UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

Tuesday November 24, 2009 Volume 56 Number 13 www.upenn.edu/almanac

Penn Medicine: $45 Million Penn GSE and 15 APEC Member Economies: NIH-Supported Trial to Study International Study in Science and Math Teacher Preparation Testosterone Therapy in Older Men The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education-International is teaming up with Penn Medicine will lead a new national $45 15 other members of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation to conduct an international study on million clinical trial to test whether testoster- secondary-school teacher preparation, “Identifying Unique and Promising Practices in Math and one therapy can favorably affect certain condi- Science Teacher Education in APEC Economies.” tions affecting older men. Low serum testoster- Led by scholars from around the globe, this four-year research project will illustrate how teach- one may contribute to a number of problems af- er education and preparation influence student outcomes, fill critical gaps in education research and fecting older men, including decreased ability assess how American teachers can learn from international counterparts. to walk, loss of muscle mass and strength, de- This study will compare teacher education in the US, Australia, Chile, Japan, New Zealand, creased vitality, decreased sexual function, im- Peru, Russia, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. paired cognition, cardiovascular disease and ane- “We know that teacher preparation here puts a great deal of emphasis on methodology and psy- mia. While testosterone normally decreases with chology and not so much on subject matter. The opposite is true in the East,” Dr. Andrew Porter, age, in some men, low levels of testosterone may Penn GSE dean, said. “In our study, we want to identify the right balance in teacher training and find contribute to these debilitating conditions. a curriculum that maximizes teacher effectiveness and improves student performance.” Led by the University of Pennsylvania School The US research team is comprised of scholars from Penn GSE, Harvard University’s Gradu- of Medicine and conducted at 12 sites across the ate School of Education, Columbia University’s Teachers College and the Michigan State Univer- nation, the Testosterone Trial will involve 800 sity College of Education. men age 65 and older with low testosterone levels. The National Institute on Aging (NIA), part of the National Institutes of Health, is providing support Penn Engineering to Compete in MAGIC 2010 in Australia for this large-scale clinical trial to evaluate the ef- fect of testosterone therapy on older men. Students in the Universi- The Testosterone Trial will include five separate ty of Pennsylvania School of studies. At each of the 12 sites, men 65 and older Engineering and Applied Sci- with low serum testosterone and at least one of the ence have been chosen to com- following conditions—anemia, decreased physical pete in the Multi-Autonomous function, low vitality, impaired cognition or reduced Ground Robotics Internation- sexual function—will be randomly assigned to par- al Challenge (MAGIC) 2010 ticipate in a treatment group or a control group. competition. The Penn team, Treatment groups will be given a testosterone gel led by Dr. Daniel Lee, the Evan that is applied to the torso, abdomen, or upper arms; C Thompson Endowed Term control groups will receive a placebo gel. Serum Professor for Excellence in testosterone will be measured monthly for the first Teaching, will travel to a re- three months and quarterly thereafter up to one year. mote location in Australia and Participants will be tested on a wide range of mea- map a half-kilometer-square sures to evaluate physical function, vitality, cogni- space of uncharted territory us- tion, cardiovascular disease, and sexual function. ing only team-built robots. Penn’s School of Medicine is the lead insti- “The materials we use in- tution for the trial and will serve as coordinating clude wheels from remote-control vehicles and said. “MAGIC 2010 will lead to groundbreak- center. Dr. Peter J. Snyder, professor of medicine sensors from cameras,” Dr. Lee said. “In order ing robotics research in critical new arenas that in the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and to maintain our tight budget, smart software is will address operational challenges, increase en- Metabolism at Penn, is the principal investigator more important than expensive parts.” The ve- ergy security and save soldiers’ lives.” and will oversee trial activities. “This is an un- hicles have a 40-kilogram weight limit, and, Dr. MAGIC 2010 will be held November 8- precedented opportunity for older men to learn Lee said, the team will build multiple models. 13, 2010, in the Australian wilderness. First-, more about themselves and at the same time help Penn is one of 10 university/industry teams second- and third-place teams will take home find out if testosterone will improve some of the to receive $50,000 in seed money to pursue $750,000, $250,000 and $100,000 respectively. afflictions of old age,” said Dr. Snyder. their technology submissions. In addition to Between now and next June, MAGIC judges A 2004 report by the Institute of Medicine, “Tes- Penn, and four other teams from the US, engi- will visit the semi-finalists to cut the field down tosterone and Aging: Clinical Research Directions,” neers from Australia, Canada, Japan and Tur- to five finalists; each of which will receive an noted several important unanswered questions about key will also compete in MAGIC 2010. additional $50,000 to complete their entries. the effects of testosterone therapy. Researchers aim Dr. Lee, part of Penn’s General Robot- to answer these questions by testing the effective- ics, Automation, Sensing and Perception Lab, IN THIS ISSUE ness of testosterone therapy in older men with low (GRASP) an interdepartmental engineering 2 Senate: SEC Actions; Multidisciplinary Pilot Grants; testosterone levels and one of the following condi- initiative, was previously involved in the Ur- Deaths: Dr. Glick, Dr. Hymes, Dr. Katz, Dr. Tureck; tions: impaired walking, low vitality, sexual or cog- Memorials: Dr. Raffensperger, Mr. Stefaniuk ban Challenge of the Defense Advanced Re- 4 Honors & Other Things nitive dysfunction. A key consideration is the use of search Projects Agency (Almanac September 5 Gifts of Involvement testosterone as a therapy for certain conditions, rath- 25, 2007). 6 Books: Fabulous Finds for Those Fond of Fact or er than as a preventive measure. The event will be hosted by the US Army Fiction “This study is important because testosterone Tank Automotive Research, Development and 8 Holiday Happenings at Penn 9 Human Resources: Upcoming Programs; products have been marketed for many years as Engineering Center (TARDEC) and the Aus- Special Winter Vacation; Bon Appéit at Penn treatments for a variety of conditions,” said Dr. tralian Department of Defence’s (ADOD) De- 10 Freshman’s Film Finalist in Animation Festival; Evan C. Hadley, director of NIA’s Division of fence Science and Technology Organisation. Penn Abroad Photos; Penn’s Way Winners Geriatrics and Clinical Gerontology, which is “We are excited to move on to the next step 11 Almanac Moving; Ben’s House: Designing History the primary funder of the trial. “We hope this tri- at Franklin Court; CrimeStats in this collaborative, competitive process,” 12 Talk About Teaching and Learning al will establish whether testosterone therapy re- TARDEC Director Dr. Grace M. Bochenek sults in clear benefits for older men.” Pullout: December AT PENN ALMANAC November 24, 2009 www.upenn.edu/almanac  SENATE From the Senate Office Deaths The following is published in accordance with the Faculty Senate Rules. Among other purposes, the publication of SEC actions is intended to stimulate discussion among the Dr. Glick, Dental Medicine & Medicine constituencies and their representatives. Please communicate your comments to Sue White, Dr. Jane Glick, re- executive assistant to the Senate Office, either by telephone at (215) 898-6943, tired faculty admin- or by e-mail at [email protected]. istrator for the Cell & Molecular Biology Faculty Senate Executive Committee Actions Graduate Group in the Wednesday, November 18, 2009 School of Medicine, passed away Novem- Chair’s Report. Faculty Senate Chair Harvey Rubin reported that the Senate committees are ber 15 of injuries from working hard on their charges. He notified SEC members that the December meeting will be a dis- a fall; she was 65. cussion format on the topic of the trajectory of the faculty and noted that the meeting will not be Dr. Glick graduated held in 205 College Hall. Dr. Rubin explained that the location of the meeting will be announced from Randolph-Macon in a forthcoming e-mail. Women’s College (now 2009-2010 Nominating Committee Ballot. SEC members voted for the 2009-2010 Nominat- Randolph College) in ing Committee Chair. Virginia and then com- Developing a World Class Faculty. Provost Vincent Price updated SEC on the goals to develop Jane Glick pleted her PhD in bio- and maintain a world class faculty: eminence, diversity, integration, and engagement. He reviewed chemistry at Colum- challenges in the current economic climate including: Penn’s endowment in comparison to peer in- bia University. After post-doctoral fellowships stitutions, recruitment and retention of faculty in a competitive environment, work-life balance for at both the National Institutes of Health and faculty, childcare needs, family friendly policies, and pressures on faculty academic leaders. Pro- Stanford University, Dr. Glick joined the facul- vost Price outlined opportunities at Penn such as: a strong student body, an outstanding faculty and ty at Penn in 1975 as a research assistant profes- staff, a commitment to excellence, effective stewardship of resources, and regional strengths. He sor in the School of Dental Medicine. Here Dr. discussed strategies for faculty development including: assessment and accountability, identifica- Glick worked closely with colleague Dr. Phoe- tion of best practices, tenure and promotion, mid-career development, and retirement. He reviewed be Leboy, now professor emerita of biochemis- new initiatives to address records management and data analysis issues, workshops to improve fac- try, to understand the mechanisms of action of ulty searches and to orient and train department chairs, and resources available to promote diver- tRNA methyltransferases. Dr. Glick then went sity. to the Medical College of Pennsylvania, where Admissions Update. Dean of Admissions Eric Furda reported on the admissions landscape lo- she remained on the faculty until 1994, rising cally at Penn and nationally around the country. He stated that the office has received all early ad- to the rank of professor of biochemistry. During missions applications as of November 1, noting that Penn receives more early admissions applica- this period she published 35 manuscripts on lip- tions than any other university in the country. Mr. Furda outlined admissions outreach efforts in- id metabolism in the top peer-reviewed journals, cluding programs such as partnering with the Posse Foundation and the Quest Bridge program that focusing on the biochemical controls of choles- advance the goal of making Penn more accessible to exceptional students who otherwise could not terol accumulation. Dr. Glick was awarded the afford an Ivy League education. He expressed interest in utilizing Penn faculty as advocates to talk Lindback Teaching Award by the Medical Col- to potential students noting that MIT and Brown University are both doing this in various ways. lege of Pennsylvania in 1985. SEC discussion focused on topics such as outreach to international students and students in rural In 1994, Dr. Glick joined Penn Medicine as areas of the country, gender identification on the online application, and ways that graduate school a senior research investigator, and later, adjunct faculty and retired faculty can help the Office of Admissions. associate professor in cell and molecular biolo- gy. Her scientific accomplishments while at Penn included understanding why macrophages in the Multidisciplinary Pilot Grants from the Institute on Aging, ADCC, and arterial wall accumulate cholesterol, becoming Penn Center for Musculoskeletal Disorders: February 5 “foam cells” that form the bulk of plaque caus- The University of Pennsylvania Institute on Each pilot will be funded at a level of up to ing heart disease. Dr. Glick also made impor- Aging (IOA), with the Penn Center for Muscu- $50,000/year for personnel and supply costs, but tant contributions to the understanding of what loskeletal Disorders, and the Alzheimer’s Dis- not equipment or instruments. (Note that due to prevents macrophages from effectively remov- ease Core Center (ADCC) will fund ten one- matching requirements, it is encouraged that ing excess cholesterol and she played a key role year multidisciplinary pilot grants in the 2010- budgets equal $50,000 exactly.) The purpose of in identifying and cloning endothelial lipase, a 2011 academic year to support biomedical, ep- these one-year, non-renewable grants is to assist major regulator of HDL metabolism. idemiological, behavioral or health services re- faculty in obtaining preliminary data to serve as Also in 1994, Dr. Glick became director of ed- search, as well as basic science, clinical or psy- the basis of a grant application to the NIH or ucation in the Gene Therapy Program, which was chosocial research. other public or private agencies concerned with later transferred into faculty administrator of the Two of the pilots, funded by the Penn ADCC, aging, musculoskeletal tissue injury and repair, then fledgling Cell and Molecular Biology Grad- will focus on Alzheimer’s disease and related or Alzheimer’s Disease and related neurodegen- uate Group (CAMB) within Biomedical Grad- neurodegenerative disorders. erative disorders. uate Studies. Dr. Glick, along with fellow col- At least one pilot, supported by funds from Applications will be considered for all pilot leagues Jim Alwine, Jon Raper and Susan Ross, the Penn Center for Musculoskeletal Disorders, grant award programs—for which they are eli- helped to transform CAMB into a national model as well as funds from the Penn School of Med- gible—described in this announcement. of excellence by focusing on quality advising. Dr. icine and a generous matching grant from The Application Process: Detailed instructions Glick retired from this position in 2008. Bingham Trusts, should be related to musculo- regarding the application process can be found In addition to her faculty and administra- skeletal tissue injury and repair with a focus on on the IOA’s website, www.med.upenn.edu/ag- tor duties, Dr. Glick served on the executive aging. ing/. For information, contact Kathryn Jedrz- committee of the Philadelphia Antiques Show, The remaining seven pilots, supported by iewski, IOA deputy director, at (215) 898-2445 which benefits the Hospital of the University of funding from the Penn School of Medicine and or via e-mail at [email protected]. Pennsylvania. The Bingham Trust, will focus on aging and ag- Deadline: February 5, 2010. Anticipated date of Dr. Glick is survived by her husband, Dr. ing related diseases. award: July 1, 2010. John Glick, faculty member and administrator Applicants may consider using data from in the School of Medicine; daughters, Kather- the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center. Subscribe to Express Almanac ine Anne Cox and Sarah Glick Johnson; grand- More information can be found at their website: Sign up to receive children, Ashley, Andrew, Carter Cox and Wal- https://www.alz.washington.edu/. e-mail notification ter Johnson; and a brother, Albert Mills, III. The Principal Investigator for each of these when we post break- Donations may be made to the Jane M. ing news between issues. Send an e-mail to Glick Graduate Student Teaching Award, Uni- 10 pilots must be a member of the Penn full- [email protected] with “subscribe e- time faculty from any of the 12 schools. Col- versity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, c/o almanac ” in the body of the Development Office, 3535 Market St., Suite laboration with other departments or schools is the message. —Ed. strongly encouraged. 750, Philadelphia, PA 19104.

 www.upenn.edu/almanac ALMANAC November 24, 2009 Dr. Hymes, Former GSE Dean Alex Ryles, Undergraduate Student to Penn as a fellow in reproductive endocrinolo- Dr. Dell H. Hymes, Alex Ryles, a sophomore in the College died gy and infertility. Dr. Tureck served as director of dean of the Gradu- November 22 at the age of 19. He was an urban Penn’s IVF and Embryo Transfer Program from ate School of Educa- studies major. An obit will appear next month. 1982 to 1994, when he became a full professor. tion from 1975-1987, “Dr. Tureck was devoted to his patients and passed away November Memorial Service: Dr. Raffensperger dedicated to teaching our fellows, residents, and 13 from complications On Tuesday, December 8 at 6 p.m., the medical students,” said Dr. Deborah Driscoll, of Alzheimer’s disease. School of Medicine, Division of Gastroenter- chair of obstetrics and gynecology at Penn. He He was 82 years old. ology will hold a memorial for Dr. Edward C. served as a faculty preceptor and a career coun- Prior to coming to Raffensperger, professor emeritus of medicine, selor since 1986. Dr. Tureck was the director of Penn, Dr. Hymes held who died October 2 at 95 years old (Almanac reproductive surgery at the Hospital of the Uni- appointments at the October 13, 2009). The memorial will be held in versity of Pennsylvania from 1994 to 2006. University of Califor- the Austrian Auditorium, 1st floor of the Clinical “The first IVF pregnancy in the tri-state nia, Berkeley and Har- Research Building, with a reception to follow. area—which resulted in the successful birth of Dell Hymes vard University. Dr. a baby girl—was done under Dr. Tureck’s lead- Hymes joined the Penn Beef and Beer in Memory of ership,” said Dr. Steven Sondheimer, profes- faculty in 1965 as professor of folklore and lin- Mr. Stefaniuk: December 10 sor of obstetrics and gynecology at Penn. “That guistics and of anthropology. Before becoming A Beef and Beer Fundraiser will take place baby girl has grown into healthy adult woman dean, he had also served as professor of soci- on Thursday, December 10, 5-10 p.m. at the who is now the mother of a newborn child, con- ology and was associated with the University’s Penn Museum in memory of Jason Stefaniuk, ceived without the need of infertility treatment. graduate groups in communications and in the the web developer, programmer/analyst, for the Dr. Tureck was a pioneer in the field of infertili- history and sociology of science. As dean, Dr. Museum, who died in a car crash on October ty who searched for ways to improve treatment. Hymes started the linguistics program in GSE. 4 at age 33 (Almanac October 20, 2009). Join He traveled to England to learn ultrasound egg He left in 1987 to serve on the faculty at the friends, family and colleagues for an evening of retrieval and introduced it to this region. Before University of Virginia in both the anthropology fun, food, music, raffles and fond memories. this, egg retrieval required an abdominal inci- and English departments. He retired from there Mr. Stefaniuk was a member of the IT and sion,” added Dr. Sondheimer. in 1998 as an emeritus professor. Digital Media Center staff as the personality be- Dr. Tureck was a fellow of the American Throughout his career, Dr. Hymes had hind the Museum’s Flickr, YouTube, and Face- College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and a taught classes in linguistic anthropology, Native book pages and was working on numerous other member of the American Association for the American mythology, ethno-poetics and Native projects to improve the online and in-museum Advancement of Science; the American Society American poetry. He was the author of several experience for visitors. Fluent in sign language, of Reproductive Medicine; the American Soci- books including Language in Culture and Soci- he was a contributor to the deaf community in ety for Gynecologic Laparoscopists; the Society ety, Foundations in Sociolinguistics: An Ethno- Philadelphia. Penn Museum would like to soon of Reproductive Surgeons; and The American graphic Approach, Studies in the History of Lin- launch guided video tours for the deaf and hear- Fertility Society. guistic Anthropology and the most recent Now I ing-impaired to honor Mr. Stefaniuk’s memo- Dr. Tureck is survived by his wife, Pamela and Know Only So Far: Essays in Ethnopoetics. ry. Tickets are $25 per person and all proceeds two sons, Richard and Brett, daughter-in-law and After interrupting his studies to serve in the from this event will go directly towards estab- grandson. “On a more personal note,” added Dr. Army in World War II, Dr. Hymes graduated lishing these tours, see www.penn.museum. Coutifaris, “I—along with the help of Richard’s from Reed College in 1950. He went on to earn Dr. Tureck, Obstetrics & Gynecology youngest son, Brett—played a role in introducing his doctorate in linguistics from Indiana Univer- Dr. Richard W. Tu- him to live opera performances. His favorite was sity in 1955. reck, professor of ob- Mozart’s ‘The Marriage of Figaro.’ I won’t ever Dr. Hymes is survived by his wife, Virginia; stetrics and gynecol- be able to listen to or see a performance of this op- four children, Vicky Unruh, Robert Hymes, Al- ogy in the School of era again without thinking of Richard. He will be ison Hymes, and Kenneth Hymes; five grand- Medicine, died Octo- greatly missed, both professional and personally.” children; two great-grandchildren; and a broth- ber 28, while vacation- Contributions may be made in honor of Dr. er, Corwin Hymes. ing abroad with family. Tureck to the Children’s Hospital of Philadel- Memorial donations may be made to the He was 60 years old. phia, Development Office, 34th Street and Civic Charlottesville Center for Peace and Justice Dr. Tureck joined Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104-4399. (CCPJ), P.O. Box 3381, Charlottesville, VA the Penn Medicine de- 22903. partment of obstet- To Report A Death rics and gynecology as Almanac appreciates being informed Dr. Katz, Medicine & Presbyterian a fellow in 1979 and of the deaths of current and former facul- Dr. Robert I. Katz, former assistant profes- spent his entire career ty and staff members, students, and other sor of medicine at the Hospital of the Univer- members of the University community. at Penn, rising to the Richard Tureck sity of Pennsylvania and the Presbyterian Med- rank of professor. “Dr. Call (215) 898-5274 or e-mail alma- ical Center, passed away October 21. He was Tureck was the first person to direct our in-vitro [email protected]. 72 years old. fertilization (IVF) program—one of the first in However, notices of alumni deaths Dr. Katz joined the University in the 1970s. the country,” said Dr. Christos Coutifaris, chief should be directed to the Alumni Records He worked in the Penn Heart and Vascular area of reproductive endocrinology and infertility Office at Room 545, Franklin Building, of the Presbyterian Medical Center until his at Penn. “He did this with enthusiasm, dedica- (215) 898-8136 or e-mail record@ben. resignation in 2001. tion and passion and always put ‘patients first.’ dev.upenn.edu. According to comments by former patients, When, many years later, I became involved with Correction: In last week’s issue, the arti- Dr. Katz was known for his compassionate care the administration of the program, I experienced and extraordinary bedside manner. cle about the recipient of the University’s Inau- first hand how much all the patients appreciated gural Creative Spirit Award, James A. DePreist, Dr. Katz graduated from Middlebury Col- his care and his caring. They absolutely loved lege in 1958, and earned his medical degree should have stated that Malmo Symphony is in him. This says a lot about the lives he touched Malmo, Sweden, not Stockholm. —Eds. from Howard University in 1963. and the happiness he generated.” Dr. Katz is survived by his wife, Mimsye; Dr. Tureck received his undergraduate de- children, Adam, Daniel and Susan; and grand- gree from Manhattan College and his medical Penn Bookstore Survey daughter, Isabella. degree from Cornell University Medical College Participate in the Penn Bookstore Memorial contributions may be made to the in 1975. After completing his internship and resi- survey online at www.upenn.edu/sur- David M. Katz Scholarship Fund, Boyer Col- dency in obstetrics and gynecology at The Roos- vey/bookstore for a chance to win one lege of Music and Dance, Temple University, evelt Hospital, the Teaching Hospital of Colum- of three $100 gift certificates to the Penn 1715 North Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19122, bia University Medical College in 1979, he came Bookstore. Attn: Tara Webb Duey. ALMANAC November 24, 2009 www.upenn.edu/almanac  Honors & Other Things

The Power Fifty Dr. Domenic Vitiello, Penn IUR Faculty Fellow SSWR Honorable Mention: Dr. Gellis In the November issue of Philadelphia mag- and assistant professor of city and regional plan- Dr. Zvi D. Gellis, associate professor in the azine, Trustee Chair David Cohen and Penn ning, has won the 2009 Catherine Bauer Wurster School of Social Policy & Practice, received an President Amy Gutmann were included in the Prize for Best Article in American Planning Histo- honorable mention from the 2010 Society for “The Power Fifty 2009” ranking of the most in- ry. His article, “Machine Building and City Build- Social Work Research Excellence in Research fluential Philadelphians. ing: Urban Planning and Industrial Restructuring Award for his article, “Randomized controlled Mr. Cohen, chairman of the Trustees of the in Philadelphia, 1894-1928,” was published in the trial of problem-solving therapy for minor de- University of Pennsylvania and executive vice Journal of Urban History in March 2008. pression in home care.” In conferring the hon- president of Comcast, took the #1 spot for being Erickson Award: Dr. Bogner orable mention, the Society recognizes the sig- “the man local honchos go to when they need Dr. Hillary R. Bogner, assistant professor of nificance of the problem addressed in hisre- to get something done, large or small” and his family medicine and community health in the search (seniors & emerging mental health is- “role in shaping every aspect of city life.” School of Medicine, received the 2009 Erickson sues), the rigor of the analysis and its contribu- Ranking at #8, Dr. Gutmann was praised Foundation Research Award for excellence in ge- tion to knowledge in social work and social wel- for the University’s efforts to expand its green rontological research. This new award is present- fare. Dr. Gellis will be presented with the award space, co-chairing Mayor Michael Nutter’s ed by the Gerontological Health Section of the at the Presidential Awards Ceremony in January transition team, and her implementation of “a American Public Health Association (APHA), in at the 2010 SSWR Conference. no-loan/all-grant aid system” for undergradu- order to recognize excellence in research pertain- ates with financial need. Lifetime Achievement: Dr. Jamieson ing to positive aging. The Erickson Foundation Dr. Kathleen Hall Jamieson, the Elizabeth Penn #8 in Best Value has created this award to celebrate research that Ware Packard Professor of Communication and The University of Pennsylvania ranked #8 on explores aspects of active, healthy aging, particu- director of the Annenberg Public Policy Cen- the list of the “50 Best Values in Private Uni- larly creating healthy communities. The award is ter, is the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement versities 2009-2010” published in the Decem- accompanied with a $1,000 cash prize. Award, part of the 2009 Spectrum Awards from ber 2009 issue of Kiplinger’s Personal Finance CNF President: Dr. Brown the Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter of the magazine. Kiplinger’s definition of value- in Dr. Lawrence Brown, associate professor of American Red Cross. Dr. Jamieson was present- cludes academic quality, costs of attending an neurology and pediatrics at the Children’s Hos- ed with this award earlier his month. “[Dr. Ja- institution and its generosity with financial aid. pital of Philadelphia (CHOP), has been named mieson] embodies the spirit of the Red Cross,” Panofsky Prize: Dr. Beier president of the Child Neurology Foundation said Tom Foley, CEO of the Southeastern Penn- The American Phys- (CNF), a national nonprofit organization advo- sylvania chapter of the American Red Cross. ical Society has an- cating for children and adolescents with neuro- “She is a pioneer who operates at the very high- nounced that Dr. Eugene logic and developmental disorders. He will lead est echelons of her field.” Beier, the Fay R. and Eu- the organization for three years. Dr. Brown has Wharton Dean’s Medal: Mr. Mack gene L. Langberg Pro- served on the CNF Board since 2006, and teach- The Wharton School has awarded the Dean’s fessor of Physics, will be es in the School of Medicine. Medal, the School’s highest tribute, to Mr. Wil- the recipient of the 2010 ADA Award: Dr. Compher liam L. Mack, vice chair of the Board of Trust- W.K.H. Panofsky Prize Dr. Charlene Compher, associate professor ees and vice chair of the Board of Overseers of in Experimental Physics. of nutrition science in the School of Nursing, Wharton. Bestowed for extraordinary achieve- The prize is the highest has been awarded the Excellence in the Prac- ment or service to society by an individual, the honor in experimental tice of Research Award by the American Dietet- Medal recognizes Mr. Mack for his leadership particle physics awarded ic Association (ADA) in recognition of her out- in business, which has promoted economic de- by the Society. It is being Eugene Beier standing service, leadership, and contributions velopment throughout the world; for his com- presented to Dr. Beier in to the dietetics profession. This top award was mitment to his country, his schools and his com- recognition of his contributions to the study of presented at the 2009 Food and Nutrition Con- munity through military service, volunteerism neutrino interactions. Dr. Beier will be formally ference & Expo in October. and meaningful philanthropy. presented with the prize and will deliver an in- vited lecture on his work at the Society’s meet- American College of Psychiatrists: Patient Safety Committee: Ms. Magro ing in February. Dr. Evans Ms. Maria Magro, director of the Nurse The American College of Psychiatrists has Anesthesia Program in the School of Nursing, Distinguished Educator: Dr. Birch Dr. Dwight L. Evans will serve as an invited consultant on the An- Dr. Eugenie Birch selected , Ruth Meltzer , co-director of the Penn Professor of Psychiatry in the School of Med- esthesia Patient Safety Foundation’s Executive Institute for Urban Research and Lawrence C. icine, as the 44th president of the organization Committee, making her the first certified regis- Nussdorf Professor of Urban Research and Ed- for 2009-2010. As president, he will oversee tered nurse anesthetist to serve in this role in the ucation, was awarded the Association of Colle- The College’s governance and chair its annual Foundation’s 25-year history. The Committee is giate Schools of Planning’s Distinguished Ed- meeting, “Translating Scientific Advances into primarily comprised of PhD researchers and an- ucator Award at its annual meeting in October. Psychiatric Practice,” in February. esthesiologists. The award is given every two years for schol- arly contributions, teaching excellence, service, Lifetime Achievement: Dr. Gelles BMES Fellow: Dr. Margulies and significant contributions. Dr. Richard J. Gelles, Dr. Susan Margulies, professor of bioengi- dean of the School of So- neering and neurosurgery, has been named a Penn IUR Honors cial Policy & Practice and Fellow of the Biomedical Engineering Society The Society of American City and Region- the Joanne and Raymond (BMES) for her national and international con- al Planning History has awarded its Lawrence Welsh Chair of Child tributions to Biomedical Engineering and for in- C. Gerkins Award for Sustained Excellence in spired leadership in BMES. The Board of Direc- Dr. Eugenie Birch, Welfare and Family Vio- Planning History to co-direc- lence, received a Lifetime tors confers the status of Fellowship to Society tor of the Penn Institute for Urban Research, at Achievement Award from members who demonstrate exceptional achieve- its annual meeting. ments and experience in the field of biomedical Dr. Randall Mason the National Family Vio- , Penn IUR Faculty Fel- lence Legislative Resource engineering, and a record of membership and low, associate professor of city and regional Center in recognition of participation in the Society. Dr. Margulies’s re- planning and historic preservation in the School his outstanding contribu- search goal is to determine functional and struc- of Design, and department chair, received an tions in the field of fami- Richard Gelles tural injury thresholds in the brain and lung, and honorable mention by the Lewis Mumford Prize ly violence. The Nation- use them to understand mechanisms of traumat- for Best Book in City and Regional Planning al Family Violence Legislative Resource Center ic brain and lung injury. History for his recent book, The Once and Fu- ture New York: Historic Preservation and the presented the award to Dr. Gelles at the “From Ed. Note: More Honors will be published next Ideology to Inclusion” Conference in June. Modern City. month.  www.upenn.edu/almanac ALMANAC November 24, 2009 Gifts of Involvement

An array appropriate for ardent aficionados and advocates of anthropology/archaeology, art, arboreta, and academe. . . . Library Friends can be a part of the con- . . . Botanical Beauty: Members of the tinual replenishment of the Library resources, Morris Arboretum, Pennsylvania’s official supporting collection development and growth arboretum, receive free admission, 10% for scholars of today and tomorrow. A $1,000 discount in the gift shop, 20% gift in support of the Penn Library annual fund discount on educational classes . . . Keepsakes: Own a piece of The Palestra! entitles you to membership in Penn’s Red and Blue and excursions, the quarterly Business Services and Penn Athletics have Society. $2,500+ gifts entitle you to membership newsletter, plant sale benefits, joined together to produce several finely in the Benjamin Franklin Society. For information Morris Arboretum automobile crafted products made from the original sur- see www.library.upenn.edu/portal/opportunities/ decal, admission privileges to rounding boards of The Palestra. The items friend.html. over 200 gardens and arboreta include hardwood inset cufflinks (above), . . . What a Wonderful World: Membership through the American Horticulture Society, photo frames, pens and a traditional bottle discounts for local garden centers and invi- opener with netting from the basketball hoops. at International House Philadelphia supports programming that promotes cross-cultural tations to events and lectures. Membership Products include a certificate of authenticity levels: Far-Away Friends $40, Individual $55, along with a brief history of The Palestra. awareness and diversity. Membership benefits include reduced prices or free admission for select Dual $65, Family $75, Beech $95, Chestnut Shown above are University of Pennsylvania $150, Holly $250, Oak $500, Laurel $1,000 sterling silver cufflinks with hardwood inset events and invitations to members-only events. Memberships: Student $35, Internationalist $50, and Katsura $2,500. The membership form is crafted from the wooden floor of The Palestra. online at www.morrisarboretum.org. For your Visit www.upenn.edu/palestrawoodcraft! Adventurer $100, Individual ($175/household), Globetrotter $250 ($400), Attache $500 ($750), favorite gardener, the Arboretum Gift Shop . . . Stage Spectacular: Penn Presents will Emissary $1,000, Diplomat $2,500, Consul has a full line of garden-inspired home items, stage numerous shows including $5,000, Ambassador $10,000, Global Leader toys and the latest horticulture publications for classical, gospel and jazz music; $25,000. Information: www.ihousephilly.org/ the professional and amateur. Call the Morris ballet and modern dance; and membership-donors.htm. Arboretum gift shop: (215) 247-5777 x136. world discovery performances . . . Marvelous Museum: Those who treasure . . . Delectable Delights: All You Can Eat now through May. Get a jump Lunch Voucher for purchase, $11.25. Valid in on your holiday shopping with a unique gift the past will be delighted with a full year’s mem- bership to the University of any Bon Appétit at Penn Dining residential for friends and family. Annenberg Center gift Pennsylvania Museum of dining café. Certificates are available in any amount, and Archaeology and Anthro- A gift of a University Club at Penn are redeemable for all Annenberg Center per- pology. formances. Donations are welcome to help the Members enjoy membership is something unique and useful, Annenberg Center maintain its programming. free admission, discounts continuing to give all year. Privileges include Subscribers benefit from discounts, priority at the Museum Shops, invi- complimentary morning refreshments, special seating and more. For information: (215) 898- tations to openings and other event dinners, 10% discounts 3900 or www.pennpresents.org. members-only events, and at Penne Restaurant and Wine a subscription to the members-only newsletter. Bar and the University Living Members are kept up-to-date on the latest discov- Room at the Inn at Penn, and eries from the Museum’s worldwide fieldwork access to 100+ Faculty Clubs and research. In addition, members can receive in the United States and around discounts on select Penn Presents performances . . . Sweet Sounds: WXPN 88.5 FM, Penn’s the world. A gift certificate for member-supported radio station offers several at the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts. special mid-year membership membership choices for those who enjoy dis- Memberships: Student $40, 2 Students $55, As- is only $30 for all membership categories. covering emerging artists and re-discovering sociate $50, Individual $55, Dual $65, Household Also available are gift certificates for the some old favorites. Benefits include ticket $80, Sustaining $150, Patron $250, Fellow $500, Harrison Room buffet lunch, only $10.90 discounts, first notice of Free at Noon concerts and Loren Eiseley Society $1,500+. Information: each. Information: (215) 898-4618 or e-mail (215) 898-5093 or www.penn.museum/become- [email protected]. and a behind the scenes look at what is going a-member.html. on at XPN. Gift certificates are also available. . . . Feeling Fit: The Class of 1923 Arena More membership options and benefits can be . . . Alluring Art: Members of the Institute of offers a discount book of 10 admission passes found at www.xpn.org. Contemporary Art receive free admission to to any public skating session for $45 with a World Cafe Live selected events, invitations to free members-only PennCard or $55 for the public. Why not stuff provides a year-round exhibition walkthroughs with artists and curators, a stocking with skating lessons? Five weeks of musical venue of live pre-invite announcement cards for all exhibitions, group lessons, beginning performances as well access to ICA’s library, discounts on selected Penn the week of January 10, as a restaurant serving Presents performing arts programs and special are available for ages lunch and dinner. Gift discounts at area restaurants and businesses. Join 6 through adult in a va- certificates are available now at the Family level and receive free admis- riety of skill levels. The for purchase. For infor- sion to 200 participating museums. Memberships: deadline for registering for mation see www.worldcafelive.com. Individual $40; Family $100; Contributor $250; lessons is one week before Participant $500; Benefactor $1,000; Director’s the first session. Cost: $115, $10 discount for . . . Literary Lovers: Friends of the Kelly Circle $2,500, with additional membership bo- registering and paying two weeks in advance. Writers House help nuses for each. Information: (215) 898-7108 or Information: (215) 898-1923 or www.business- sustain seminars, www.ICAphila.org/support. services.upenn.edu/icerink/. readings and web- casts. Friends will be Arthur Ross Gallery offers those who contrib- Levy Tennis Pavilion memberships are $15 acknowledged in the ute $50 or more invitations to preview opening students and spouses; $40 faculty, staff and Writers House An- receptions and special events, and the schedule of spouses; $60 alumni; $75 public; $40 senior nual, which is avail- upcoming exhibitions, in addition to free admis- citizens; $6 guest fee; valid through September able on their website and in print. Membership sion to exhibitions, lectures and programs. Young 2010. Information: (215) 898-4741. levels: $40, $100, $250, $500, William Carlos Friends/Students membership is $25. Receive The Department of Recreation offers gift Williams Circle: $1,000, and Emily Dickinson the same benefits as other donors, along with certificates for massage therapy and the juice Circle: $2,500 or more. Information: http:// a free poster. For more information call (215) bar, Energy Zone. Information: (215) 898- writing.upenn.edu/wh/support. 898-3617 or visit www.upenn.edu/ARG/. 6100 or visit www.upenn.edu/recreation.

ALMANAC November 24, 2009 www.upenn.edu/almanac  Fabulous Finds for Those Fond of Facts or Fiction Sunnylands: Art and Architec- Want a special gift for the book-lovers on your holiday gift list? ture of the Annenberg Estate Well, there are numerous new books hot off the press again this year. in Rancho Mirage, California; The Penn Bookstore has many to choose from—factual and fictional, personal and edited by David G. De Long, pictorial, historical and innovative. These are some of the many new books by Penn professor emeritus of architec- authors—faculty, staff, trustees and alumni. Not only are there books from Penn ture. Tells the story of the cele- Press, but there are options from the Penn Museum and Wharton School Publishing brated home of Walter and Le- as well. onore Annenberg, now consid- For shoppers who want to preview the selection online, visit www.upenn.edu/pen- ered to be an icon of midcen- npress for collections by both Penn Press and the Penn Museum, and www.wharton- tury modernism. Penn Press. sp.com for Wharton School Publishing. Cloth $34.95.

Love, Mom: Poignant, Goofy, Brilliant Messages from Home; Doree Shafrir, C’99, Secrets to Happiness: A G’04; Jessica Grose. Come- Novel; Sarah Dunn, C’91. dic, maternal messages from Slept Away; Julie Kraut, Chronicles the lives of sev- mothers who know best. Plain, Honest Men: The Mak- Hardcover $17.99. ing of the American Constitu- C’04. A young adult novel eral New Yorkers and their The Difference: How Anyone tion; Richard Beeman, pro- about a teenager whose sum- varied lifestyles, from an Can Prosper in Even the Tough- fessor of history. Provides an mer is anything but what she unsuccessful writer to a est Times; Jean Chatzky, C’86. engaging look at the process expected after her parents cheating wife and more. Financial coach examines how through which the Consti- send her to summer camp, far Hardcover $23.99. to start from nothing and become tution was created, from the away from the luxuries of her financially secure through a bal- dramatic tensions to the votes New York home. Paperback ancing act. Hardcover $24.95. to their importance and rele- $8.99. vance. Hardcover $30.

Washington Internships: How to Get Them and Use Them to Launch Your Pub- lic Policy Career; Deírdre Martinez, director of the Fels How to Get Out of Iraq with Public Policy Internship Pro- Integrity; Brendan O’Leary, gram. A guide to landing that And Justice for All: The Unit- Lauder Professor of Politi- crucial first position in Amer- ed States Commission on Civ- Do Museums Still Need Ob- cal Science and director of jects?; Steven Conn, Gr’94. ica’s capital. Penn Press. Pa- il Rights and the Continu- the Program in Ethnic Con- per $19.95. ing Struggle for Freedom in By closely observing the flict. An in-depth analy- America; Mary Frances Berry, cultural, intellectual, and po- sis of the new Iraqi consti- Geraldine R. Segal Professor Frantic Panoramas: Amer- litical roles that museums tution, an evaluation of the Nothing but Ghosts; Beth of American Social Thought. ican Literature and Mass play in contemporary soci- political goals and powers Kephart, C’82; After her Tells the story of the Amer- Culture, 1870-1920; Nan- ety, while also delving deep- of the major ethnic and re- mother dies, 16-year old Ka- ican civil rights movement cy Bentley, associate pro- ly into their institutional his- ligious groups that will con- tie takes a summer job at the through the work of the US fessor of English. Examines tories, the book argues that stitute the new Iraqi state, garden estate of the reclusive Commission on Civil Rights, how the emergence of mass museums are no longer seen and an assessment of the re- Miss Martine and soon be- which helped gain new legis- culture affected literary cul- simply as houses for collec- gional realities of a Saddam- comes involved in decoding lation toward civil rights for ture in America. Penn Press. tions of objects. Penn Press. less Iraq. Penn Press. Cloth a mystery hidden in an old all. Hardcover $30. Cloth $59.95. Cloth $39.95. $34.95. painting. Hardcover $17.99.  www.upenn.edu/almanac ALMANAC November 24, 2009 The Network Challenge: Ask Dr. Marie: Straight Talk Strategy, Profit, and Risk in Learning from Catastro- and Reassuring Answers to an Interlinked World; Paul R. The Sufi Journey of Baba Your Most Private Ques- Electing the President, 2008: phes: Strategies for Reac- Rexheb; Frances Trix, Indi- The Insiders’ View; edited by Kleindorfer, professor emer- tions and Response; Howard tions; Marie Savard, NU’72, itus of operations and infor- ana University. A recount- M’76 and Penn trustee, with Kathleen Hall Jamieson, pro- Kunreuther, Cecilia Yen Koo ing of the modern Sufi lead- fessor of communication in mation management; Yoram Professor of Decision Sci- Sondra Forsyth. This med- (Jerry) Wind, Lauder profes- er, a Muslim mystic from ical guide for women ad- the Annenberg School for ences and Business and Pub- the Balkans. Penn Museum. Communication and director sor of marketing and director lic Policy and co-director of dresses basic anatomy and of SEI Center for Advanced Cloth $55. physiology, sexuality, and of the Annenberg Public Pol- Risk Management and Deci- icy Center. Political experts Studies in Management; and sion Processes Center; Mi- the importance of health former Wharton staff mem- care, among other medical assess the importance of new chael Useem, The William factors ranging from cam- ber, Robert E. Gunther. Whar- and Jacalyn Egan Professor issues related to women. ton School Publishing. Hard- Hardcover $24.95. paign spending to the per- of Management and director formance of the press corps, cover $59.99. of the Center for Leadership from the effect of the Internet and Change Management. on news cycles to the influ- Wharton School Publishing. ence of Tina Fey. Penn Press. Hardcover $37.99. Paper $24.95.

Landscapes of Movement: Trails, Paths, and Roads in Anthropological Perspec- tive; edited by Clark L. Er- ickson, associate professor Rohm and Haas: A Centu- of anthropology and asso- Harry Truman’s Excellent ry of Innovation; Regina Lee The National PTA, Race, and ciate curator of the Ameri- Adventure: The True Story Blaszczyk, visiting scholar in Civic Engagement, 1897- can Section at the Penn Mu- of a Great American Road the department of the history 197 seum along with James E. Trip 0; Christine Woyshner, ; Matthew Algeo, C’88. and sociology of science. Ex- professor of education. An Snead and Andrew Darling. A reconstruction of Har- amines the 100-year history of examination of the Nation- Best African American Es- Documents paths, trails, and ry and Bess Truman’s post- this Philadelphia-based chem- al Parent Teacher Associa- says 2009; edited by Ger- roads of human movement presidential 2,500-mile road ical company, which has long tion (PTA) in relation to its ald Early, C’74 and Debra J. across times and cultures. trip in the 1950s. Hardcov- stressed the importance of con- racial politics and as a ven- Dickerson. An anthology of Penn Museum. Cloth $65. er $24.95. necting with the customer. Penn ue for women’s civic partici- previously published essays Press. Cloth $49.95 pation in educational issues. by 30 writers on the subjects Hardcover $52.95. of entertainment, sports, the arts, sciences, technology, education, activism, and political thought. Hardcov- The Once and Future New York: er $23. Historic Preservation and the Modern City; Randall Mason, associate professor of city & re- gional planning in the School of Design. Dr. Mason reveals that historic preservation has been a persistent force in the devel- opment of New York since the The 10Ks of Personal Brand- 1890s, when the city’s leading ing; Kaplan Mobray, C’94. politicians, planners, and archi- This guide offers ten must- tects first recognized the need know insights to building to preserve the rapidly evolving your personal brand. Paper- city’s past. Paperback $27.95. back $18.95. ALMANAC November 24, 2009 www.upenn.edu/almanac  Holiday Happenings at Penn

Festivities at the Penn Museum Holiday Bazaar: December 2 A grand opening celebration will be held on The Penn Museum offers international cel- The New Parents@Penn and the Working Saturday, November 28, 1-3 p.m., that will include ebrations, music, shopping and family fun to Parents’ Association Holiday Bazaar will take the sounds of costumed carolers strolling through bring everyone of every culture into the spirit of place on Wednesday, December 2 in front of Penn the garden. Kids and adults will also have the op- the season. Info.: www.museum.upenn.edu. Women’s Center on Locust Walk, noon-4 p.m. portunity to make an ornament or decoration from Holiday Shopping Savings: December 2-6 Self-made crafts, baked goods, holiday cards, natural materials to take home. This family event Wednesday, December 2 through Sunday, and a gift wrapping service will be offered. is free with regular garden admission: $14 adults, December 6, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The Penn Mu- Kwanzaa Celebration: December 3 $12 for seniors, students and youth (13-18) $7, seum’s shops—the Museum Shop and the Pyra- The Makuu Black Cultural Center is host- children under age three and members free. mid Shop for Children—will offer holiday ori- ing a Kwanzaa Celebration Dinner Thursday, On Sunday, December 13, 1:30-2:30 p.m., ented merchandise, as well as an assortment of December 3, 6-9 p.m. in Bodek Lounge, Hous- the Penn Glee Club will provide musical enter- international arts, crafts and jewelry. ton Hall. The Penn community is invited to join tainment. Free with regular admission. Visitors during the holiday shopping days Makuu in this annual festive affair with music, Workshops enjoy these discounts: 10% off all purchases good food, and fellowship. RSVP: makuu@dol- Morris Arboretum Holiday Classes (general public), 15% off all purchases (Univer- phin.upenn.edu. Register: www.morrisarboretum.org sity of Pennsylvania, HUP and CHOP employ- CA Christmas Open House: December 11 Holiday Wreath Making—Sunday, Decem- ees, with ID), and 20% off all purchases (Mu- The Christian Association’s annual Christ- ber 6. Designed for those who want to make seum members with ID). For more information, mas Open House will take place on December their wreath from fresh loose boughs of greens. call the Museum shops at (215) 898-4040. 11, noon-2 p.m. There will be food, fellowship There will be a selection of ribbons and deco- Holiday Family Celebration: December 6 and good cheer for students, faculty and staff. rations to make it festive. Section A: 10 a.m.- Grab your “passport” and get into the spir- Holiday Party at I-House: December 11 noon; Section B: 1-3 p.m.; $55, $46/members. it of the season Sunday, December 6, 1-4 p.m., The International house will host its annu- Holiday Tabletop Tree with Lights—Wednes- with the Penn Museum’s 14th annual free Peace al international holiday extravaganza with food, day, December 9. Design your own tree from Around the World family afternoon. All visitors dessert, tree trimming and orchestral music on long lasting greens, and choose your colors for receive Museum “passports” with itineraries to Friday, December 11 at 6 p.m. Admission: free bows and glass balls with fresh flowers to dec- visit nine countries via nine International Class- for IHouse alumni, members; $5 guests; $8 gen- orate this spectacular holiday centerpiece (22”- room speakers and explore holiday traditions in eral admission (cash only). 24” tall). Bring a box to take your tree home. countries around the world. The day also features Holiday Skate: December 19 and 20 Section A: 1-3 p.m.; Section B: 6:30-8:30 p.m.; holiday choir music by children and adults, Maya Saturday, December 19, Business Services $60, $50/members. storytelling, face painting, balloon art, interna- will host a Holiday Skate; free admission when Holiday Centerpiece Class—Saturday, De- tional family crafts and free treats for children. you bring a gift for Toys for Tots; 5:45 p.m.; at cember 19. Design your own festive, fragrant ar- On December 6, Penn Museum will offer a Class of 1923 Arena. Also, Sunday, December rangement for yourself or to give as a gift. Learn $25 discount on family memberships. 20, 1:30 p.m. professional tricks of the trade to create a beau- Visitors are invited to join in the holiday tiful display with a variety of evergreens. There Performances spirit of giving; a Toys For Tots Philadelphia of- will be an assortment of candles, flowers, fruit and ficial gift drop box will be accepting all new, un- Holiday Performances at World Café Live accessories; 10 a.m.-noon; $55, $46/members. wrapped toy donations. Info./Tickets: www.worldcafelive.com Kids’ Holiday Centerpiece—December 19. Holly Cole, A Night Before Christmas— Work with evergreen to create a fresh flower ar- Shopping/Dining Wednesday, December 2. A mix of jazz and pop Holiday Dinner at the University Club rangement to use as a centerpiece at your family’s standards and an eclectic selection of songs from holiday table; 1-2:30 p.m.; $33, $30/members. The University Club’s annual holiday recep- Christmases past. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $27, $37. tion dinner will be held on Tuesday, December ¡Viva Christmas! with El Vez & Los Strait- 1, from 5:30-8 p.m. The event is open to Club jackets and the Lovely Elvettes—Friday, Decem- members and their guests. The evening will in- ber 4. Holiday hits and Christmas classics. 7:30 clude butlered hors d’oeuvres, a carving station, p.m. Tickets: $24, $34. and seasonal desserts display. A full cash bar 4th annual Lizanne Knott and Friends will be available including specialty cocktails. Philabundance Benefit—Friday, December 11. The Sounds of Penn Performers The cost is $30 per person plus service charge Celebrate the holiday season and give a helping The new album by the Counterparts, New and tax. Reservations are required by phone hand to those in need. 9 p.m. Tickets: $6 plus a Wave, features popular and jazz tracks. Alum- (215) 898-4618 or e-mail universityclub@po- non-perishable food item. nus John Legend was a member of this premier box.upenn.edu. New Year’s Eve with Davy Knowles & Back jazz/pop a capella group. The CD is available Penn Bookstore Annual Holiday Sale Door Slam—Thursday, December 31. Perfor- for $15 on their website, www.dolphin.upenn. The Penn Bookstore’s Annual Holiday Sale mance includes acoustic guitar with blues rock edu/cparts/index.html. on December 10 and 11 features 20% off books, sounds. Enjoy dinner before the show in the Up- Penn’s co-ed modern rock/pop/indie a cap- music, gifts and more! Some restrictions apply. stairs cafe. 10 p.m. Tickets: $40, $55, $75. pella group, The Penny Loafers, has released Celebrations Penn Presents Holiday Performances The Cops Come at Midnight. Purchase the CD for $15 or download for $12. See www.thepen- Youcie Holiday Party and Gift Drive For ticket prices see www.pennpresents.org Irish Christmas in America—Friday, Decem- nyloafers.com. Join the Young Friends of University City On Detours, is the latest CD by Hindi a cap- (Youcie) for a special event to benefit area ber 11. Celebrate the yuletide traditions of the Em- erald Isle with members of Téada, plus Irish singer pella group Penn Masala. Last month, the group mothers and children currently residing at the performed at the White House for the Diwali People’s Emergency Center (PEC), West Phil- and accordionist Séamus Begley and guest musi- cians and dancers; 8 p.m.; Zellerbach Theatre. celebration. Penn Masala’s music is influenced adelphia’s longstanding and comprehensive so- by both Eastern and Western cultures. Their CD cial service agency for homeless women, teen- A Creole Christmas—Saturday, December 12. Straight from the Big Easy and featuring a flavor- can be purchased for $10 at www.pennmasala. agers, and their children. On Wednesday, De- com and be downloaded from iTunes. cember 2, 6-8 p.m., all those age 21 and over ful gumbo of Christmas classics with a twist of rag- time, blues and jazz; 8 p.m.; Zellerbach Theatre. Now in its 147th season, the Penn Glee Club are invited to gather at The Blockley Pourhouse, has released Penn Pipers. The CD containing 20 3801 Chestnut Street (at Ludlow), for the Holi- Holiday Garden Railway Display The Morris Arboretum’s popular Holi- titles, reflects their unique blend of musical ex- day Party and Gift Drive. cellence and theatrical showmanship. It is avail- Visit http://universitycity.org/youcie for an day Garden Railway Display has returned and is open from November 27 through January 3 able for $10 on their website, www.dolphin. extensive list of suggested gifts. upenn.edu/gleeclub. Donations of those who can’t attend the (closed December 24, 25 and January 1). The display includes model trains decked out for the Soulchild is the latest release by Penn’s all- event, should be placed in the drop box at the female South Asian a cappella group, Atma. The University City District office at 3940 Chestnut holidays running along a quarter mile track out- doors in the Morris Arboretum’s winter garden, group blends music from India, Bangladesh, Street. The drive ends December 16. America and the West Indies. Purchase the al- To RSVP: e-mail [email protected] surrounded by a miniature village adorned with thousands of twinkling lights for the holidays. bum for $10 at www.pennatma.com.  www.upenn.edu/almanac ALMANAC November 24, 2009 Human Resources: Upcoming Programs

Professional and Personal Development Quality of Worklife Workshops Improve your skills and get ahead in your Dealing with the demands of work and your career by taking advantage of the many devel- personal life can be challenging. These free opment opportunities provided by Human Re- workshops, sponsored by Human Resources and sources. You can pre-register for programs led by experts from Penn’s Employee Assistance by visiting the online course catalog at www. Program and Quality of Worklife Department, hr.upenn.edu/coursecatalog or by contacting offer information and support for your person- Learning and Education at (215) 898-3400. al and professional life challenges. Pre-regis- Penn Certificate Program in Administrative tration is required. You are welcome to bring a Reminder: Excellence; begins December 2; multiple dates brown bag lunch to the sessions. For more infor- Special Winter Vacation with varying times; $100. If you’re an administra- mation or to register, visit the Human Resourc- As you start planning for the upcoming hol- tive professional looking to enhance your skills, es online course catalog at www.hr.upenn.edu/ iday season, don’t forget that Penn grants facul- consider enrolling in the Penn Certificate Program coursecatalog or contact Human Resources at ty and staff a Special Winter Vacation between in Administrative Excellence. This multi-session, (215) 573-2471 or [email protected]. Christmas Day and New Year’s Day each year. cohort-based program is targeted for frontline, Stress Management; December 15; 11:30 This year, the special winter vacation days will be support and administrative staff. Topics will in- a.m.–1 p.m.; free. Stress can take an unfortunate December 28, 29, 30 and 31. In the event that an clude office organization, communication skills, toll on our health and wellbeing. But simple re- employee is needed to report to work to continue time and stress management, and more. You’ll laxation techniques can help combat the harm- departmental operations for part or all of this pe- also learn about succeeding in the decentralized ful effects of stress. You’ll learn how to identi- riod, the Special Winter Vacation may be resched- Penn environment, building your network and fy when you’re relaxed, and how to use relax- uled for another time. View the Special Winter clarifying your individual career plan. ation to improve your quality of life. This work- Vacation Policy online at www.hr.upenn.edu/Pol- Career Focus Brown Bag—Interviewing shop will also focus on responses to relaxation, icy/Policies/608.aspx for more information. for Success; December 10; noon–1 p.m.; free. the physical and mental signs of relaxation, and Wondering how to set yourself apart from oth- specific relaxation exercises and techniques. —Division of Human Resources er job applicants? A successful interview can of- ten be the deciding factor for many hiring man- agers when choosing the right candidate for a Climate Action Plan: Bon Appétit at Penn Dining—A Sustainable Choice job. This workshop will teach you the elements of effective interviews and how to successfully In July, Penn welcomed Bon Appétit, recognized both for its culinary ex- market yourself and your skills in order to ace pertise and as a pioneer in environmentally sound food policies to our cam- your next interview. You’ll learn how to prepare pus. Bon’s Appétit’s mission of “food services for a sustainable future” is de- for a variety of different interview types and the livered through its signature programs for quality, nutri- importance of non-verbal communication when tion and sustainability. The Farm to Fork program seeks interviewing. to purchase as much of the food as locally as possible, sustaining both local farmers and producers as well as Brown Bag Matinee—Project Management; local businesses. Already, only a few months after Bon December 16; noon–1 p.m.; free. In today’s fast- Appétit’s arrival, over 20% of the food being served at Penn is provided by lo- paced world, many people find themselves tack- cal farmers, bakers and companies within 150 miles of the campus. Other ini- ling more difficult and complex challenges in tiatives include using only seafood that is sustainably raised or caught and pro- the workplace. For some, project management viding shell and liquid eggs that are Certified Humane comes easily. But not everyone knows how to do and cage-free. it well. This video will teach you how to success- With these efforts, Bon Appétit at Penn Dining is a key partner in support fully keep projects on track regardless of their of the University’s Climate Action Plan. Bon Appétit’s Circle of Responsibil- size and scope. You’ll learn how to be an effec- ity Program provides a wealth of resources for individ- tive leader and project manager who knows how ual staff, faculty and students to understand the impact to organize priorities and meet objectives. the food we eat has on the environment and make di- Your Body: From Head to Toe—Part 2 etary choices that fit their goals and values. Taking care of your health means being well When you visit any campus dining facility, look for informed, well prepared, and capable of mak- the colorful menu icons that will help you make dietary choices. Members of ing good choices when it comes to your body. the Penn community can also visit the Bon Appétit at Penn Dining website This series of workshops, led by physicians and (www.upenn.edu/dining/) which has advice for working professionals on a va- health experts from the University of Pennsyl- riety of topics including weight management, balancing vania and the Health System, will address vari- your energy, dieting, food allergies and vegetarianism. Take part in the Low ous health issues from head to toe and steps you Carbon Diet Challenge this coming January and learn how decisions as simple can take to maintain a healthier lifestyle. Pre- as choosing chicken over beef can change your environmental footprint. registration is required for these workshops, Bon Appétit at Penn Dining’s registered dietitian, which are sponsored by Human Resources. You Terri Brownlee, can also help with questions about nu- are welcome to bring a brown bag lunch to the trition and healthy, sustainable food choices. She has sessions. For more information and to register, worked in the field of health and wellness for more than visit the online course catalog at www.hr.upenn. 15 years. She is available for small group lunch-and- edu/coursecatalog or contact Human Resources learn sessions at your office, or will answer your individual questions. She can at (215) 898-5116 or [email protected]. be reached by e-mail at: [email protected]. Stroke: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Preven- Look for “Food for Your Well Being” features each month at all Penn Din- tion; December 3; noon–1 p.m.; free. A stroke ing locations. October focused on sustainable seafood. Diners could sample is a life-threatening event in which part of the sustainable sushi or try a meal prepared with seafood that met the Monterey brain is deprived of adequate oxygen. It’s also Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch guidelines. In November, attention shifted the third leading cause of death in the Unit- to portion control. With the holidays fast approaching, ed States, behind heart disease and cancer. This many of us are concerned about over indulging on our workshop will teach you about some of the pre- favorite dishes. “Food for Your Well Being” can help! vention methods for strokes that can help elimi- Visit the website or one of our dining facilities to learn nate or minimize the risk factors. It will be led by strategies for understanding portion sizes. Dr. Steven R. Messe, division of stroke and neu- At Penn, eating meals that are tasty, healthy and sus- rocritical care, department of neurology, Univer- tainable is easier than ever. Bon Appétit at Penn Dining can help you make sity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. food choices that are beneficial for both your diet and your planet. — Marie Witt, Vice President, Business Services

ALMANAC November 24, 2009 www.upenn.edu/almanac  Exploring the World: Penn Abroad’s Annual Photo Contest The annual Penn Abroad photo contest is a showcase of University of Pennsylvania stu- dents’ interpretation of the host communities where they lived, studied and explored. The winning photos are shown here. These and ad- ditional photos are on display in the Interna- tional House Gallery through January 8.

First Place: Namib Desert Sunrise, (above) taken by SAS senior Megan Calpin in Swapokmund, Namibia while studying at the University of Cape Town, Fall 2008.

Second Place: Football on the Beach, (at right) taken by Wharton senior Laura Boudreau in Mermoz, Dakar, Senegal while studying at Baobab Center in Week Six Winners Dakar & Université Penn’s Way Raffle Prizes Gaston Berger in Saint- (November 9-13, drawing November 16) Louis, Sénégal (BSE), Matthew O’Malley, Corporate HUP— Spring 2009. Penn Athletics: Two Tickets to Penn Basket- Third Place: ball Game Montserrat, (at left) tak- Thomas Harvey, Corporate HUP—Penn en by SAS senior, Margo Athletics: Pass for Four to Penn Relays Prebenda in Marisa Roche, Pennsylvania Hospital— Barcelona (Montserrat), Fork: Gift Certificate, dinner for two Spain during the Penn Maryann Quinn, Pennsylvania Hospital— Semester in Barcelona, Philadelphia Museum of Art: Four Guest Passes Spring 2009. William Dickson, Facilities & Real Estate Services—Business Services: Hilton Inn at Penn: $50 Gift Certificate for Penne Penn Freshman’s Film: A Finalist in Nickelodeon Animation Festival Sharon Long, HUP—Business Services: Jason Merrin, a freshman in the Digital Me- he worked with Penn Design professor Ellen Morris Arboretum: One Family Membership dia Design (DMD) program at the University of Reynolds to match the specifications needed for Tara Kozlowski, HUP—Business Services: Pennsylvania’s School of Engineering and Ap- on-air and online play. Penn Publication Services: Penn Photography plied Science, is a finalist in the 2009 Nickel- “Jason, who had just begun one of our pro- Book odeon Animation Festival. duction classes, came to our lab for some help Chelsea Motzel, Nursing Student—Business His experimental film,The History of an An- formatting the work to meet Nick’s technical Services: Penn Ice Rink: 10 Admission Coupon imation, takes the audience through the process specifications,” Ms. Reynolds said. “There is a Booklet of how an animator learns to animate, from doo- lot of new terminology and fine print about for- Joanna Sowinski, HUP—4 Corners dles all the way through computer animation. mats today, so we’re happy to help sort out these Management: $50 Dining Gift Certificate He made the movie by combining live footage types of issues.” Marie Walton, HUP—The Belgian Café: with animation done in Adobe Flash. He used View and Vote Through November 29 $50 Gift Certificate music by Eno Freedman Brodmann. Mr. Merrin’s entry is available for viewing Lauren Skiff, Nursing Student—Douglas “I’ve always been interested in filmmaking online at www.nick.com/animation-festival/in- Cosmetics: Luxury Basket and animation, which was why I joined the Dig- dex.jhtml, where viewers can cast their ballots Lyndon Johnson, HUP—Office Depot: $25 ital Media Design program at Penn,” Mr. Mer- for the “Viewers’ Choice Award.” Gift Card rin said. “I found out about the contest through The work was also scheduled to be screened Barbara Medoff-Cooper, School of Nurs- Amy Calhoun at the DMD, who encouraged me on the Nicktoons Network on November 19, ing—Water Works: $50 Gift Card to enter.” as part of “Festival Week,” during which time Mr. Merrin, a resident of New York City, cre- viewers voted for their favorite short. Voting is Raffle winners for the Grand Prize will be ated the two-minute, 36-second animated short open through November 29. The short with the randomly selected December 4 and will be an- in 2008 and after he arrived on campus this fall most votes wins $5,000. nounced in Almanac in a subsequent issue. 10 www.upenn.edu/almanac ALMANAC November 24, 2009 Almanac Offices: Moving November 25 Almanac will be relocating its offices on Wednesday, November 25. Almanac will reopen on Monday, November 30 at the new location on the second floor of 3910 Chestnut Street/3111. The phone numbers and fax numbers will remain the same.

AT PENN Deadlines Submissions for the December 8 Update are due November 30. The deadline for the Janu-

ary AT PENN calendar, is Tuesday, December

Cohn Mark by Photograph 8. For more information see www.upenn.edu/al- manac/calendar/caldead-real.html. Ben’s House: Designing History at Franklin Court Franklin Court is an imaginative reconstruction of Ben Franklin’s life-long home consisting Almanac Schedule of a “ghost” structure representing the original house, a garden, an above ground archaeological There is no issue sched- display and underground museum spaces. Franklin Court challenges the prevailing norms for the uled for the Tuesday after interpretation of historic sites that no longer exist, like Benjamin Franklin’s Orianna Street. This Thanksgiving. Publication re- exhibition, on display at the Kroiz Gallery through January 22, explores the making of Franklin sumes on Tuesday, December Court through a selection of original sketches, models and period photographs. 8, 15 and 22. After the Win- ter Break, weekly publication begins on Tuesday, January 12. The University of Pennsylvania Police Department Happy Thanksgiving from PennSound Community Crime Report Just in time for Thanksgiving—a PennSound About the Crime Report: Below are all Crimes Against Persons and Crimes Against Society from the podcast excerpting poems of giving thanks from campus report for November 9-15, 2009. Also reported were 11 crimes against property (including 7 thefts, the PennSound archive: http://bit.ly/5hgg25 2 acts of vandalism, 1 burglary and 1 case of fraud). Full reports are available at: www.upenn.edu/almanac/ volumes/v56/n13/creport.html. Prior weeks’ reports are also online. —Ed. http://writing.upenn.edu/pennsound/podcasts.php. This summary is prepared by the Division of Public Safety and includes all criminal incidents reported and made known to the University Police Department between the dates of November 9-15, 2009. The Univer- sity Police actively patrol from Market Street to Baltimore Avenue and from the Schuylkill River to 43rd Street in conjunction with the Philadelphia Police. In this effort to provide you with a thorough and accurate report on public safety concerns, we hope that your increased awareness will lessen the opportunity for crime. For any concerns or suggestions regarding this report, please call the Division of Public Safety at (215) 898-4482. Suite 211 Sansom Place East 3600 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6106 Phone: (215) 898-5274 or 5275 FAX: (215) 898-9137 11/10/09 1:54 AM 4000 Spruce St Complainant shot in shin by unknown male E-Mail: [email protected] 11/10/09 11:52 AM 3942 Spruce St Male wanted on warrant/Arrest URL: www.upenn.edu/almanac 11/10/09 10:53 PM 4200 Locust St Male robbed by unknown males 11/10/09 11:21 PM 4000 Market St Officer assaulted/Arrest The University of Pennsylvania’s journal of record, opinion and 11/11/09 2:20 AM 100 S 33rd St Male driving under the influence/Arrest news is published Tuesdays during the academic year, and as 11/11/09 6:00 PM 3900 Locust Walk Complainant robbed by juveniles needed during summer and holiday breaks. Its electronic editions 11/12/09 8:54 AM 3624 Market St Threatening phone call received on the Internet (accessible through the PennWeb) include HTML 11/12/09 11:05 AM 3800 Spruce St Male had gun with no permit/Arrest and Acrobat versions of the print edition, and interim information 11/13/09 12:55 AM 4100 Locust St Unknown male attempted to rob complainant may be posted in electronic-only form. Guidelines for readers and 11/13/09 7:36 AM 3600 Sansom St Male committed assault/Arrest contributors are available on request and online. 11/13/09 6:28 PM 4000 Chestnut St Male robbed by unknown males EDITOR Marguerite F. Miller 11/14/09 2:50 AM 4000 Chestnut St Offender struck officer/Arrest ASSOCIATE EDITOR Natalie S. Woulard 11/14/09 9:14 AM 400 University Ave Male wanted on warrant/Arrest ASSISTANT EDITOR Andrea Tursi 11/14/09 6:02 PM 4001 Walnut St Male assaulted female STUDENT ASSISTANTS Shane Goldberg, Sonie Guseh, 11/14/09 6:23 PM 1 S 40th St Male wanted on warrant/Arrest Amy Li, Agatha Taveras, Janday Wilson 11/15/09 12:13 AM 3900 Delancey St 2 complainants robbed/2 suspects arrested 11/15/09 2:12 AM 4000 Walnut St 2 males cited for disorderly conduct ALMANAC ADVISORY BOARD: For the Faculty Senate, Mar- 11/15/09 11:54 PM 4000 Walnut St Intoxicated driver arrested tin Pring (chair), Sunday Akintoye, Helen Davies, Heather Love, Carey Mazer, Robert Hornik, Harvey Rubin, Katherine Sender. For the Administration, Lori N. Doyle. For the Staff Assemblies, Nancy McCue, PPSA; Michelle Wells Lockett, WPPSA; David Azzolina, 18th District Report Librarians Assembly. 10 incidents with 3 arrests (including 6 robberies and 4 aggravated assaults) were reported The University of Pennsylvania values diversity and seeks tal- between November 9-15, 2009 by the 18th District covering the Schuylkill River to 49th Street & Market ented students, faculty and staff from diverse backgrounds. The Street to Woodland Avenue. University of Pennsylvania does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disabili- 11/09/09 3:21 AM 5000 Market St Aggravated Assault ty, veteran status or any other legally protected class status in the 11/10/09 1:50 AM 4000 Spruce St Aggravated Assault administration of its admissions, financial aid, educational or ath- 11/10/09 10:53 PM 4200 Locust St Robbery letic programs, or other University-administered programs or in 11/12/09 11:26 PM 4700 Woodland Ave Robbery its employment practices. Questions or complaints regarding this policy should be directed to the Executive Director of the Office 11/13/09 12:00 AM 4100 Locust St Robbery of Affirmative Action and 11/13/09 12:32 AM 4123 Woodland Ave Robbery Equal Opportunity Pro- 11/13/09 8:00 AM 3600 Sansom St Aggravated Assault/Arrest grams, Sansom Place 11/13/09 6:22 PM 4000 Chestnut St Robbery East, 3600 Chestnut 11/13/09 11:42 PM 4000 Chestnut St Aggravated Assault/Arrest Street, Suite 228, Phil- 11/15/09 12:13 AM 3900 Delancey St Robbery/Arrest adelphia, PA 19104- 6106; or (215) 898-6993 ALMANAC November 24, 2009 www.upenn.edu/almanac 11 TALK ABOUT TEACHING AND LEARNING

Failing upward: a Journey in Teaching Emma E. Furth

I teach by fostering critical thinking and true understanding through sit still, remarking “She needs a staple gun to her butt.” Picking the wet reason. I hold fast to my tenet that by knowing a few basic, core principles tissues and myself off the floor, I sought refuge and a reality check from a of a subject and understanding how or the mechanisms by which a system trusted colleague. Taking a small bit of advice and a large dose of her com- works, we obviate the curse of memorization and allow for creativity and fort, I charged ahead with my unwavering conviction in my core underly- an open mind, enabling the discovery of “new” entities and furthering the ing principles of learning and teaching. I changed my lecture notes with- understanding of the “old.” I invite questions beginning with “why.” out altering an iota of the content or delivery of my lectures including the Descartes said, “I think therefore I am.” Do we walk down the hal- “lame” jokes. I presented in hard copy from my PowerPoint lecture with lowed academic halls saying, “I am a faculty member and therefore I underlying written words in the note field as their lecture notes. Despite teach?” I could put forth an aura of self-importance, claiming that my mo- the fact the many trees were fallen to make this change, the student re- tives are centered in teaching the future leaders and great doctors of our sponses were worth the environmental disaster. Students would comment world. My reasons for devoting such energy to this endeavor are not so at our weekly meetings on how much better my teaching was that year as aristocratic. I teach for the same reasons I chose my profession as an ac- they heard such horrible things from former students. My PowerPoint lec- ademic physician—giving meaning to my life. Bottom line, I have fun. tures converted to hand outs were now held as the “gold standard” for all Yes, “helping” people is good and the seemingly “right” answer during lecture notes. I had now presented to them the exact lecture and more in one’s Medical School interview but one for me which was never uttered hard copy such that they did not have to scribble notes but could concen- as doing so would not be completely genuine. I have always been fasci- trate on my presentation. They were now more at ease. Interestingly, my nated by trying to understand how and why things work; the jolt of joy once “lame” jokes were now marked as a highlight of my style. With ac- derived from that “aha” moment and insight is a natural “high.” During quired and deliberate political correctness, I thanked them for their feed- an interview for medical school, I described with great delight my experi- back all the time thinking to myself “I really have not changed anything ences in my undergraduate research lab. The interviewer seemed very per- in my teaching—I deliver the same lectures—all that has changed is the plexed and annoyed as I spoke with passion about my scientific interests. notes which is only a small part of the process. My content and teaching He leaned toward me with slightly pursed lips and a squint in his eyes and style are unchanged.” My chair in front of the microscope is devoid of sta- proclaimed with a hint of disdain, “You seem to be more interested in mol- ples and I continue to seek frequent movement during my clinical work ecules than people.” Without thought to what might be the “politically” and training of residents, multitasking as we go. As I rise from my chair correct response to such a condemnation of my expressions of joy and in- to walk and seek refuge for my legs, they are off tending to tasks for our terests, I responded with fervent honesty, “Well, people are made of mol- work. I return revitalized and they return armed to finish our work. Ev- ecules.” The interview ended thusly. I was promptly and surprisingly ac- eryone wins. cepted to that institution but did not elect to attend feeling that such an en- I have had many wonderful triumphant moments but many more bob- vironment would be the death of my mind, spirit and soul. bles along my teaching travels. I have learned that while success is sweet, Off to another medical school where my hopes were placed to find failure has been my most gifted teacher. It is said that we learn from our the critical thinking approach to learning in which I thrived as an under- mistakes; I therefore sit here writing as one of the most learned women graduate. My hopes were dashed as the first course of anatomy unveiled at Penn. While Francis Bacon said “knowledge is power,” I have learned itself as a sinister plot to cripple my ego and rob my soul for it demand- that knowledge coupled with wisdom is most powerful. With a few small ed memorization of an endless stream of facts; reasoning from first prin- changes, the perception of my teaching went from abysmal to amazing. ciples, derivation of solutions, and creativity were my cherished belong- But the molecules, fundamental construct and essence of my teaching ings that seemed to be confiscated at the door. Nausea ensued as elemen- mode have never changed. One may think that having effectively tweaked tary school memories of my agony with bearing my feelings of isolation my system that all my teaching is now consumed with great delight and and despair inflicted by the taunting of students and teachers alike telling gusto. Not true. I still receive a variety of comments often each contra- me that I was “stupid” because I could not spell or memorize addition ta- dictory. “Dr. Furth’s lectures are poorly organized.” “Dr. Furth’s lectures bles engulfed my being. Akin to a religious revelation, I vowed given the are clear and understandable—bravo.” While I still cringe at the nega- chance to teach that I would do so differently. tive comments, I now chuckle at the reams of divergent responses. I have With great excitement and enthusiasm, I began my medical school reached the state of mind I term “teaching existentialism.” When a stu- teaching career. I thought my lectures were great and clinical teaching riv- dent cited and criticized with great indignation my now infrequent spell- eting—I taught from basic principles, I discouraged memorization, I was ing errors, particularly when I sinned by incorrectly using the plural Lat- personable and passionate about the subject manner—I cared. The student in form of a medical term, I simply smiled; I corrected the error so as not evaluations came back and I read their harsh and biting comments which to grate on another Latin nerve but all the while mourning. I fear that this slammed me as a person and my teaching; I secluded myself in my office student missed the big picture and connection. They seemed so focused and cried. I dissected and gulped each and every comment: “Her beeper is on such an absurd aspect that I wonder if they actually learned anything. too loud.” “She needs to have more detailed lecture handouts.” “Dr. Furth In the past I would have cried for me in my office but now instead I grieve needs to cut down on handouts and save trees.” “Her jokes are lame.” As for their loss. As my career continues with my being equipped with matu- my clinical duties and training require being seated at the microscope and rity, wisdom, and a good dash of a sense of humor, I am better able to put I being a person in need of not only constant intellectual stimulation but into perspective criticism such that I may continually be amazed and en- as well physical movement, one trainee exuded disdain for my inability to thralled by my journey.

Dr. Emma E. Furth is a professor of pathology and laboratory medicine at HUP and was a recipient of the Lindback Award in 2006.

This essay continues the series that began in the fall of 1994 as the joint creation of the College of Arts and Sciences and the Lindback Society for Distinguished Teaching. See www.upenn.edu/almanac/teach/teachall.html for the previous essays. 12 www.upenn.edu/almanac ALMANAC November 24, 2009