the MUC. SIUE police officers will escort all participants to and from the MUC and will be present throughout the event.
"In today's society, it is important for everyone to have some understanding of guns and safety precautions," said SIUE Police Chief Regina Hays. "People who don't own guns should be able to safely handle a weapon should they discover one in the course of their daily lives. It can be a life-saving skill."
Organizations scheduled to participate in the event include: United States Secret Service, State Attorney General's Office, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, SIUE Wildlife Conservation Club, Madison County Sheriff's Office and Ducks Unlimited.
Trap and Skeet Club members are able to store their guns and ammunition with the SIUE Police Department in accordance with university policy. The club holds bi-weekly shooting events at the private range at Town and Country Gun Club in Maryville, Ill., where the club also has access to storage.
For more information on SIUE club sports, visit siue.edu/crec/clubsports.
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville provides students with a high quality, affordable education that prepares them for successful careers and lives of purpose. Built on the foundation of a broad-based liberal education, and enhanced by hands-on research and real-world experiences, the academic preparation SIUE students receive equips them to thrive in the global marketplace and make our communities better places to live. Situated on 2,660 acres of beautiful woodland atop the bluffs overlooking the natural beauty of the Mississippi River's rich bottom land and only a short drive from downtown St. Louis, the SIUE campus is home to a diverse student body of more than 14,000.
University Housing Presents Family Week 2013
The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Housing Family Resource Center (FRC) presents its annual Family Week March 23-28. Family Week celebrates members of the SIUE family housing community and provides opportunities for families to spend quality time with one another.
"Family Week is a great opportunity for families to have new experiences together - from participating in a scavenger hunt to being part of a week-long tournament," said Clarissa Weltzin, director of the FRC. "Additionally, it is exciting to collaborate with our campus partners to provide unique experiences for our family residents. Many are extremely excited about the basketball clinic and working with members of the SIUE Cougar men's team."
Events include: a basketball workshop, scavenger hunt, magic show and family fun night at the Cougar Village playground.
In addition, families can participate in a Marble Works Tournament - a competition that encourages planning, teamwork, creativity and mechanical thinking. Teams participating in the Marble Works Tournament must plan and build a structure that will allow a marble to run a minimum of 20 seconds from the opening to the exit.
Family Week concludes with a family fun night on Thursday, March 28, featuring a cook-out, cotton candy, a bounce house/slide and face painting. Families will receive points for participating in various events throughout the week and have the opportunity to redeem those points for a chance to "pie" a staff member of their choice at the event.
For more information on the Family Resource Center and Family Week 2013, visit www.siue.edu/housing/livingoptions/family.shtml or contact Clarissa Weltzin at (618) 650-5367 or cweltzi@siue.edu.
Safe Zone Ally Training Set for Friday
Safe Zone at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is gearing up its regular ally training which is to be held Friday, March 22, from noon-2:30 p.m. Ally training is typically offered once in the fall semester and once in the spring semester and is open to all members of the SIUE community: undergraduate, graduate and professional students, faculty and staff.
The purpose of ally training is to provide participants with a core set of skills, a common language and concepts related to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender population. It also serves to identify allies to the LGBT community.
During the training, participants develop listening skills and learn techniques to help. Participants also discuss various methods about developing inclusive habits in the classroom, social situations and the office. Other information provided will address sexual orientation, gender identity, and campus and community resources.
This spring, more than 60 SIUE community members have signed up. One session is located in Founders Hall, Room 0308 and the other will be in the Vadalabene Center, Room 2306. Safe Zone will offer training for small groups upon request. A minimum of 25 persons are required to form a group.
During the fall semester, a record 75 registrants signed up for ally training. Due to the high level of interest, participants were divided into three different sessions with 25 people in each group.
For more information, please contact the Safe Zone co-chairs: Vicky Dean at (618) 650-5296 or vdean@siue.edu and Dayna Henry at (618) 650-3857 or dayhenr@siue.edu.
For more information on ally training, visit the SIUE Safe Zone website.
On-Campus Memorial Set for Tifani Wilder on Thursday, March 28
A memorial will be held for the late Tifani Wilder in Cougar Village on Thursday, March 28, at 5:30 p.m. At that time, a tree will be planted in her memory at the Cougar Village Playground.
The 24-year-old psychology major passed away in her residence Thursday, March 14.
Memorials can be made in her name to Quanada in Quincy, Ill., (217) 222-0069 or to the SIUE Housing Department to the attention of Sarah Kirkpatrick.
An online obituary is available.
Loretta Goebel Featured at Meridian Society Workshop
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's Meridian Society will host a women's philanthropy and leadership workshop Tuesday, April 9, from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Morris University Center. Loretta Goebel is the keynote speaker.
Goebel is a powerful and dynamic motivational speaker who will share her story of hope and determination. Her seemingly perfect life took a different turn when a common strep germ invaded her system, and she soon found herself at death's door. She survived, but not without dramatic consequences.
Goebel's strong spirit, determination and love of life allowed her to find a "new normal" and move on with her life. Her devastating, yet uplifting personal story inspires individuals, who have had a setback, to get back to the business of living.
The women's philanthropy and leadership workshop is an opportunity to hear inspirational messages from successful women in the metro area. Attendees will hear from a panel of four successful SIUE alumnae:
- Dr. Susan Schaberg, Schaberg Dermatology
- Tanya Patton, Principal, Edwardsville School District
- Regina Hays, SIUE Police Chief
- Dr. Briana Oller, Dentist, Simply Smiles Dental Care
The Meridian Society is a women's philanthropic organization located on SIUE's campus. The organization promotes women's leadership and invests in SIUE community- based projects throughout the metro area. Women affiliated with the university determine funding for various initiatives. Previous beneficiaries include the Early Childhood Center and Engineers without Borders.
The Meridian Society is always seeking new members who have an affinity for SIUE and the Metro East. To join or learn more about these philanthropic efforts, visit www.siue.edu/meridiansociety or contact Julie Babington at (618) 650-2378 or meridiansociety@siue.edu.
Southern Illinois University Edwardsvilleprovides students with a high quality, affordable education that prepares them for successful careers and lives of purpose. Built on the foundation of a broad-based liberal education, and enhanced by hands-on research and real-world experiences, the academic preparation SIUE students receive equips them to thrive in the global marketplace and make our communities better places to live. Situated on 2,660 acres of beautiful woodland atop the bluffs overlooking the natural beauty of the Mississippi River's rich bottom land and only a short drive from downtown St. Louis, the SIUE campus is home to a diverse student body of more than 14,000.
SIUE to Blow its Own Horns
Entitled Duos and Then Some, Dr. John Korak and the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Trumpet Ensemble will present a recital of music from the 17th Century through the current day at 4 p.m. Sunday, April 7 at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Edwardsville.
Korak, professor of trumpet at SIUE, will be joined on the performance by trumpeter Robert Souza of St. Louis and organist Henry Evans of Edwardsville. The recital is free and open to the public.
"Each year, I involve my students as part of the performance," said Korak. "I like to do so, because it helps them grow musically and professionally. This year, I am also featuring a dear friend and outstanding trumpeter, Robert Souza, who will be joining me in presenting this program. Henry Evans, the fabulous organist of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, also will be featured."
A highlight of the performance will be the SIUE Trumpet Ensemble comprised of six music majors: freshmen Nicolas Monte and Devon Gunn; sophomores Justin Duvall and Mattie Maurer; junior Khamani Hagood; and senior John Corradini; along with Michael Chiapetto, a senior majoring in bio medical sciences.
"Robert and I will perform several selections with the organ and trumpet ensemble, including the famous Flower Duet from the opera Lakmé by Leo Delibes."
Two of the musical selections will be performed on valve less baroque trumpets, while Scheidt's Galliard Battaglia will showcase the competitive nature of trumpeters in a virtuosic setting. The more contemporary works include "Darrenhorn Passage" and "Infinite Ascent" by Erik Morales.
The SIUE Music Department's spring 2013 season will continue with the following performances:
• April 12&13: Carmina Burana, 7 p.m. in Dunham Hall Theater
• April 13: Suzuki Ensembles, 2 p.m., LeClaire Christian Church, Edwardsville, free
• April 22: SIUE Percussion Ensembles, 7:30 p.m. in Dunham Hall Theater
• April 23: Wind Symphony & Concert Band, 7:30 p.m. in Dunham Hall Theater
• April 25: Jazz Band Concert Band, 8 p.m. in Dunham Hall Theater
• April 27: SIUE Steel Bands, 4 p.m., St. Matthew United Methodist Church, Belleville,
free
• April 28: Suzuki Spring Festival, 2 p.m., LeClaire Christian Church, Edwardsville, free
• April 28: SIUE Alumni Percussion Recital, 1 p.m. in Dunham Hall Room 1115, free
General admission is $12 unless stated otherwise. The cost is $9 for seniors and persons under the age of 18. SIUE students with a valid ID card will receive one complimentary ticket per performance, compliments of the SIUE Campus Activities Board. Dates and times are subject to change. For more information, please call the SIUE Music Department at (618) 650-3900 or for ticket information call (618) 650-2774.
Photo Information:
Dr. John Korak, SIUe professor of trumpet
The SIUE Trumpet Ensemble: (front left to right): Devon Gunn, Khamani Hagood and Mattie Maurer; (back row from left to right): Nicolas Monte, Justin Duvall, Mike Chiapetto and John Corradini
SIUE Alestle Wins Nine State Collegiate Journalism Awards
The Alestle, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's student newspaper, won nine awards during the Illinois College Press Association's annual college media conference in Chicago Feb. 22-23.
"We had an interesting mix of awards this year in many different types of categories," said Alestle Program Director Tammy Merrett-Murry. "It shows the all-around strength of the Alestle staff. "The 2012 staff did a good job of carrying on the Alestle's award-winning tradition."
The Alestle earned second and third place awards in the features, sports news, editorial writing, special supplement and advertising categories.
Sports Editor Roger Starkey won third place in features. Managing Editor John Layton achieved third place and an honorable mention in the sports news story category.
Online Editor Michelle Beard won a second place award in advertising, and former Alestle reporter Victoria Mizel won a third place award in the critical review category.
The staff won a third place award in editorial writing, as well as third place for its annual special supplement "Back to School Survival Guide."
Two former staffers were honored as David Pruitt received an honorable mention in the sports feature category. Online Editor Joseph Scoggins shared an honorable mention in the advertising/in-house promotion category with Beard.
Entries in the competition were judged for excellence by members of the Illinois Press Association and working journalists in Missouri and Ohio. The Alestle competes in the category for non-daily, student-run newspapers with campus populations of more than 4,000.
The Alestle competes regularly against student newspapers statewide: Bradley Scout at Bradley University , Chicago Maroon at the University of Illinois, Chicago Weekly at the University of Chicago, the Columbia Chronicle at Columbia College, DePaulia at DePaul University, Dominican Star at Dominican University, Chicago Flame at the University of Illinois-Chicago, the Journal at University of Illinois-Springfield, the Loyola Phoenix at Loyola University, the Independent at Northeastern Illinois University, The Torch at Roosevelt University and the Xavierite at St. Xavier University.
For more information about The Alestle, contact Tammy Merrett-Murry at 618-650-3597 or tmerret@siue.edu.
Volunteers Begin Spring Cleaning at The Gardens at SIUE
Spring cleaning began Thursday and Friday at The Gardens at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville with the help of approximately 45 University students.
"We have a full-time staff of two, so I can't overstate the impact of our volunteers," said Jane Drake, director of The Gardens at SIUE. "Volunteer hours really transform what we do." The Gardens at SIUE is a 35-acre public botanical garden on SIUE's campus. The park is recognized by the Missouri Botanical Garden as a Signature Garden. Dan Mueller is the park supervisor.
Spring cleaning at The Gardens began with cutting back the warm season grasses. Over the winter months, tall grass was left uncut for wild life habitation and aesthetics, according to Drake.
Volunteers began cutting the vegetation back by hand. The Gardens has more than 25,000 square feet of manicured garden beds that has overgrown foliage.
On Friday, students and volunteers planted an assortment of tulips along the eastern portion of the bicycle trail beside the newly installed lights. They also raked sweet gum balls and picked up sticks and debris to clear the lawn area in the park, Drake said.
"It's nice to contribute my time to better our SIUE campus," said Stephanie Lee, a sophomore majoring in Civil Engineering with 22 volunteer hours this year. "The Gardens is such a great place."
Lee also said she regularly comes to The Gardens to run and enjoy the park. Lee was grouped with Tim Hatch, a sophomore majoring in Mechanical Engineering; and Lawrence Leible, an Edwardsville resident who works at Nature's Scape in Collinsville.
Hatch, who has 18 volunteer hours, likes working outdoors. "I also like making a visible contribution to campus," he said. "By helping at The Gardens, you can see what you did to help out."
"The students not only transform The Gardens," Drake said, "but they also build community. To have these students helping like they are shows their ownership and pride with The Gardens."
The spring cleanup at The Gardens was sponsored by the SIUE Kimmel Leadership Center, according to Sarah Laux, assistant director for Civic Engagement and coordinator of Volunteer Projects.
The Gardens at SIUE comprises existing woodlands, a pond, grasslands and an arboretum on a lush and rolling 35-acre site. The Gardens is a living laboratory dedicated to supporting the educational and research mission of the University. Environmental sustainability, conservation and stewardship are cornerstones of The Gardens' vision, providing a unique opportunity to research, implement and demonstrate innovative green technologies. Gardens, facilities and amenities feature renewable, recycled and sustainably produced materials.
The mission of The Gardens at SIUE is to create a venue of beauty and distinction that will support the educational and research components of the University; that will engage the public in educational opportunity and campus life; and that will provide a haven for relaxation and enjoyment for all.
Photo Information:
Ashley Sanders, a senior majoring in speech communication, and Kevin Wade, a sophomore majoring in accounting, dig holes to plant tulips
Stephanie Lee, a sophomore majoring in civil engineering, plants tulips.
Volunteers rake up gum balls at The Gardens
SIUE's Lisa Lubsch is a "Light of Hope"
Dr. Lisa Lubsch
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Pharmacy faculty member Dr. Lisa Lubsch is among 11 individuals recognized by Cardinal Glennon Children's Medical Center as a "Light of Hope."
Glennon Ambassadors introduced the Light of Hope program in February 2013. Through the program, families are able to express gratitude for the exceptional care and compassion they received from their caregivers.
"I have so much gratitude for the opportunity to impact a child's health on a daily basis," said Lubsch, a clinical associate professor in the School of Pharmacy. "I am humbled by this family's appreciation."
"Dr. Lubsch is a truly caring pharmacist and one of the best at what she does," said Gireesh Gupchup, dean of the School of Pharmacy. "It is no wonder that the family of one of her patients nominated her for the 'Light of Hope' recognition."
"Lisa is an energetic person and an outstanding clinical pharmacist who is passionate about the patient care she provides at Cardinal Glennon," said Dr. Mark Ruscin, chair of the Pharmacy Practice Department in the School of Pharmacy. "The School of Pharmacy is extremely fortunate to have outstanding clinicians and educators like Lisa among our faculty."
Grateful families can support the patient services, programs and facilities of Cardinal Glennon with a financial gift. The gift can be made in honor of a caregiver who successfully revealed the healing presence of God, serving as a "Light of Hope" during their time in the hospital.
Among the first "Light of Hope" honorees, Lubsch joined the following:
- Saadeh Al-Jureidini, M.D
- Farouk Sadiq, M.D
- Ellen Wood, M.D
- Jay Costa, M.D
- Katie Dippel, Registered Nurse
- Mary Pat Spillane, Registered Nurse
- Patricia Farson, Registered Nurse
- Terry Cuellar, Registered Nurse
- Peggy Winter, Physical Therapist
- Terra Hollins, Cardiology technician
SIUE School of Pharmacy: Today's pharmacists improve patients' lives through the medication and education they provide. Dedicated to developing a community of caring pharmacists, the SIUE School of Pharmacy curriculum is nationally recognized as a model that offers students a unique combination of classroom education, research, community service and patient care. The School of Pharmacy's areas of excellence include the Center for Drug Discover and Design; chronic pain research and practice; and diabetes research and practice. As the only downstate Illinois pharmacy doctorate program, the SIUE School of Pharmacy is addressing the growing need for highly trained pharmacists in a rapidly growing field.
SIUE Mourns Passing of Tifani Wilder
The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville community today is mourning the death of undergraduate student Tifani Wilder, who passed away Thursday in her family housing residence in Cougar Village.
The 24-year-old Wilder was found by University Police and Housing staff after a welfare call was made. The death does not appear to be suspicious but is currently under investigation by the SIUE Police Department and the Madison County Coroner's Office.
Wilder was a junior psychology major in the SIUE School of Education. She has a five-year-old son.
Counseling services are available to students by calling 650-5666 or visiting the Counseling Health Services Office in the Student Success Center lower level adjacent to the Morris University Center. A counselor also will be available in the Cougar Village Commons Building.
Arrangements will be made available when details are finalized.
SIUE School of Engineering Shows Steady Enrollment Growth
The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Engineering has experienced 29 percent growth in total undergraduate enrollment during the past five years. The School also has seen a 54 percent increase in female undergraduates along with a 41 percent increase in minority undergraduates.
Dean Hasan Sevim has watched the School grow from 844 undergraduates in 2008 to its current enrollment of 1,088. He pointed to a combination of factors figuring into the increasing numbers.
"Ultimately, we have faculty dedicated to teaching excellence and mentoring," Sevim stated. "The School benefits from harmonious teamwork among the various university offices, such as enrollment management, marketing and communications, and the career development center.
"The word has spread that area companies consistently provide great internship and job opportunities for our students. Enthusiastic members of the student chapters and design teams actively recruit well-prepared students. Plus, we have a growing international reputation with exemplary cooperation from our overseas partners."
Meanwhile during that same time frame, the School's female enrollment has risen from 79 to 122. "Through the years, we have educated a significant number of women, approximately 800 since 1973," Sevim said. "They are now sharing their knowledge and wisdom in an effort to make a difference in the world.
"Currently, those 122 female undergraduate students represent only 11 percent of our student body. However, their passion for engineering has enabled them to become our finest advocates in ensuring the continued growth of women in this discipline."
The School's minority undergraduate enrollment rose from 61 in 2008 to 86 in 2012. "Without the viewpoint of a diverse population, we cannot anticipate the future needs of society," Sevim said. "As we continue to attract more highly qualified students, we anticipate continued growth in the diversity shown in our school."
With 260 undergraduate students, Mechanical Engineering is the most popular program. Electrical and Computer Engineering follows with 238 students, and Computer Science has 208 students.
Not only is the School's enrollment growing, but it is attracting increasingly well prepared students. The average ACT math scores of incoming freshmen have increased from 27.4 in 2009 to 28.0 in 2012.
The School has broken ground on a 32,000-square foot addition that will help accommodate its ever increasing enrollment. Sevim expects the student population to continue to climb. "While our ever increasing reputation in the region as a good, solid engineering school will be the main driver, we continue to strive to improve," Sevim said. "We are developing new international cooperative agreements and hoping to solidify that later this spring. We continue to support 2+2 programs with area community colleges which also deliver highly qualified students."
School of Engineering: The SIUE School of Engineering offers one of the most comprehensive and affordable engineering programs in the St. Louis region with eight undergraduate degrees, five master's degrees and a cooperative doctoral program, all housed in a state-of-the-art facility. Students learn from expert faculty, perform cutting-edge research, and participate in intercollegiate design competitions. Companies in the metropolitan St. Louis area provide students challenging internships and co-op opportunities which often turn into permanent employment. All undergraduate programs are accredited by their respective accreditation agencies.
Eddie the Cougar on KTVI
See SIUE's Eddie the Cougar along with the St. Louis Cardinals' Fredbird, the St. Louis Blues Louie and other area mascots on KTVI with morning host Tim Ezell.
SIUE RHA Executive Board Elections in March
The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Residence Housing Association (RHA) will host executive board elections this month. RHA is the voice and representation of all residential students at SIUE. All on-campus residents are invited to be part of RHA. Students can advocate for and address the concerns of residents and provide programming to enhance the living environment in university housing.
Residents interested in running for an executive board position are required to attend one information session. Three sessions will be held from 7-8 p.m. on Monday, March 18, at Woodland Hall; Tuesday, March 19, at the Cougar Village Commons; and Thursday, March 21, at Evergreen Hall. Candidates will learn about the RHA mission, what executive board positions entail, campaign regulations, and have the opportunity to speak with current executive board members.
"Being involved in RHA, and specifically the executive board, has been a great experience," said Mosannah Golden, senior speech communication major and RHA's national/Illinois communications coordinator. "I've had the opportunity to grow as a leader and help my peers grow as leaders. Being involved is contagious, and it truly has made me feel as if I'm a part of a family at SIUE."
For more information about RHA and the upcoming elections visit the RHA webpage, www.siue.edu/housing/rha or contact RHA Advisor Kyle Rice at (618) 650-4629.
SIUE Extends Nomination Deadline for CLI Alumni Leadership Award
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and the Construction Leadership Institute (CLI) Advisory Board will introduce the CLI Alumni Leadership Award this spring. The award will recognize an outstanding graduate of the CLI program and honor the individual's exceptional contributions to the building community through their leadership, character and hard work.
The initial award will be conferred as a part of the 10th anniversary celebration of the program, which will be held at SIUE Wednesday, May 8. Because of scheduling conflicts, the event was moved from the original March 1 date. As a result, the nomination deadline to be considered for the 2013 CLI Leadership Award is extended to Friday, April 5.
To be eligible for the annual award, a CLI graduate must have demonstrated exceptional professional accomplishments and community/public service. Members of the St. Louis area building community and the public are invited to nominate a graduate for the award by visiting the CLI website at siue.edu/cli.
The Construction Leadership Institute was created 10 years ago when building industry leaders approached SIUE to help create a program to accelerate the leadership development of high potential employees. It resulted in the annual program of nine weekly day-long sessions from mid-January through mid-March. The program is designed and continuously refined to develop and hone leadership and communication skills, and critical professional skills for emerging leaders in the building industry.
Organizations currently represented on the board include AGC-St. Louis, Alberici Constructors, Ameren Missouri, BJC Healthcare, Bond Architects, BRK Electrical Contractors LLC, Guarantee Electrical Co., Holland Construction Services, IMPACT Strategies, Johnson Controls, McCarthy Building Companies, Korte & Luitjohan Contractors, Murphy Company, Nooter Construction Co., Regional Union Construction Center, S.M. Wilson & Co., Southern Illinois Builders Association, and The Korte Construction Co.
About SIUE School of Business and the Department of Construction in the School of Engineering
U.S.News & World Report has ranked Southern Illinois University Edwardsville among the best Regional Universities Midwest for nine consecutive years and it is among the top 15 public universities in that category. The SIUE School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International, representing the highest standard of achievement for business schools worldwide. The Princeton Review lists the SIUE School of Business as one of the top 294 business schools in the U.S. and abroad. The SIUE Department of Construction is accredited by the American Council for Construction Education, a leading advocate for quality construction education.
SIUE Mechanical Engineering Students Awarded Scholarships from the St. Louis Chapter of ASHRAE
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) have selected two undergraduate Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Engineering students from the mechanical engineering program to receive St. Louis Chapter Scholarship Awards.
Josh Rasch, who serves as vice president of the SIUE chapter of ASHRAE, and Robert Bobbitt, who serves as secretary, were each awarded $1,500 scholarships at the St. Louis Chapter of ASHRAE meeting March 11 in St. Louis.
"I've been an ASHRAE member for just under a year and already am grateful for the positive impact it's had on my future," said Rasch.
ASHRAE has student chapters at academic institutions around the world. Students benefit from membership with opportunities to broaden their perspective towards professional life after graduation, helps them network with professionals, keeps them up to date with technology through regular meetings and monthly magazines, and makes them feel part of a global engineering society prior to graduation.
The SIUE student branch of ASHRAE was established in fall 2010 and has 11 active members who are also student members of the national ASHRAE organization. Dr. Serdar Celik, assistant professor of mechanical engineering, is the faculty advisor for the Chapter.
"I have been a member of ASHRAE for almost two years and have had many great opportunities to network and to gain knowledge of a field in engineering that many students may not experience," said Bobbitt.
ASHRAE, founded in 1894 and now with more than 50,000 members, is a professional organization dedicated to advancing the arts and sciences of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration, to serve humanity and promote a sustainable world.
SIUE on President's National Honor Roll for Community Service
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville has been named to the 2013 President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll for the fourth straight year. The Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) included SIUE among 690 institutions to receive the highest honor possible for its commitment to volunteering, service-learning and civic engagement.
"SIUE has a long history of community service and believes strongly in preparing our graduates to be active leaders and participants in an ever-changing world," SIUE Chancellor Julie Furst-Bowe said. "We are honored to receive this prestigious award and owe much of it to the students themselves. They are the energy driving our commitment, and they are in there rolling up their sleeves."
"Congratulations to SIUE, its faculty and students for its commitment to service, both in and out of the classroom," said Wendy Spencer, chief executive officer of CNCS. "Through its work, institutions of higher education are helping improve their local communities and create a new generation of leaders by challenging students to go beyond the traditional college experience and solve local challenges."
Inspired by the thousands of college students who traveled across the country to support relief efforts along the Gulf Coast after Hurricane Katrina, CNCS has administered the award since 2006 and manages the program in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, as well as the American Council on Education and Campus Compact.
The total number of SIUE students who engaged in community service of any kind was 5,637 during the 2011-12 academic year. Those students' number of all community service hours totaled 107,078. Among the volunteer projects were the Alliance of Students Against Poverty; Cougar Village "Get Green" volunteer project with The Gardens; Alternative Spring Break trip to New Orleans; and monthly projects organized through Kimmel such as the St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store, Willoughby Farm and Lutheran Senior Services.
More information about SIUE's community service efforts can be found at the Kimmel Leadership Center. More information on eligibility and the full list of Honor Roll awardees can be found at nationalservice.gov.
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville provides students with a high quality, affordable education that prepares them for successful careers and lives of purpose. Built on the foundation of a broad-based liberal education, and enhanced by hands-on research and real-world experiences, the academic preparation SIUE students receive equips them to thrive in the global marketplace and make our communities better places to live. Situated on 2,660 acres of beautiful woodland atop the bluffs overlooking the natural beauty of the Mississippi River's rich bottom land and only a short drive from downtown St. Louis, the SIUE campus is home to a diverse student body of more than 14,000.
The President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll honors the nation's leading higher education institutions and their students, faculty and staff for their commitment to bettering their communities through service. These are institutions that reflect the values of exemplary community service and achieve meaningful outcomes in their communities.
The Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) is a federal agency that engages more than five million Americans in service through Senior Corps, AmeriCorps, the Social Innovation Fund and other programs, and leads President Obama's national call to service initiative, United We Serve.
RecycleMania Competition Streams on at SIUE
Facts, figures and fun were a part of a recycling party on Wednesday in the Goshen Lounge at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.
"This University is involved in a RecycleMania competition," Kevin Adkins, Sustainability officer, told a crowd in the Goshen Lounge. "We need you all to keep up the good work by continuing to recycle."
The University community is recycling about 15 percent of its waste, while the national average is 30 percent, Adkins said.
Susanne Reed, marketing and recycling coordinator for Republic Services in Bridgeton, Mo., reminded the crowd about items that could and could not be recycled.
"I know you all are in a competition, and you want to be clear on what you can recycle," Reed said. She presented a video about how items are recycled at Republic Services and circulated literature on the rules of single stream recycling.
Kate Wolff of CJD E-Cycling in Godfrey, Ill., also referenced the importance of recycling electronics. For more information about CJD E-Cycling or to learn how to dispose of electronics, visit http://www.cjdecycling.com/or call (618) 433-9200.
RecycleMania ends March 30. Colleges and universities across North America report the amount of recycling and trash collected each week, for eight weeks, according to Amy Gardiner, treasurer of SIUE's Student Organization for Sustainability. Schools are ranked according to who recycles the most based on a per-capita basis.
Photo Information: Kevin Adkins, SIUE sustainability officer; Susanne Reed, marketing and recycling coordinator for Republic Services, with Kevin Adkins; and Kate Wolff, CJD E-Cycling in Godfrey.
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville provides students with a high quality, affordable education that prepares them for successful careers and lives of purpose. Built on the foundation of a broad-based liberal education, and enhanced by hands-on research and real-world experiences, the academic preparation SIUE students receive equips them to thrive in the global marketplace and make our communities better places to live. Situated on 2,660 acres of beautiful woodland atop the bluffs overlooking the natural beauty of the Mississippi River's rich bottom land and only a short drive from downtown St. Louis, the SIUE campus is home to a diverse student body of more than 14,000.
Dialoguing About Sustainable Solutions at SIUE
The topics of food, the environment and economics were discussed from a sustainable point of view on Wednesday at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.
Three SIUE professors participated in Sustainability Chats at the Morris University Center's Maple/Dogwood Room.
Professors pictured and their topics include: Dr. Jessica DeSpain, assistant professor of English, Language & Literature, discussed the "Omnivores' Dilemma;" Dr. Andrew Theising, associate professor of Political Science, presented the benefits of urban versus suburban development; and Dr. Linda Markowitz, professor of Sociology, talked about the effects of "Corporations and Over Consumption."
The Student Organization for Sustainability sponsored the Chats.
SIUE Alum Danielle Belton Appears on PBS News Hour
SIUE alum Danielle Belton appeared on Tuesday (3/12) night's PBS News Hour. In a segment hosted by Judy Woodruff, Belton discussed Facebook executive Sheryl Sandberg's book "Lean In," along with Katha Pollitt of "The Nation" and Business Talent Group CEO Jody Greenstone. In her book, Sandberg urges women to not shy away from ambition and leadership. Watch the video.
SIUE Center for Spirituality and Sustainability Honors Pohlman and Keating
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Center for Spirituality and Sustainability will honor two dedicated and accomplished people during its annual Awards Dinner at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 23.
The dinner program will be held in the Leclaire Room on the N.O. Nelson Campus of Lewis and Clark Community College. SIUE Chancellor Julie Furst-Bowe will give the welcome and provide an update on SIUE's efforts regarding sustainability.
This year's Spirituality Leadership recipient is Sister Maxine Pohlman, School Sisters of Notre Dame (SSND) and director of the La Vista Ecological Learning Center in Godfrey. The Sustainability Leadership recipient is botanist Dr. Richard Keating, SIUE emeritus professor of Biological Sciences, who served the university for 26 years.
Pohlman has been a member of the SSND, an international Roman Catholic congregation of women, since 1967. She has a master's in religious education from Boston College and spent 28 years in religious education at elementary and secondary schools in Illinois, Iowa and Missouri.
In 2005, after receiving a certificate in "Ecology and the Human Spirit" from St. Thomas University, Pohlman joined the staff at La Vista Ecological Learning Center, a ministry of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate. She currently serves as director of the Center where she leads ecological workshops, retreats and discussion groups. She works in community ecological education through SSND and is a member of St. Louis's Inter-Community Ecological Council and its Inter-School Ecological Council.
Keating has been a research associate at Missouri Botanical Garden since 1969. In his courses, he emphasized the common evolutionary history of life, the vulnerability of species due to mankind's activities, the services provided by healthy ecosystems, and mankind's responsibility to respect and preserve the diversity of life. He has promoted education about the environment and is widely published on environmental issues.
Keating is presently vice president of the James and Aune Nelson Foundation, which supports environmental programs in southwestern Illinois. He was a founding director and leader for the Nature Preserve Foundation, which operates Edwardsville's Watershed Nature Center; a founding director and officer for The Nature Institute, which preserves and restores natural land in southwestern Illinois; co-founder and chairman of the Piasa Palisades Local Sierra Club Chapter; and commissioner in the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission.
The Center has presented annual Spirituality and Sustainability Leadership awards since 2009, with the first Sustainability Leadership award going posthumously to R. Buckminster Fuller, designer of the Center's geodesic dome.
For more information about the awards dinner or to make a reservation, call (618) 650-3246 or email jjacobso@siue.edu. Tickets are $50 per person and are partially tax deductible. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. A reservation form is also available on the Center's new website www.fullerdome.org.
SIUE Engineering Residential Summer Camps Set for June
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville will host two week-long Engineering Summer Camps in June. The residential camps will run from June 9-14 and 16-21 in the School of Engineering.
The camps annually introduce approximately 50 students to various engineering disciplines, computer science and construction management. Current high school freshmen, sophomores and juniors experience fun activities that are challenging and thought-provoking.
"The camps have been successful over the years because of the tremendous enthusiasm shared by our faculty and our campers," said Chris Gordon, interim associate dean of the School of Engineering. "The exceptional hands-on activities illustrate the rewarding opportunities available to graduates of each of our programs."
Students have the opportunity to participate in various hands-on laboratory experiments, design contests and go on field trips. Students also get a flavor of residential college life that will build lasting friendships with their peers.
The $350 fee includes accommodations, food, round-trip transportation for field trips, as well as all necessary materials and supplies. A limited number of scholarships are available for students who can demonstrate need.
Accommodations will be provided in SIUE residence halls. Participants will be assigned to double occupancy rooms. Each participant will be issued a university debit card to use for meals and snacks at the Morris University Center.
Students will be supervised during all academic and recreational activities, including the overnight residence hall stay. A family reception will be hosted for all participants on the last day of each session. Family and friends are invited.
Additional information is provided at this link.
The application form is available for download and print at this link.
Completed application forms should be emailed to engineering@siue.edu. The application deadline is Friday, May 10.
SIUE Showcases Tennessee Williams' Play Suddenly Last Summer
Often referred to as Tennessee Williams' most stark and poetic work, Suddenly Last Summer, opens Wednesday, March 13 in Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's Metcalf Theater. The great American playwright's work play runs through Sunday, March 24, and is directed by Kathryn Bentley, associate professor in SIUE's Theater and Dance.
When asked why she tackled such a complex play, Bentley replied, "I read this play while in grad school, and I found it intriguing. The characters are complex and layered as with all of Tennessee Williams' characters. The language is rich and poetic. This play offers a tremendous challenge to my students.
"The characters are telling a story - several stories - about a character never seen on stage. This play deals with appearances and the need to project a certain image to the world no matter what," Bentley added. "The truth is secondary to this image. Reality becomes blurred based on the need to hold on to an image."
Tennessee Williams was born Thomas Lanier "Tennessee" Williams III on March 26, 1911. He was an American writer who is known primarily as an American playwright, but also wrote short stories, novels, poetry, essays, screenplays and a volume of memoirs. His professional career lasted from the mid-1930s until his death. Many of his plays are regarded as classics of the American stage.
Characters in his plays are often seen as representations of his family members. Characters such as Tom Wingfield in The Glass Menagerie and Sebastian in Suddenly Last Summer were thought to represent Williams himself. He received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama for A Streetcar Named Desire in 1948 and for Cat on a Hot Tin Roof in 1955. These two plays were later filmed, with great success, by noted directors, Elia Kazan (Streetcar), with whom Williams developed a very close artistic relationship, and Richard Brooks (Cat). Both plays included references to areas of Williams' life such as homosexuality, mental instability and alcoholism. Williams passed away on February 25, 1983.
Other work for the production includes: guest artist Justin Barisonek, scenic design; Kaitlyn Wiese, costume design; Valerie Goldston, lighting design; Jesse Graf, sound design; Katherine Slovinski, props design; and Megan O'Neill, stage management.
Suddenly Last Summer runs at 7:30 p.m. Wed.-Sat., March 13-16; 2 p.m. Sun., March 17. Additional performances are slated for 7:30 p.m. Fri. and Sat., March 22 and 23, and at 2 p.m. Sun., March 24 at 7:30 p.m. All performances will be in the Metcalf Theater. For directions to campus, visit www.siue.edu/maps/
Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors, non-SIUE students, and children 17 and younger. SIUE students, with a valid I.D., get in free. Discounted tickets are available for groups of ten or more. All seats are general admission. This play is recommended for ages 14 and up. For tickets or more information, call the Fine Arts box office at (618) 650-2774 or toll free at (888) 328-5168, extension 2774.
SIUE's Department of Theater and Dance presents four plays and one dance concert during its October through April season. All productions are open to the community at large. The Department of Theater and Dance is part of the College of Arts and Sciences. More information is available at www.siue.edu/artsandsciences/theater or to send an email to theater- tickets@siue.edu.
Photo Information: Pictured are Andrew Pearson (left) and Ashley Bland.
SIUE Offers Sustainable Solutions during "Chats"
The sustainability of urban neighborhoods versus suburban areas is one topic slated for discussion during Sustainability Chats from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday, March 13 at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.
"Urban populations are more sustainable than low density suburban populations," said Dr. Andrew J. Theising, associate professor, Political Science and director, Institute of Urban Research (IUR). Theising is one of three guest speakers on the program at the Sustainability Chats, "Increase the Power of Your Degree," in the Morris University Center's Maple/Dogwood Room.
The schedule for the Sustainability Chats includes: 11 a.m.-noon, Dr. Jessica DeSpain, assistant professor, SIUE English Language and Literature, Year of The Book Omnivores' Dilemma; noon-1 p.m., Theising, who also is the director of SIUE East St. Louis Center, Urban Development; and 1-2 p.m. Dr. Linda Markowitz, professor, Sociology, Corporations and Over Consumption.
Theising gave a brief explanation for his assessment of urban areas relating to sustainability. Cities that have taller buildings have more efficient usage per square foot. And it's possible to live in an urban area and not own a car, he said.
Another example Theising gave for consideration was 100 families living in one tall building. There would be fewer electrical wires, sewer lines, street lights and less paved sidewalks there, he said, than placing those same 100 families in a subdivision. Spreading those families out would require much more infrastructure.
"Yet, the urban and suburban customer pay the same rate for sewer, electricity and water, even though the cost to deliver them are very different," Theising said. "Suburbia comes at a cost."
Markowitz would agree that when it comes to sustainability, the price and costs are not always equal.
"We here in the United States make up 4 percent of the global population, yet we consume 25 percent of the world's resources," Markowitz said. "Not only do we consume more than our share, we also create more than our share of pollution."
The sociology professor noted Madison County's environmental report card. According to Markowitz, the county has flunked its environmental report card for the past few years and is second only to Los Angeles County for rates of cancer caused by pollution. Markowitz will talk further about overconsumption in the U.S. and the structural causes that promote it.
"Sustainability has become an important concern to every business," said Wolf Mark Veverka, vice president of SIUE's Student Organization for Sustainability (SOS). "Not only is it the right thing to do, but it improves the bottom line, improves a company's competitiveness, and helps address the increasing demand for limited resources companies need to do business."
SOS is sponsoring the Chats, which are designed to help students "learn why sustainability is an important component of any degree in an engaging and interactive atmosphere." For more information, visit SOS online, friend them on Facebook and follow them on twitter @ sossiue. Details about SIUE's sustainable options and programs can be found on the sustainability homepage.
SIUE STEM Center Needs Volunteers for Annual Research Challenge
The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Center for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Research, Education and Outreach needs volunteers to assist with the upcoming Research Challenge.
The Research Challenge will bring about 250 entrants to campus Saturday, March 23. Volunteers are needed to judge the projects of area students from grades 5-12, as well as assist with the execution of the event itself.
"Volunteers are a vital part of what makes our events successful," said Sean Herberts, STEM outreach coordinator. "This is especially important for the annual Research Challenge. Providing students with the opportunity to share their discoveries with an adult is the most meaningful part of the event. Without judges, the competition wouldn't be capable of such a tremendous impact."
Although advance registration is not required to participate as a judge or a volunteer, Herberts said it would help the STEM Center determine volunteer assignments prior to the event. Volunteer judges are asked to report to the MUC Conference Center at 8:30 a.m. the day of the event to take part in a short orientation. Following the orientation, they will review the projects on display. After the first round of judging takes place, which Herberts said will be shortly after noon, the ballroom is opened to the community. At that time, there will be a second round of judging for specialty awards including selection of the students being sent to the state and international science fairs.
The awards ceremony will be held following the judging at about 3 p.m. in the Goshen Lounge. Everyone is welcome.
For more information, or to register in advance as a volunteer, contact Herberts through the STEM Center, (618) 650-3065, or visit stemideas.org.
Marjorie Vandegrift, 1925-2013; Was SIUE Chancellor's Mother
Marjorie Vandegrift, 87, originally from Jersey City, New Jersey, died Feb. 28 in Prescott Valley, Arizona. She was the mother of SIUE Chancellor Emeritus Vaughn Vandegrift.
Memorials can be made to The Good Samaritan Society, 3380 N. Windsong Drive, Prescott Valley, Arizona, or to the local hospice of your choice.
Visitation information and a full obituary are available at legacy.com.
Annual SIUE Business Pitch Competition Helps Students Plans for Future
The Collegiate Entrepreneurs' Organization (CEO) at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville will host its third annual "TheOther40" pitch competition on campus Monday, April 8.
During the event, top students will present their business plans with the hope of winning up to $5,000 toward starting their own businesses. A total of $10,000 in prize money and donated professional legal, accounting, and other services are available to the top three finalists. Each year, CEO asks students from all disciplines at the University to submit a one- to two-page executive summary for review. The best summaries are chosen to move to the next phase of the competition, which involves the submission of a condensed business plan.
The top eight business plans are chosen as finalists, and entrepreneurs are invited to give an "elevator pitch" in less than three minutes. Immediately following the pitch, a panel of judges will be given five minutes to ask questions of the entrepreneurs. The top three are awarded cash prizes and support to help make their business plans a reality.
The pitch competition will be held in the SIUE Illinois/Mississippi Room at 3 p.m. April 8. Attendance by students, business professionals and the general public is encouraged. For more details, visit http://siueceo.wix.com/theother40competition .
CEO is a student-founded and run organization at SIUE organized with the purpose of facilitating student entrepreneurship through innovative thinking and creative collaboration. This year's competition marks the third annual TheOther40 Entrepreneurship Competition, with six previous winners and six successful student start-ups.
Questions can be emailed to info@theother40.org.
School of Business: SIUE's School of Business and the accountancy programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International, representing the highest standard of achievement for business schools worldwide. The Princeton Review consistently lists SIUE as one of the top 296 business schools in the U.S. for the seventh consecutive year. Undergraduate and graduate degrees are offered in accounting, computer management and information systems, economics, finance, management and marketing. More than 20,000 alumni have earned degrees from the SIUE School of Business. For more information about the School of Business, visit www.siue.edu/business.
STEM Center Representatives Attended Invitation-Only White House Roundtable
Sharon Locke, executive director of the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Center for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Research, Education and Outreach, and Elisabeth Knierim, a STEM Center staff member, took part in a White House roundtable discussion today in Mt. Vernon with USDA Deputy Under Secretary Ann Bartuska.
The invitation-only event was presented by the White House Office of Public Engagement, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois. The topic was "Women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture and Mathematics."
SIUE Director of The Gardens Column Featured in Local Magazine
A column by Jane Drake, the director of The Gardens at SIUE, appeared in the current issue of The Telegraph's Homestyle Magazine.
To check out Drake's contribution to the publication, you can visit the Winter 2013 issue.
SIUE School of Pharmacy Honors Barry Wilson for Community Work
Being an advocate for the poor, positively impacting the community and equipping students with invaluable experience are the reasons that veteran pharmacist Barry Wilson received Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Pharmacy's Service to Pharmacy Award.
Wilson, an affiliate clinical faculty member with the SIUE School of Pharmacy, has spent his career helping to provide medicine to the homeless, indigent and uninsured.
"I grew up poor, and I know what it means to go without," Wilson said in an article titled Partner Spotlight: Family Care Health Centers from the Direct Relief International website. "I try not to put our patients in the position where they have to decide between food, rent or medicine."
Wilson's interest has always been that of providing quality healthcare and service to those who seemingly need it the most, said Dr. Gireesh Gupchup, dean of the SIUE School of Pharmacy.
"Barry Wilson has practiced pharmacy for 50 years with a focus of serving medically underserved patients," Gupchup said. "His contributions to the profession, his patients and training future pharmacists are admirable. It is truly an honor to present the SIUE School of Pharmacy Service to Pharmacy Award to Mr. Wilson."
The Service to Pharmacy Award is presented only when merited and the criteria, in part, states: "The individual selected must be of high moral and ethical character and display good citizenship. The achievements of the candidate for recognition must have benefited the community in general, the profession of pharmacy and the SIUE School of Pharmacy."
Professor William Wuller, director of Experiential Pharmacy at SIUE School of Pharmacy and clinical associate professor of Pharmacy Practice, nominated Wilson for the award.
"Since 2002, Barry has been chief pharmacy officer of Family Health Care Centers in St. Louis," wrote Wuller in his nomination letter. "This is not a 'glamour' position in a prestigious mecca of teaching. Family Health Care is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHA) that annually serves more than 19,000 homeless, uninsured and indigent patients."
Since Wilson has worked for a FQHA, he has helped provide more than $7 million in free medications through Patience Assistance Programs for his Center's patients. For more information, visit Family Care Health Centers (FCHC) or Federal Qualified Health Center.
Wilson is a good fit for FCHC, Wuller said, because his life has mirrored the mission of his workplace. The FCHC's mission is "to provide affordable and accessible comprehensive primary care services to anyone, with emphasis on the medically underserved, and to train a primary workforce in order to promote the general health of the service area."
Other positions and community work in which Wilson participates include: adjunct clinical instructor for St. Louis College of Pharmacy; active member of the National Health Care for the Homeless Council; the National Association of Community Health Centers; Volunteers in Healthcare; the Missouri Bar Association; and the Association of Clinicians for the Underserved.
Wilson added that he is not content with helping provide quality healthcare for the indigent. He wants to persuade others to do so as well.
"Helping to shape the senior pharmacy students, who rotate through our pharmacy, is both a source of pleasure and motivation for me to continue practicing pharmacy," said Wilson in the Direct Relief article. "I let them know that when they work to support underserved patients they can look at themselves in the mirror at the end of the day and say: 'I did well today.' Sometimes if I'm lucky, I make a convert."
Cutline Information: Pictured are Dr. Gireesh Gupchup, dean of the SIUE School of Pharmacy, and Barry Wilson, an affiliate clinical faculty member with the SIUE School of Pharmacy
SIUE TPS Program Teaches with U.S. Veterans Stories
Stories about three local veterans are now available online as a result of the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's Teaching with Primary Sources Program (SIUE TPS). The SIUE TPS focused on the incorporation of veteran stories in the classroom and how to produce community veteran stories with students.
The SIUE TPS hosted the Learning with Veteran Stories Institute during July 2012, and the effort resulted in three local veteran stories from World War II, Vietnam, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. The stories can be viewed online at the Illinois Veterans Classroom Website and submitted to the Library of Congress Veterans History Project for future researchers to access.
Amy Wilkinson, director of SIUE TPS, witnessed how studying and collecting veteran stories can motivate students to learn about the past and connect with their community. "In partnering with the Illinois WWII Veteran Classroom Project, we saw students highly invested in learning the details of WWII," Wilkinson said. "They developed an appreciation and compassion for all veterans. In turn, the veterans were thankful for the opportunity to share their story with the youth of today. It's a program where everyone benefits."
Guest presenters during the summer session included Shawn Healy, resident scholar and director of professional development at the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, and Jeff Manuel from the SIUE Historical Studies Department. The program included analyzing narratives from the Library of Congress' digital collections and Veterans History Project.
The SIUE TPS program is a federally funded grant program housed in the School of Education and awarded by the Library of Congress. The SIUE program is one of 29 national educational consortiums nationally.
The program began in 2002 by offering professional development to K-12 educators in 16 surrounding counties. In its 11th year, the SIUE TPS program has worked with more than 790 educators by offering professional development on the use of primary sources to strengthen information and media literacy, citizenship and diversity.
There is a plan to follow up and collect a veteran story with students in the 2012-2013 school year. Learning with Veteran Stories Institute will be offered again during summer 2013.
School of Education: The SIUE School of Education prepares students in a wide range of fields including community health education, exercise science, instructional technology, psychology, speech-language pathology and audiology, administration and teaching. Faculty members engage in leading-edge research, which enhances teaching and enriches the educational experience. The School supports the community through on-campus clinics, outreach to children and families, and a focused commitment to enhancing individual lives across the region.
Vandy's David Wood Is Keynote Speaker at Annual Fritz Marti Lecture
Vanderbilt University Professor David Wood will lecture on, "Thinking out of the Box," at 5 p.m. Thursday, March 21 in the Morris University Center Mississippi-Illinois room on the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville campus. A reception will precede the event at 4:30 p.m.
The annual event, known as the Fritz Marti Lecture, was named for the late Dr. Marti, an SIUE professor emeritus in philosophical studies. The Swiss-born educator joined the SIUE faculty in 1965 at the age of 71 and taught at various institutions across the United States.
Wood's areas of interest include "the possibilities of reading and thinking opened up by contemporary continental philosophy and by 19th century German thoughts." His current projects include "reworking/displacing Heidegger's treatment of time within fundamental ontology; developing a nonprescriptive posthumanistic approach to ethics; and providing an account of truth that does justice both to its normative, 'existential' and metaphysical dimensions."
Marti grew up in Switzerland and was employed as an iron worker before joining the Swiss Army during World War I. Following his service, he studied mechanical engineering and philosophy at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology. He immigrated to the U.S. in 1922 and began his storied teaching career.
He served as president of the Southern Society for Philosophy and Psychology, and the Southern Society for Philosophy of Religion. Marti also ran a private preparatory school in Ohio and taught art history.
More information about Marti is available through the Oregon State University website.
SIUE Group Enjoys Dialogue with U.S. China Policy Expert
Dr. Adam Lowther presents "The Future of China-U.S. Relations: Panda Hugging or Panda Slugging," during an event hosted last week by the SIUE Center for International Programs and the Department of Political Science.
Nearly 80 people turned out Thursday, packing the Hickory-Hackberry Room at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, to hear Dr. Adam Lowther discuss U.S. - China relations and policy. A research professor at the Air Force Research Institute at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama, Lowther is a renowned commentator on the topic.
Lowther hosted "The Future of China-U.S. Relations: Panda Hugging or Panda Slugging," which was held in the Morris University Center, engaged faculty, staff and students. He has authored, edited or contributed to numerous peer-reviewed and public journal articles, and several books, including "Americans and Asymmetric Warfare: Lebanon, Somalia and Afghanistan," and most recently, "The Asia Pacific Century: Challenges and Opportunities." He also has penned numerous commentaries and editorials.
"What is going on in China right now is phenomenal," Lowther said, noting large-scale development projects in major cities. The construction of sky scrapers to accommodate urban living and the emphasis placed on educational institutions to push technology learning are impressive.
During a recent trip to a fast-developing city in China outside Hong Kong, Lowther said, "There were these large cranes everywhere. I have never seen that in any U.S. city." He noted upon counting new buildings and those under construction that "new housing would accommodate up to 70,000 people."
Specializing in nuclear policy and airpower issues, Lowther has an active interest in China's role in the world, and impact upon American defense and foreign policy. He discussed how the Chinese view copying software, DVDs, drones and other technology as an art, whereas the U.S. sees it as stealing. This issue alone has caused tension between the two countries.
He commented on the country's steady rise to becoming a global leader, as well as its position as a leader in cyberspace. Mobilizing a "Great Firewall of China," it is better suited to win at "informationized warfare," because it is inexpensive and advantageous to train individuals in technology fields.
Lowther further explained that the U.S. is viewed by China as launching cyber warfare by introducing its internet freedom agenda under former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. China sees justification for its Cyber Attacks.
During the discussion, Lowther raised the following question: "How do we make the future into what we want it to be?"
He referenced that the Chinese and Western cultures view life and society much differently. While the U.S. places a large deal of emphasis on protecting the rights of individuals, the Chinese people collectively focus on societal preservation and promoting the greater good. He noted that while the U.S. allows people to patent their inventions and intellectual property, the Chinese view the property as belonging to the public at large. What the U.S. sees as stealing, the Chinese categorize as an art.
Paying special attention to diplomatic, informational, military and economic circumstances that influence the U.S.-Chinese relationship, Lowther said learning to appreciate and respect each other's cultures will go far in promoting a positive, equitable exchange between the two countries.
The biggest challenges facing the Chinese, he said, are maintaining high economic growth rates, balancing the needs for employment, care for the elderly and the transition to a market economy for rural China. The Chinese military's primary focus is figuring out how to employ the use of advanced technology that it acquires.
He noted the greatest issues facing the U.S. are whether it can retain its global status as a great power with a debt-to-gross domestic product (GDP) ratio exceeding 100 percent, if a redistribution of wealth via a large social welfare system will affect the nation's global position as a leader, and if a rise in the welfare state nationally will negatively influence the nation's status as a great power.
Lowther holds bachelor's and master's degrees in international relations from Arizona State University, and a Ph.D. from the University of Alabama. He began his career in the U.S. Navy. The event was hosted by the SIUE Center for International Programs and the Department of Political Science.
SIUE Society of Women Engineers Featured in Belleville News-Democrat
The SIUE Society of Women Engineers was featured in the Belleville News-Democra t . SWE engineering students hosted "Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day" during the weekend at the School of Engineering. Approximately 100 middle school age girls attended.