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The campus community biweekly June 17, 2004, vol. 4, no. 12 NSF funds All the world's a stage ... LIGO public education

The National Science Foundation has Noted Caltech announced a $5 million, five-year coop­ geologist dies erative agreement with Caltech and its partners in educational outreach to estab­ lish an Educational Outreach Center as an Robert Phillip Sharp, a leading authority on integral part of the NSF-funded Laser the surfaces of Earth and Mars, the long­ Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Obser­ time head of Caltech's geological sciences vatory (LIGO) in Livingston, Louisiana. division, and an alum, died May 25 at his The center will support programs home in Santa Barbara. He was 92. that communicate LIGO-related science Though Sharp was a renowned geolo­ concepts to the public, strengthen re­ gist in his own right, his most significant gional science teaching, and reach a role was arguably his modernization of broad audience of students in Louisiana Caltech's earth-science programs during and beyond. a time of unparalleled progress in human­ The project brings together research kind's knowledge of its own planet and of scientists from the LIGO Livingston Ob­ other worlds. Known for hiring top people, servatory, Caltech, and MIT as well as he had a strong interest in creating new educators from Southern University in interdisciplinary approaches to take advan­ Baton Rouge, the Louisiana Systemic tage of-the dawning age of manned and Initiatives, and the Exploratorium of San unmanned planetary exploration. Francisco. These partners provide exper­ Particularly noteworthy were Sharp's tise specific to LIGO science, experience support of planetary science as a vehicle in exhibit development, connections to for extending geological research to teacher development, and access to a other planets, and his contributions to­ statewide community of public schools. ward creating the field of geochemistry­ The five-year project plan includes a especially important in the interpretation series of 38 Exploratorium interactive With Beckman Auditorium's white facade rising behind him, Ben Rosen '54, chairman of the Caltech see Sharp, page 6 exhibits designed to engage a broad Board of Trustees, presides over the Institute's 110th Commencement, held on June 11 . Carly Fiorina, spectrum of learners by demonstrating chairman and CEO of HP, delivered the commencement address to the more than 530 students who physical-science principles related to received their degrees that day. For more graduation photos, see page 5. LIGO science. The project will draw upon Family fun at Caltech­ the Exploratorium's expertise in using exhibits as an engaging curriculum for Staff will feel the JPL Dodger Day students and visitors. Direct detection of gravitational radia­ love at gala Dust off those baseball caps, polish those tion, the ripples in space-time produced Louisville Sluggers, and head for Dodger by distant cosmic cataclysms, is one of Delectable vittles hot off the grill, games, Stadium, because Caltech-JPL Dodger the most exciting pursuits under way in great prizes, and the chance to be served Day is almost upon us! Caltech commu­ experimental physics, says Barry Barish, by apron-clad professors and administra­ nity members, along with their friends LIGO director and Linde Professor of tors-all this and more awaits at" A Fair Revel returns to and family, are invited to go out to the Physics at Caltech. "The potential payoffs to Remember," the Institute's first-ever ball game on Saturday, August 21, to are magnificent. Messenger gravitational gala in celebration of staff. deanship watch as the Dodgers face off against the waves may reveal secrets central to On Tuesday, June 29, from 11 a.m. to Atlanta Braves. many questions of great interest to astro­ 1:30 p.m., all staff members are invited to Jean-Paul Revel, the Ruddock Professor of This is the third year that the Institute physicists, such as mechanisms describ­ the Beckman Mall and Beckman Institute Biology at Caltech, has announced that he has sponsored a day at the ball park, and ing the coalescence of binary neutron courtyard for food and fun. According to will continue in his post as dean of stu­ it's also the best value. In addition to the stars, the collision of black holes, and the Dlorah Gonzales of Human Resources, a dents, abandoning earlier stated plans to discounted tickets ($4 per person, down remnant gravitational wave signals from number of faculty and administration step down at the end of the spring term. from $8 last year), the day at the stadium the early universe." members have already signed up to "Because of the serious illness of my will offer a kid-friendly carnival beginning The Educational Outreach Center will serve barbecue lunches and ice cream wife, I had decided to retire in June, so I at 11 a.m., and the match between two of reinforce public understanding of basic bars-turning the tables and waiting on could stay home more," Revel said. "But the hottest National League teams at 1:10 scientific principles. According to LIGO their employees for the day. she got worse much faster than antici­ p.m. Free rally towels will be passed out deputy director Stan Whitcomb, it will "And that's as it should be," she says, pated." Revel's wife, Galina, who had at the event to every ticket holder, cour­ help people understand how they can "because this occasion is all about staff been battling cancer, passed away on tesy of the Caltech Credit Union, a co­ easily explore fundamental science con­ and showing how much Caltech appreci­ April 24. sponsor of the event. cepts. "People who visit the center will ates them." He said he received much needed sup­ Tickets will be available at the Public learn how these concepts relate to and Lunch will be available throughout the port from the campus community during Events ticket office, the Tech Express, the lead to cutting-edge scientific research event, and live bands will provide a fes­ this time of crisis, and this was one of the Caltech Bookstore, and Human Resources; endeavors. The center will help us reach tive backdrop for the various activities. factors that prompted his return. at the JPL store and the Credit Union office and inspire educators and families who Individuals and teams will be able to "I appreciate the expressions of sym­ at JPL; and at the main Caltech Credit are teaching the nation's future scientists compete in a balloon toss, sack race, and pathy that I received," he said. "It was Union office, 528 Foothill Boulevard, in La and engineers." other contests. Those blessed with the really wonderful to hear from so many Canada Flintridge. For more information, NSF program director Beverly Berger Betty Crocker touch can bring their best friends, colleagues, and students, even call Human Resources customer service at says this educational collaboration is pies, cakes, or cookies to be judged by though it was a terrible way to come to (626) 395-3300. distinctive. "We are pleased to see this chefs Andre Mallie of Dining Services realize all these feelings were there. • see LIGO, page 6 see Staff gala, page 6 see Revel, page 6 2 Caltech 336, June 17, 2004

Honors and awards

Sunney Chan, Hoag Professor of Biophysical NewsBriefs Chemistry, Emeritus, has received the William C. Rose Award, presented during the annual meet­ ing of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology / International Union of Bio­ Student Tamara Becher '04 chemistry and Molecular Biology, in Boston, June and Hubert the skeleton 12-16. The award recognizes " his outstanding watch as James Boyk, contributions to biochemical and molecular Gender equity lecturer in electrical biological research and his demonstrated com­ engineering/ music, listens mitment to the training of younger scientists." A and Caltech's to a sample recording on member of the Caltech faculty since 1963, Chan Becher's website from the has served as executive officer for chemistry and academic climate "Projects in Music and as master of student houses. He received his BS Science" course. Her and PhD from UC Berkeley, in 1957 and 1961, project was to develop a respectively. David Baltimore microphone for recording In January 2001, I signed on behalf of binaural sound, which is Mory Gharib, Liepmann Professor of Aeronau­ sound intended to be heard tics and Bioengineering, has been selected by the Caltech a Statement on Gender Equity in via headphones instead of Technion, the Israel Institute of Technology, for its Academic Science and Engineering, along speakers. Boyk uses Hubert 2004-05 Pollak distinguished lecturer award. Two with the presidents of eight of our peer to help piano students Pollak Lecturers are chosen each year for the institutions: MIT, the University of Michi­ improve mental Israel Pollak Distinguished Lecture Series, from gan, Princeton, Stanford, Yale, UC Berkeley, conceptualization and all areas of science and engineering. Gharib physical use of their bodies. received his BS from Teheran University in 1976, Harvard, and the University of Pennsylva­ his MS from Syracuse University in 1978, and his nia. The pledge calls for all our institutions PhD from Caltech in 1983. He joined Caltech as to meet the challenge of increasing the professor of aeronautics in 1992, becoming proportion of women in science and engi­ Liepmann Professor in 2002. neering in the United States, and to remove Peter Goldreich, DuBridge Professor of Astro­ the barriers that still exist to the full partici­ physics and Planetary Physics, Emeritus, has pation of women in these fields. The focus been elected a Foreign Member by the Royal is on faculty issues because everyone Society, which cited him and his close collabora­ agreed that dealing with gender discrepan­ tors for " several seminal contributions to an cies at the faculty level will help the situa­ New positions unparalleled range of topics in planetary science Personals and theoretical astrophysics, including spiral tion at all levels. Elizabeth Allen, new-media specialist and arms in galaxies and planetary rings and the The statement outlines three goals. The Welcome to Caltech Macintosh systems administrator in Caltech's explanation of white dwarf oscillations." Estab­ first is a faculty whose gender diversity re­ Digital Media Center since July 2001 , has been lished in England in 1660, the society is the flects that of the students we educate, the May appointed communications coordinator for the world's oldest scientific academy in continuous second is to give female faculty a larger role Alumni Association, effective July 19. Prior to existence. A member of the Caltech faculty since Milagro Arias, housekeeper, Athenaeum; Blake joining Caltech she served at her alma mater, 1966, Gold reich received his BS and PhD from in university life, and the third is to better Buchanan, technical aide, materials science; Scripps College, as a computer consultant and Cornell University, in 1960 and 1963, respectively. support individuals with family responsibili­ David Chang, postdoctoral scholar in biology; consultant supervisor. She is also experienced ties. We all agreed to meet periodically and John Clinton, assistant scientist, Seismological with graphic design and studio art. She will be Hiroo Kanamori, Smits Professor of Geophysics, review our progress. For Caltech, the gen­ Laboratory; Lucita Dimaculangan, cash man­ working with the Alumni Association's new has been selected as a recipient of the 2004 Japan der-equity pledge was followed by more agement analyst, Financial Services; Danny website and various mailings and publications. Academy Prize, which is awarded " for exceptional Estrada, catering coordinator, Dining Services; works and other scientific achievements." The comprehensive findings and recommenda­ Kristen Forman, medical doctor, Health Center; Gail Anderson, manager of electronic media prize includes a medal and a monetary award of tions issued in December 2001 by the Com­ Laura Glover, cashier, Caltech Bookstore; publications (EMP). has been named director of 1 million yen, with the presentation scheduled for mittee on the Status of Women Faculty at Kristina Hilands, administrative assistant, EMP and w ill now report directly to the vice June 14, w ith the emperor an d empress of Japan Caltech. This month, the Task Force on Gen­ biology; Juan Lozano, postdoctora l scholar in president for public relations. EMP maintains the in attendance . A professor at Caltech since 1972, der and Academic Climate, which focused materials science; Antoine Nicholson, guest main Caltech website as well as the online publi­ Kanamori was director of the Seismological Labo­ relations coordinator, Athenaeum; Philippe cation Caltech Today and other PR websites and ratory from 1990 to 1998. He received his BS and on gender issues at the graduate level, pre­ Rossinot, postdoctoral scholar in physics; databases, and assists other campus groups in his PhD from the University of Tokyo, in 1959 and sented its set of findings and recommenda­ Magnolia Sabanpan, administrative assistant, designing and implementing Institute-level 1964, respectively. tions to me and to the Faculty Board. chemistry; Ghiwa Sabih, research technician, websites. Anderson received her master's degree What progress has Caltech made? What in English from the University of Aberdeen in chemistry; Maria Sdrolias, visitor in geophysics; are our central challenges? Daniel Sellers, operations specialist, LIGO; Scotland, and joined Caltech as manager of EMP Caltech has made progress in a number Robbie Spencer, department assistant, Campus in 2003. Employee Cooksey Life; Virginia Stratford, office support, Student­ perishes in blizzard of areas. In 2001-02, women constituted 10.7 Faculty Programs; Robert Thompson, staff Petr Vogel will become senior research associ­ percent of the faculty. This academic year, scientist, Michelson Science Center; Sandra ate in physics, emeritus, effective July 1. He women constitute 12.3 percent of the faculty, Villagomez, guest relations coordinator, received his PhD from the Joint Institute of The body of Caltech employee Wade Cooksey an increase of five women (from 30 to 35). In Athenaeum; Marcus Williams, data entry tech­ Nuclear Research (USSR) in 1966 and joined was recovered from a mountainous region of nicia n, Dining Services; Timothy Winkler, Caltech's research facu lty in 1970. He also served northern Nevada on May 31 , more than two this last year, two of eight new faculty re­ months after he was first reported missing. construction laborer, Owens Valley Radio Obser­ as a lecturer in physics for many years. cruits were women. In the specific fields of vatory. Cooksey, a geodetic technician in Caltech's science and engineering, women constitute geological and planetary sciences division since Deaths 11 percent of Caltech faculty. Across the nine June 1999, was working on the summit of Mount Lewis, elevation 9,600 feet, approximately 18 miles south­ institutions that signed the gender-equity Norman Keidel, a former manager of Central east of Battle Mountain, Nevada. He was repairing pledge, the proportion of women in these Joline Gosselin, staff assistant, Athenaeum; Engineering Services, died on May 30; he was 77. a communications system used to recover Global Craig Hokanson, research assistant, and Sarah He had retired in 1995, after 29 years at Caltech. fields today ranges from 11 percent to a high Positioning System data from remote geodetic May, assistant lab manager, both in biology; "As manager, Norm fought hard for Central of 14 percent at the University of Michigan. sites throughout north central Nevada. Caltech William Umali, gift and endowment accountant, Engineering Services and the men and women owns and operates 53 such sites across eastern In contrast, a decade ago, women consti­ Fi nancial Services. that worked here," said Mike Gerfen, the California, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona, for studying tuted 6 to 8 percent of the science and engi­ department's current manager, who worked with subtle motions of the earth's crust. neering faculties in these same institutions. July Keidel for many years. "He was extremely fair, According to the Lander County Sheriff's but very determined when he made a decision Therefore our progress is in line with the Department, Cooksey became caught in a white­ Jacob Goeree has been appointed professor of regarding an action with the personnel under him experiences at our peer institutions. out snowstorm on March 5 that reduced visibility economics, effective July 1. Noted for his econo­ or the managers over him. He was not intimi­ to less than five feet. The department launched an In the past three years, the Institute has metric skills, he has published in the top econom­ dated." Keidel also had a tender side, he said- exhaustive search of the mountain, using a Navy doubled the number of named chairs held ics and political-science journals and is widely " some would say he was a pussycat. He would helicopter, four-wheel-drive vehicles, dog teams, by female faculty from three to six, in­ regarded to be in a class by himself as an experi­ do whatever he could to help someone." Gerfen snowmobiles, and searchers on foot. mentalist who is also broadly trained as a theo­ added, "His mechanical aptitude and problem­ creased the number of women appointed as Services for Cooksey were held June 5. rist. He received his BS and PhD (in theoretical solving skills were exceptional, as was his chess executive officers in their divisions, and physics) from the University of Utrecht, in 1989 game." Keidel is survived by his wife, Margery; appointed the first women in the positions of and 1993, respectively, and his BA and PhD (in his daughter, Leslie; two grandchildren; and a division chair, vice president for student economics) from the University of Amsterdam, in sister, Ruth. Graduating students 1994 and 1997, respectively. affairs, and director of the Beckman Institute. Josephine Kennedy, an administrative secre­ receive Fulbrights The academic divisions have pursued new Andrea Mattozzi has been appointed assistant tary to three former Caltech presidents, died on recruitment efforts to increase the pool of professor of economics, effective July 1. Known May 21 ; she was 89. She worked for Lee Seniors Rachel Medwood and Suzana Sburlan female candidates and have implemented for both his theoretical and empirical research, he DuBridge from 1946 to 1952, then returned to the have received Fulbright Fellowships for the 2004- mentoring and tracking programs for junior w orks primarily in the field of political economy Institute in 1965, taking a position in Develop­ 05 academic year. Sponsored by the U.S. govern­ faculty. We have established a Child-Care with connections to both finance and public ment. Transferring back to the President's Office, ment, the prestigious Fulbright Program provides economics. Though due to receive his PhD from she worked for Harold Brown and Marvin grants for scholars and professionals from the Assistance Fund for faculty, staff, and stu­ the University of Pennsylvania this year, he is Goldberger. She retired in 1985. She was known United States and other countries to pursue dents to aid in child-care costs. And, in May, already noted for a job-market paper that has as an accomplished pianist, cook, gardener, graduate study, research, and teaching abroad. the Faculty Board approved a maternity provided an explanation for the differences be­ craftsperson, entertainer, and conversationalist, Medwood, an economics major, will enroll in a leave policy for graduate students. tween the United States and Western Europe in and "her smile, warmth, and humor will be master's program at the University of Amsterdam Yet the rate of progress is still slow, and demand for redistributive policies. He received missed by her daughters and many friends who on the economics of international patent law. his BA from Bocconi University in 1997. treasured her. " She is survived by her daughters, Sburlan, who received bachelor's and master's serious challenges lie ahead. Attending the Patty and Barbara. degrees in applied physics this month, will con­ most recent meeting ofthe nine institutions duct research at the Institute de Ciencia de this spring, I was very disturbed to hear that Materiales de Madrid in Spain, joining a team at the current rate of progress in hiring and that will study in vivo molecular imaging. see Baltimore, page 6 the acad em ic week at Ca It ec h is a printed version of selected events from the online master calendar. http://today.caltech.edu/calendar/. To publish events online, register as an event planner on the Caltech Today calendar. If unable to submit electronically, please call (626) 395-3630. For further information or a schedule of deadlines, call (626) 395-3630, fax (626) 449-2159, write 336 Calendar, 1-71 , California

Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, or e-mail [email protected].

June 21-September 26, 2004

1- Cl)

Monday, June 21 Monday, July 5 Friday, August 20

Thesis Seminar Independence Day holiday Von Karman Lecture Series 106 Spalding Lab, Hartley Memorial Pasadena City College, 1570 E. Colorado, Seminar Room, 2 p.m.-"Methods the Vosloh Forum (south of Colorado on for Collection and Processing of Gene Bonnie), 7 p.m.-"The Orbiting Carbon Expression Data," John Murphy, gradu­ Tuesday, July 6 Observatory: Understanding Atmo­ ate student in chemical engineering, spheric C02 and Its Impact on Climate Caltech. Information Science and Change," Charles Miller, Orbiting Carbon Technology Seminar Observatory Deputy Principal Investiga­ 080 Moore, 2 p.m.- "CLAMP: Maximiz­ tor, JPL. Admission is free. Information: ing the Performance of TCP over Wire­ www.jpl.nasa.gov/lecture. Tuesday, June 22 less Links," Dr. Stephen Hanly, Centre for Ultra-Broadband Information Net­ 17th Annual Liepmann Ludwieg works, Melbourne University. Informa­ Seminar tion: http://netlab.caltech .edu/semi nar. Monday, September 6 101 Guggenheim Lab, Lees-Kubota Lecture Hall, 9 a.m. to 3:45p.m.­ Institute for Quantum Information Labor Day holiday Introductions will be made by Hans Seminar Hornung, Johnson Professor of Aero­ 74 Jorgensen, 3 p.m.-" Proposal for a nautics, Caltech. Speakers are from the Loophole-Free Bell Test Using Homodyne DLR Research Center. Closing remarks Detection," Nicolas Cerf, University of Friday, September 10 will be made by Hans Liepmann, von Brussels. Karman Professor of Aeronautics, Emeri­ 6th Annual PhD/Postdoc Career tus, Caltech. Attendance is free. Registra­ Conference tion: 395-4751 or [email protected]. Beckman Institute auditorium, 8 a.m. edu. Information: www.galcit.caltech. Thursday, July 15 to 5:30 p.m.- This conference provides edu/Seminars/LLS/IIs04.html. graduate students and postdoctoral Von Karman Lecture Series scholars an opportunity to explore General Biology Seminar JPL, von Karman Auditorium, 7 p.m.­ career topics of interest. In addition to 119 Kerckhoff, 4 p.m.-"RNAi: Ancient "The Rings of Saturn," Dr. Linda Spilker, informational panels, attendees will also Pathways Programmed by Small RNA." Cassini Deputy Project Scientist, JPL. have the opportunity to network with Professor Phillip Zamore, department of Admission is free. Information: www.jpl. Caltech alums and panel guests during biochemistry and molecular pharmacol­ nasa.gov/lectu re. lunch and a closing reception. The key­ ogy, University of Massachusetts Medi­ note speaker will be Alyson Reed, presi- cal School. dent of the National Post doc Association, speaking on trends in science. lnforma- Information Science and Friday, July 16 tion and registration: www.career.caltech. Technology Seminar edu, 395-4167, or [email protected]. 74 Jorgensen, 4 p.m.-" An Autonomous Von Karman Lecture Series Molecular Computer for Logical Control Pasadena City College, 1570 E. Colorado, of Gene Expression," Yaakov (Kobi) the Vosloh Forum (south of Colorado on Benenson, Weizmann Institute of Bonnie), 7 p.m.-"The Rings of Saturn," Thursday, September 16 Science, Rehovot, Israel. Information: Dr. Linda Spilker, Cassini Deputy Project http:/ /net Ia b.ca Itech .ed u/sem ina r/. Scientist, JPL. Admission is free. lnfor- Von Karman Lecture Series mation: www.jpl.nasa.gov/lecture. JPL, von Karman Auditorium, 7 p.m.­ "Catching a Piece of the Sun: The Gen­ esis Sample Return Mission," Donald Sweetnam, Genesis Project Manager, Thursday, August 19 JPL. Admission is free. Information: www.jpl.nasa.gov/lecture. Von Karman Lecture Series JPL, von Karman Auditorium, 7 p.m.­ "The Orbiting Carbon Observatory:

Understanding Atmospheric C02 and Friday, September 17 Its Impact on Climate Change," Charles Miller, Orbiting Carbon Observatory Von Karman Lecture Series Deputy Principal Investigator, JPL. Pasadena City College, 1570 E. Colorado, Admission is free. Information: www. the Vosloh Forum (south of Colorado on jpl.nasa.gov/lectu re. Bonnie), 7 p.m.-"Catching a Piece of the Sun: The Genesis Sample Return Mission," Donald Sweetnam, Genesis Project Manager, JPL. Admission is free. Information: www.jpl.nasa.gov/lecture. CampusEvents

Tuesday, June 22 Wednesday, July 14 Thursday, July 29 Project Management: An Approach Laboratory Safety 101 Reinventing Yourself Weekly events Brown Gym classroom, 8:30a.m. to 4:30p.m.­ 118 Keith Spalding Building, 3 p.m.- This course Brown Gym classroom, 8:30a.m. to 12:30 p.m.­ This class will present methods to streamline is designed to prepare incoming researchers to This class for supervisors and nonsupervisors will through the summer project planning and management. Registration: work in a laboratory at the Institute. Issues in­ teach ways to redirect thinking, overcome nega­ 395-8055 or [email protected]. clude laboratory organization, emergencies, tive behavior, and acquire skills necessary to injuries, general laboratory safety, and more. achieve success. Registration: 395-8055 or diane. Space is limited. Please call 395-6727 or e-mail [email protected]. Mondays, June 21 [email protected] to reserve a place. to August 2 Thursday, June 24 Lindy Hop (Swing) Classes Caltech Architectural Tours Tuesday, August 1 0 Winnett lounge, 8:30 p.m.- A series of eight Athenaeum, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.-Meet in the Sunday, July 18 Lindy Hop lessons, professionally taught. The entry hall of the Athenaeum. Led by members of Amnesty International Letter Writing first class took place on June 14. No partner or the Caltech Architectural Tour Service. Reserva­ Amnesty International Book Discussion See Tuesday, July 13, for details. previous dance experience is required. The cost tions: Susan Lee, 395-6327 or [email protected]. Group for Caltech students and SURF students is $6 per Vroman's Bookstore, 695 E. Colorado Boulevard, class, $40 for the series; for nonstudents, the cost Women's Wellness Series: Travel Health and second floor, 6:30p.m.- This month's book, is $8 per class, $56 for the series. Refreshments. Well ness Blood Diamonds by Greg Campbell, is about how Sunday, August 15 Caltech Women's Center, noon-" Get Ready, Set, diamond smuggling led to a rebel war that effec­ GO! Travel Health and Wellness," presented by tively destroyed the nation of Sierra Leone. Spon­ Amnesty International Book Discussion Dr. Marlene Coleman, attending physician at sored by Caltech/Pasadena AI Group 22. Visit Group Caltech's Archibald Young Student Health Center Group 22 at www.its.caltech.edu/-aigp22. Vroman's Bookstore, 695 E. Colorado Boulevard, Tuesdays, June 22 and author of Safe and Sound: Healthy Travel second floor, 6:30p.m.-This month's book has to September 21 with Children. Dr. Coleman shares her expertise not yet been determined. Sponsored by Caltech/ and provides advice for healthy and safe travel Pasadena AI Group 22. Visit Group 22 at www.its. Preschool Playgroup for women on the go. Registration: wcenter@ Monday, July 19 caltech.edu/-a igp22. Tournament Park, 10 a.m. to noon-Song and studaff.caltech.edu . storytime, crafts and free play for toddlers and Standard First-Aid/CPR preschoolers (from walking to age 4). Informa­ Amnesty International Monthly Meeting Brown Gym classroom, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.­ tion: 584-0970. Caltech Y lounge, 7:30 p.m.-Caltech/Pasadena Standard first-aid and CPR training will be offered Thursday, August 26 AI Group 22 holds its monthly meeting to discuss by Caltech's Safety Office in conjunction with the Caltech Tai Chi Club current activities and plans. All are welcome. American Red Cross. Fee: $25 for materials. Amnesty International Monthly Meeting Winnett lounge, 7 p.m.-Sessions are free. Infor­ Refreshments. Information: (818) 354-4461 or Registration: 395-6727 or safety. training@ See Thursday, June 24, for details. mation: www.its.caltech.edu/-taichi/. Also meets [email protected]. caltech.edu. on Fridays.

Wednesday, September 1 Monday, July 5 Tuesday, July 20 Wednesdays, June 23 Techniques for Identifying and Correcting Independence Day holiday Adult, Child, and Infant First-Aid and CPR Mistakes in Written Communication to September 22 Training Brown Gym classroom, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.­ Baby Furniture and Household Equipment Credit Union Closure Brown Gym classroom, 7:30 a.m. to noon­ This class, intended for supervisors and 234 S. Catalina, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.-Available All branches of the Caltech Employees Federal Offered by Caltech's Safety Office in conjunction nonsupervisors, will employ writing assignments by appointment only; call 395-6174. Loans of Credit Union will be closed in observance of the with the American Red Cross. Fee: $30 for materi­ to train participants to identify common typo­ kitchen and household necessities and baby Independence Day holiday. als. This is a two-day class; to receive certifica­ graphical and character errors; find and correct furniture are made to members of the Caltech tion, you must attend today and on Thursday, grammatical, punctuation, and spelling errors; community. Information: 584-9773. July 22. Registration: 395-6727 or safety. and use proofreading marks. This is the third in a [email protected]. series of three classes. Registration: 395-8055 or Wednesdays in the Park Wednesday, July 7 [email protected]. Information: http:// Tournament Park, 10 a.m. to noon-Every cit. h r.ca ltech. ed u/Ed ucation/su per&non_su per/ Wednesday there's conversation and coffee for Emergency Preparedness Training correcti ng_m istakes. htm. parents and caregivers, and playtime and snacks 118 Keith Spalding Building, 3 p.m.- This course Wednesday, July 21 for children. Information: 403-7163 or will describe the campus emergency operations [email protected]. plan, including information about the emergency CPRJAED Recertification operations center, evacuation, fire prevention Brown Gym classroom, 7:30 a.m. to noon­ Monday, September 6 and protection techniques, behavioral principles Offered by Caltech's Safety Office in conjunction during an emergency, and personal prepared­ with the American Red Cross. There is a small Labor Day holiday ness. Reservations: 395-6727 or safety.training@ fee for materials. Information and registration: Fridays, June 25 caltech.edu. 395-6727 or [email protected]. Credit Union Closure to September 24 All branches of the Caltech Employees Federal CPRJAED Recertification Credit Union will be closed in observance of the Caltech Tai Chi Club Brown Gym classroom, 1 to 5 p.m.-Offered by Labor Day holiday. Winnett lounge, 7 p.m.-Sessions are free. Infor­ Friday, July 9 Caltech's Safety Office in conjunction with the mation: www.its.caltech.edu/- taichi/. Also meets American Red Cross. There is a small fee for on Tuesdays. Fire-Extinguisher Training materials. Information and registration: 395-6727 Wilson Avenue North Parking Structure, roof, or [email protected]. Tuesday, September 14 Meeting dates: 11 a.m.-This class will teach basic fire safety June 25 and include hands-on training on how to use a Amnesty International Letter Writing July 2 fire extinguisher. Class size is limited; please call See Tuesday, July 13, for details. July 23 395-6727 or e-mail [email protected] to Thursday, July 22 July 30 reserve a place. August 6 Amnesty International Monthly Meeting August 13 See Thursday, June 24, for details. August 20 Sunday, September 19 August 27 Tuesday, July 13 Amnesty International Book Discussion September 3 Group September 1 0 Amnesty International Letter Writing Friday, July 23 Vroman's Bookstore, 695 E. Colorado Boulevard, September 17 Athenaeum Rathskeller, 7:30 p.m .-Caltech/ second floor, 6:30 p.m.-This month's book has September 24 Pasadena AI Group 22 will host an informal Standard First-Aid/CPR not yet been determined. Sponsored by Caltech/ meeting to write letters on human-rights abuses See Monday, July 19, for details. Pasadena AI Group 22. Visit Group 22 at www.its. around the world. All are welcome. Refresh­ caltech .ed u/-a i gp22. ments. Information: (818) 354-4461 or lkamp@ lively.jpl.nasa.gov. Visit our website at www.its. ca Ite ch. ed u/ - a ig p22. Caltech 336, June 17, 2004 5 Caltech's 11 Oth annual commencement

The canopy of dazzling blue sky overhead seemed to reflect soaring spirits as Caltech's degree candidates lined up for their moment in the sun on June 11. Many elements of the Institute's 11 Oth com­ mencement were reliably familiar: the prelude by alum and organist Les Deutsch and processional by the Convocations Brass and Percussion En­ semble, conducted by Allen Gross; the chairman of the Board of Trustees, Ben Rosen, presiding; the applause, cheers, and intermittent clashing gong as candidates crossed the stage; and the singing of the alma mater, "Hail CIT." Distinctive to this year's ceremony were the moments of silence in memory of former U.S. president Ronald Reagan and the late Caltech alum and benefactor Arnold Beckman, who died May 18 at age 104; "There's Just One!", with lyrics sung to the tune of the traditional "Hallelujah Cho­ rus"; and commencement speaker Carly Fiorina, the chair and chief executive officer of HP. As President David Baltimore addressed the newly minted grads for the last time, here­ minded them of their achievement as Caltech alums and the unique duty they are now equipped to fill, in standing for truth in the face of political pressure and in helping Americans un­ derstand the value of science and technology. He wished them happiness and fulfillment as he sent them off to make their mark in the world. Video footage of Commencement 2004 and a Graduates await their turn on stage. copy of the program, listing all graduates and award winners, can be viewed at http:// pr.caltech.edu/commencement/04. •

Above: Streamers drift down on the assembled graduates and audience at the commencement ceremony's finale. Left: I ram Parveen Bilal (right) graduates with a degree in engineering and applied science, with honors, and Jordan Lee Boyd-Graber with degrees in the fields of computer science and history, also with honors.

Counterclockwise from above: Caltech president David Baltimore addresses the assembly. Zeinab Mousavi graduates with a bachelor's in electrical engineering, with honors. In full academic regalia (from left), Scott Fraser, Rosen Professor of Biology; Michelle Effros, associate professor of electrical engineering; and Sossina Haile, associate professor of materials science and chemical engineering, join the procession of faculty to Beckman Mall. Camera-toting family members make like amateur paparazzi to document the special day.

Above: Undergraduates gather in front of Parsons-Gates Hall for a portrait before heading to Beckman Mall. Left: In her speech, commencement speaker Carly Fiorina said that for science and technology to solve the problems that plague humankind, the graduates have the responsibility to act according to their values and to throw off the veil of anonymity that science affords them. 6 Caltech 336, June 17, 2004

Sharp, from page 1 L/GO, from page 1 Baltimore. from page 2 of lunar samples that began at Caltech in In 1958 he was profiled by Sports Illus­ unique partnership develop among re­ tenure, it could take 60 years or more for 1970. Sharp was also closely involved trated among 25 former gridiron stars search scientists, museum educators, women to reach parity with men in the fac­ with NASA in the 1960s as an interpreter who had gone on to significant careers. formal educators, and networks of local ulty ranks in science, math, and engineering. of the Mariner imagery from Mars. At the time one of Caltech's "ablest, educators from the Livingston region," A key factor is the departure of women from In a 1991 Pasadena Star-News article most popular teachers," the 165-pound she says. "Together, they will make con­ the pipeline at every stage of the scientific on Caltech's centennial celebration, Sharp lamented having been sacked so nections between science, the research at career: in the transitions from undergradu­ Sharp recalled hearing from a Mariner many times toward the end of his college LIGO, and the surrounding community." ate to graduate school, graduate school to technician that the newly returned im­ days due to temporary rule changes that The partnership between researchers postdoctoral fellowship, and postdoctoral ages showed the presence of a lake. weighted the game "in favor of brute and educators creates a national model positions to the professoriate, and within the Telling the technician that a lake on Mars force." He remarked that football had for how universities, school districts, and professoriate as well. At all ofthese nodes, it was absurd, he saw that the ripples the served to show him that, as a scientist, informal learning environments can work seems that women are leaving science, technician had viewed on the imagery he needed "to be determined as hell and together to motivate student and teacher engineering, and mathematics careers at a were actually sand dunes. "That was the that there is a certain poise and aggres­ learning, and support inquiry-based higher rate than their male counterparts. beauty of it for me," Sharp said. "Astro­ siveness that is desirable." teaching and learning practices. It is clear that some of the fault lies with physicists, engineers, and computer After earning his BS and MS at Caltech, According to the Exploratorium's the difficulties and biases that female stu­ guys, and they need this dumb ol', dirty in 1934 and 1935 respectively, Sharp re­ Bronwyn Bevan, the Center for Informal dents and scholars face in our academic fingernail geologist like me!" ceived his PhD in geology from Harvard in Learning and Schools (CILS), an NSF­ environments. Unfortunately, these difficul­ In 1989, Sharp received America's high­ 1938. From 1938 to 1943 he worked in the funded center for learning and teaching ties and biases are as present at Caltech as est scientific honor, the National Medal University of Illinois geology department, at the Exploratorium, will share this part­ elsewhere. In response to the Graduate of Science, for having "illuminated the and then served in the U.S. Army Air nership model with a broad range of Student Council and Women in Engineering, nature and origin of the forms and forma­ Forces for two years. A University of Min­ museums, universities, and school sys­ Science, and Technology survey on quality­ tion processes of planetary surfaces, and nesota faculty member from 1945 to 1947, tems collaborating in CILS. "This project of-life issues, the Task Force on Gender and for teaching two generations of scientists he then returned to Caltech as a professor, allows us to explore, in particular, the Academic Climate, cochaired by Professor and laymen to appreciate them." The chairing the division from 1952 to 1968. potential of informal science institutions John Bercaw and Vice President Margo White House also cited Sharp for having Sharp retired to emeritus status in for creating windows into the world of Marshak, found that "a collection of underly­ built Caltech's multidisciplinary Division 1979 but remained active, participating in cutting edge science research." ing behavior and attitudes concerning gen­ of Geological and Planetary Sciences. frequent field trips to geological locales LIGO's Local Educator Network at der has made productive life on campus Among Sharp's numerous other hon­ with students, alumni, and other Caltech Livingston Observatory, established in difficult for many graduate students." The ors were being named by Life magazine community members. Predeceased by 2002, will involve participant educators task force "concluded that primary responsi­ as one of 10 outstanding U.S. college his wife, Jean Todd Sharp, he is survived from Louisiana and Mississippi in each bility for correcting this situation belongs to teachers in 1950; the Geological Society of by two children, Kristin and Bruce. step of the proposed activities: planning, the professorial faculty, who must take an America's Kirk Bryan Award in 1964 and • development, implementation, and active and ongoing role in educating their its Penrose Award-the society's top evaluation. students and research group members" prize-in 1977; and the NASA Exceptional Discussions are in progress with the about inappropriate gender-related behavior Scientific Achievement Award Medal in Revel, from page 1 Louisiana Art and Science Museum in and gender bias. 1971 . Elected to the National Academy of Everybody was so warm and so very Baton Rouge on the collaborative devel­ Academic careers are demanding of Sciences, he also was honored by kind. Becoming aware of this is the silver opment of hands-on LIGO science exhib­ everyone, but such behavior creates Caltech's establishment of the Robert P. lining to a very dark cloud. its and demonstrations. added stresses and obstacles to women's Sharp Professorship in Geology. "I enjoy what I'm doing," he continued. "LIGO-related resources will ulti­ full participation in science and engineer­ His many research activities included "It's nice to work with the students, and mately reach and serve an extensive ing, directly contributing to the "leaky investigations of basin range structure, I thought I still had something to offer." population of lifelong learners," says pipeline" problem. continental basin deposits, mountain and Revel's duties as dean don't end at five Mike Zucker, LIGO Livingston Observa­ In its recommendations, the task force continental glaciation, frozen ground, o'clock, and on the day of commencement tory head. "We are amazed at the level of urges faculty to take a leading role "in erosion surfaces, desert sand dunes, and on June 11-which is probably Revel's interest already demonstrated by people improving the gender climate" on campus; oxygen and hydrogen isotopes in snow busiest day of the year-he was tireless. of all ages in this community. This facility suggests that "a comprehensive education and glacier ice, as well as surface forms On the evening prior, he attended a and related programs will greatly aid us program about gender issues and bias" be and processes on Mars. banquet where he spoke to the graduat­ in serving their educational needs." established with input from the graduate A native of Oxnard, Sharp came to ing seniors, and on the morning of com­ • students; and proposes that "future assess­ Caltech as an undergraduate in 1930, and mencement, he shared breakfast with Pat ments should address the concerns not only was a star quarterback at a time when the Beckman, daughter of Arnold Beckman, of the graduate students but of all members school was a competitive force in football. and the student winners of the Mabel Staff gala, from page 1 of the Caltech community." I wholeheartedly Beckman Prize, which recognizes out­ and Edward Ungrue of the Athenaeum. support these recommendations. standing undergraduate women. Prizes will await winners of both the Gender balance is not the only challenge He then spoke to the trustees, asking games and the baking competition. we face in the area of diversity. Achieving Blood donors needed them to approve granting the members of An information fair will feature repre­ proportional participation by underrepre­ the class of 2004 their bachelor's degrees. sentatives from the Institute's health-care sented minorities in science and engineer­ The City of Hope is again seeking Techers As one of the graduation marshals, providers and various campus depart­ ing is an equally important goal. Here, we w illing to give blood and to have their Revel marched ahead of the degree can­ ments. And last but not least, staff mem­ have little success to report; this is clearly a bone marrow typed for possible future didates and led them to Beckman Mall, bers should be sure to pick up raffle more difficult and demanding disparity to donation. Representatives from COH will where he handed a sheepskin to each tickets, which may pay off with gift cer­ correct than gender imbalance. hold a drive on Tuesday, July 13, from 10 one of the graduating seniors. The com­ tificates for restaurants, a manicure and On all fronts we must dedicate our­ a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Winnett lounge. mencement was followed by photo ses­ pedicure, and other local services; wine selves to the essential task of realizing Ongoing transfusions of blood or plate­ sions with the new graduates and and wine tastings; and more. greater diversity of participation than we lets are vital for patients with cancer and introductions to their families. More information, including how to have been able to achieve thus far. other life-threatening diseases who un­ Asked if he planned to serve as dean preregister for games, will be mailed For the text of any of the reports and dergo chemotherapy, and for some pa­ for another eight years, Revel replied, to staff; they may also call ext. 8661 or statements cited in this essay, see http:// tients, bone marrow transplants may be "Yes, I do plan to continue ... for at least e-mail [email protected]. diversity.caltech.edu. their last lifeline to recovery. 80 more years." • • • • Caltech 336 .. en en .. .. en en ..

The campus community biweekly California Institute of Technology June 17, 2004, vol. 4, no. 12 Pasadena, California 91125

Editor: Daryn Kobata ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED (626) 395-6240; [email protected] Assistant Editor: Javier Marquez (626) 395-6624; [email protected] Calendar Administrator: Debbie Bradbury (626) 395-3630; [email protected] Graphic Artist: Doug Cummings Photographer: Bob Paz Published by the Office of Public Relations