CCSU's Community Engagement Travels Abroad

1 December 2012 COURIER www.ccsu.edu/courier

Vol. 38, No. 2 • December 2012 NEWS FROM CENTRAL CONNECTICUT STATE UNIVERSITY

INSIDE THIS ISSUE 2 These Students Carry Badges

4 Community Central Update on Downtown’s “Go To” Presence

5 Elihu Burritt’s Legacy

6 Student in the Spotlight Ryan Baldassario

7 Student in the Spotlight Liz Braun

11 CCSU Honors Our Veterans

18 Alumni Spotlight On Tour with Chris Leahy ’10 Environmental Geography major Colleen Wetmore interacts with students in Ghana 19 Homecoming 2012 during a 2012 Course Abroad. Celebrating the CCSU Connection CCSU’s Community Engagement Travels Abroad eeing that autistic boy smile was a kind and universities designated a Carnegie Com- “S of happiness a person feels when you munity Engagement Institution by the Carnegie know you have truly helped someone. We cre- Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. ated change, us as volunteers; we helped make And the Institute of International Education a group of children happy for the day. Maybe ranks CCSU among the nation’s top providers we did not change the world, and we could of course abroad/study abroad programs. So not change the entire stigma of special needs in when CCSU students study abroad and become Peru, but for that day, we created change, and engaged with local communities, they create an the feeling was overwhelming.” exceptional force for learning and for making a So wrote Samantha Russell, a social work difference in people’s lives. major, in the journal she kept for a social work Journals kept by CCSU students taking experiential learning course she took in Peru courses in Peru, South Africa, and Ghana offer taught by Professor of Social Work Catherine moving testimony about formidable obstacles Baratta in 2009. people in these countries face with resilience, Community engagement and international grace, and perseverance. And these testimonies education are two areas of CCSU’s distinctive- show how our students are transformed by Published by CCSU’s Office of Marketing ness, and both have been nationally recognized. coming to understand the plurality of cultures, and Communications The University is one of only 115 US colleges traditions, and beliefs at the grassroots level. www.ccsu.edu/courier continued on page 8 2 December 2012 COURIER These Students Carry Badges www.ccsu.edu/courier CCSU and West Hartford Police Collaborate, Offer New Master’s Program Exclusively for Law Enforcement

Left to right: West Hartford police officer and Central alum Rob Riccobon, department chair Chip Tafrate, graduate program director Shamir Ratansi, and West Hartford police chief Tracey Gove meet in the training room at the West Hartford Police Department, site of some of the courses in the new Master’s of Criminal Justice program. hrough a unique collaboration, the Depart- broader view of the job, and a high level of pro- Tment of Criminology and Criminal Justice fessionalism,” said department chair Raymond has teamed up with the West Hartford Police “Chip” Tafrate. Department to offer a specialized master’s “This is a unique program that may represent degree program tailored exclusively for law- a new model for graduate education,” Tafrate enforcement professionals. said of the collaboration. “This may be the wave The program covers key topics in criminal of the future for busy professionals who wish to justice, as well as specialized areas such as police earn a graduate degree.” administration and organizational leadership, West Hartford Police Chief Tracey Gove, budget management, and best practices for whose 131-officer police department is one of the responding to and preventing crime. Organizers largest in Connecticut, realized his officers, and said this may be the first program of its kind in others, wanted to further their education, but the nation. had few options that would meet their particular “West Hartford and other communities job demands and career goals. want police who are well-rounded, with a “We wanted a curriculum that would serve officers in the field,” Gove said. “This is about enhancing ourselves as leaders. While earning “Some of the best and brightest students are now pursu- a master’s degree is important, we wanted the ing careers in police work. We’re very excited by the high officers to get useful ideas and information that caliber of both our undergraduate and graduate students will help them in their daily jobs.” interested in law enforcement.” The cohort of 20 law enforcement professionals, representing various local, state, and 3 federal agencies, will go through the program as “I’m asked, ‘Why do cops need a master’s December 2012 a group. Classes will be offered at the West Hart- degree?’ Well, our critical thinking and commu- COURIER www.ccsu.edu/courier ford Police Department, online, and at Central. nications skills are used every day, much more Upon completion, the officers will have earned a often than our weapons,” he said. master’s of science in criminal justice. “Police don’t invest in themselves enough,” The West Hartford police station will be the Gove said. “We invest in our families and the site for some of the classes because it is a famil- communities we serve. But it is important not to iar place to many law enforcement officers. The lose sight of our own knowledge and skills, and town offers free training programs to 14 neigh- not be left behind.” boring police departments to meet mandated Classes begin in January and meet once a requirements. week for 18 months, through fall 2014. The The West Hartford Police Department and students will also be required to complete a final the criminology department have a history of capstone project. collaborating to provide innovative educational Director of the Criminal Justice graduate programming. The West Hartford Police De- program and Associate Professor Shamir Ratansi partment’s “Behind the Badge’’ College Police said the program will be demanding but also Academy Program was developed five years flexible enough to meet the needs of the gradu- ago and provides training and preparation for ate students. careers in law enforcement, according to associ- “The classes incorporate real-world issues ate professor Jennifer Hedlund. The eleventh that can be applied directly to their work,” he session begins in January. said. Anticipating students from diverse policing Tafrate said the new master’s program backgrounds, he expects the discussions to be reflects a changing trend in the profession of lively and engaging. policing. “Police departments and other law- “In essence we are creating a great think-tank enforcement agencies are seeking to develop a for law enforcement officers,” said West Hartford more educated workforce,” he said. police officer and Central alumnus Rob Riccobon “Some of the best and brightest students are ’98. “Everyone will be in the same room bringing now pursuing careers in police work,” Tafrate together their real-life experiences and ideas.” said. “That’s a shift from 10 years ago. We’re “At CCSU we focus a great deal on commu- very excited about the high caliber of students nity engagement,” Tafrate said. “I can’t think of interested in law enforcement in both our under- anything more appropriate than this program, graduate and graduate programs.” which not only benefits the police and CCSU, Gove, who earned a master’s degree in 1997, but all the communities that these officers serve.” said from his research online, he had found no – Claire LaFleur Hall other collaboration of this kind nationwide.

Mindfulness in Education and His Holiness the Dalai Lama On October 19, faculty, staff, and students gathered in Torp Theatre for a web streaming of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s presentation at Western Connecticut State University. Associate Professor of Special Education Joan Nicoll-Senft and Assistant Professor of Teacher Education Sally Drew gave opening remarks to attendees. Concurrently, a day-long event on improving educational outcomes through contemplative practices took place on campus. “Mindful Education: Building Inner Resilience” included workshops on the effects of mindfulness in schools, religious practices, treating post-traumatic stress disorder, and dissolving prejudice. Daniel Barbezat, professor of economics at Amherst College and executive director at the Center for the Contemplative Mind in Society, gave the keynote speech, “Contemplative Pedagogy and the Transformation of Education.” The forum was presented in collaboration with Capital Community Col- lege, and sponsored by the Forum for Contemplative Practice at CCSU, the Hartford Consortium for Higher Education, and the Hartford Seminary. 4 December 2012 COURIER Community Central www.ccsu.edu/courier Update on Downtown’s “Go To” Presence its home at Community Central. “The goals are the same as the national program,” says Han- nah Hurwitz, Community Central’s program coordinator. “New Britain students spend time after school creating valuable college pathways through mentoring and community service,” says Hurwitz. In response to this expanding program, CCSU social work majors receive specialized training from The Learning Center to serve as life coaches for the New Britain High students. In addition, new workshops for teens, with topics from anti-bullying to essay writing, are also being offered on Wednesdays this year. Not only are Community Central’s programs expanding, but the initiative’s staff has expanded to welcome Pauline Galezowski, an AmeriCorps VISTA member. Galezowski will work full-time for a year to fight illiteracy, improve health services, create businesses, strengthen commu- CCSU student volunteers and New Britain residents create artwork together nity groups, and much more. Hurwitz enthuses during the Burlap Festival in October. about the staff expansion, “Galezowski is good at anticipating what needs to be done. It’s nice to ommunity Central, the hub of a collabora- have the support and feel like a team.” Ctive effort between the CCSU community, In addition, student leadership roles at Com- the Downtown District, and New Britain’s pub- munity Central have more than doubled since lic school system, marked the start of its third last year. Of the five student leaders, Hurwitz year this fall with additional events, services, says, “They really understand the importance of and personnel. The coming year promises to community engagement and Community Cen- showcase the talents, skills, and “outside-the- tral. They’re passionate and self-starters.” box” thinking of CCSU students, faculty, and the As Community Central offers new programs New Britain community. like Saturday airbrush classes, the initiative con- In October, the Burlap Festival helped tinues to run its established and most success- promote recycling and the arts through burlap- ful programs. CCSU nursing students provide themed art, sculpture, dance, and live music. free health screenings for the community on The festival was a direct result of a donation of Tuesdays. Additionally, Community Central’s empty burlap coffee sacks from Omar Coffee in partnership with the YMCA continues this year Newington. The event included creative work- with “New Britain Reads,” a kindergarten read- shops by student volunteers from the Central ing buddy program designed to instill a love for Design Department, as well as burlap art instal- reading at a young age. lations in the Community Central Gallery and As always, Community Central welcomes large-scale art pieces displayed in the Anvil student volunteers for all programs mentioned Gallery on West Main Street. and more. To learn more about volunteer op- An after-school program for New Britain portunities, please contact Hannah Hurwitz at High School students, based on a national pro- 203-843-2121 or [email protected]. gram called College for Every Student, also finds – Kate Callahan

CCSU Gains Ground in Educating African American Students In late September, The Education Trust announced that CCSU ranked 23rd in the nation among public institutions for improvement in African American student graduation rates, and 17th in the nation for closing the achievement gap for African American students. The Education Trust promotes high academic achievement for all students at all levels; their goal is to close gaps in educational opportunities and achievement. 5 December 2012 Elihu Burritt’s Legacy COURIER Family Establishes Scholarship; CCSU Library Earns www.ccsu.edu/courier Unique Designation

ack in the 1800s, it wasn’t commonplace for a black- Bsmith to be well educated. But Elihu Burritt certainly was. Burritt, perhaps New Britain’s most famous resident and the man for whom the CCSU Library is named, taught himself some 50 languages. An ardent abolitionist, an internationally known peace activist, and a prolific writer, he was appointed US Consul to Birmingham, England by President Lincoln. More than 130 years after his death and five generations later, Burritt’s nieces and nephews have endowed a CCSU scholarship to honor their great uncle and his ideals. The scholarship recipient will be an undergraduate Above, left to right: University Archivist and Community Outreach student who uses the extensive collection of Burritt’s work, Librarian Renata Vickrey, Burritt descendants Rod Skinner and which is housed in the library, for research. History, politi- Susan C. Bradley, and Director of the Burritt Library Carl Antonucci cal science, international relations, and linguistics students, celebrate the Burritt Library’s designation as a Literary Landmark. as well as local history seekers are the most frequent re- searchers to explore Burritt’s work, said University Archi- travel extensively, promote education, welcome exchange vist and Community Outreach Librarian Renata Vickrey. students in their homes, teach foreign languages, fight for “I think self-improvement and access to higher educa- access to education, and work as teachers and counselors. tion is part of the Burritt legacy,” said Rod Skinner, of Mil- Some have worked as Peace Corps volunteers and for the ton, Massachusetts, a fifth-generation nephew. “Our uncle United Nations. was dogged in his pursuit of knowledge.” Burritt, who was born in a home near New Britain High Relatives Share Many of Burritt’s Traits School in 1810 and died in New Britain 69 years later, is perhaps more well-known in Europe than in the US, said “Elihu was an accomplished man who craved knowledge,” Vickrey. She often fields phone calls from abroad looking said Susan C. Bradley, a retired lawyer, bookseller, and for more information about him, particularly about the great-niece, who spoke at the ceremony. “He went from a three international peace conferences that he organized. blacksmith to a scholar to a statesman, and the tool he used to do this was the library. He had great depth of thought CCSU Library One of Only Three Literary and understanding of human nature.” Landmarks in Connecticut Bradley, of Spokane, Washington, didn’t know about The announcement of the scholarship on October 11 her famous relative until about 10 years ago, but she can was part of a dual ceremony that also marked the Bur- see her ancestor’s traits in many family members. ritt Library’s designation as a Literary Landmark by the “I discovered we were following in his footsteps, American Library Association (ALA). The award reflects without even knowing it,” she said. Family members the extensive collection of Burritt materials, which include scrapbooks, letters, the Burritt Christian Citizen newspaper, a prayer book, and one of Burritt’s most famous peace-promoting writings, “The Pledge of Universal Brotherhood.” It also contains the document appointing Burritt as consul. A plaque marking the designation, only the third in Connecticut, is located outside the main entrance (shown at left). The Burritt Library joins a prestigious list of ALA landmarks, including the homes of Tennessee Williams and William Faulkner. Director of the Burritt Library Carl Antonucci said he heard about the Literary Landmark program from a colleague. He and Vickrey applied for the award, with sponsorship from the Burritt family. – Claire LaFleur Hall

The Elihu Burritt Collection is located in Special Collections and Archives, second floor of the Burritt Library. For more information, contact Special Collections Librarian Ewa Wolynska at [email protected], (860-832-2086) or University Archivist Renata Vickrey at [email protected], (860-832-2085). 6 December 2012 COURIER Student in the Spotlight www.ccsu.edu/courier Ryan Baldassario Hard Work + Campus Involvement + Play = A Well-Rounded Education He found much more than he bargained for in the SGA, saying, “There are so many different ways to get involved—once you’re in, it’s difficult to get out.” And he wouldn’t want it any other way. As SGA commuter senator, Baldassario enjoys talking to fellow students, exploring their concerns, and working to improve their college experience. His current project involves installing displays on the parking garages at CCSU to notify students when the garages are full. To the nearly 80% of students who commute to and park on campus, the signs would help immensely. While his work in the student government improves the on-campus experience of CCSU students, his role as a Community Central youth mentor helps the students of Vance and Jefferson Elementary Schools in New Britain. Baldassario’s initial goal of becoming a history teacher led to his involvement in the Youth Mentor program during its inau- gural year. There, he met young students who came from troubled households and got them involved in fun after-school activities. “We got to see kids, even at the ages of 9 and 10, who had such strong personalities. Their lives might be heavy for six or seven days of the week, but at least we could help them for an hour or two. We became their friends.” Baldassario manages to make time for play in his busy schedule as yan Baldassario is one of those rare president of the CCSU Ultimate Frisbee Club. He used his leadership “Rstudents who truly takes advantage of all abilities to help elevate a ragtag group of players to a bonafide club that a university has to offer. When he graduates team that shows no signs of slowing down. Baldassario manages sched- in spring 2013, he will leave CCSU, not only with uling, budget, and travel arrangements, and plays on the defensive line. a degree but, more importantly, with a complete “We went from a scrubby pick-up team to having two guy’s teams and education.” So says Director of Student Activities a women’s team, and our first men’s teams went to college regionals— & Leadership Development Scott Hazan, with the furthest we’ve ever gone.” whom Baldassario has worked extensively. As if all of that weren’t enough, Baldassario started working at the Baldassario maintains a 3.95 GPA with a full Carol A. Ammon Arts and Sciences Advising Place (ASAP) in the fall. course load of challenging honors classes. He He and his fellow peer advisors offer guidance to undergraduate stu- takes part in a variety of student government or- dents who might not be familiar with the process of class registration. ganizations, community engagement programs, He hopes students will feel more comfortable talking with a similarly and peer advising, and plays on a sports team aged student. that he helped develop. And his major in political science is preparing him for a full-time internship As an SGA Senator, Baldassario enjoys talking to fellow in the Office of Policy and Management in Hart- students, exploring their concerns, and working to improve ford during his final semester. He embodies the their college experience. level of involvement that many students aspire to have, but few have the commitment to achieve. Baldassario has been involved in the Stu- With such a wide variety of interests and experiences, Baldassario dent Government Association (SGA) since his is exploring multiple career options. If he finds that state agency work sophomore year at CCSU, but his involvement in satisfies him, he may pursue a master’s degree in public administra- student government started in middle school. He tion. Alternatively, his time as an SGA senator inspired him to consider dedicated his first year of college to the academic a graduate degree in student development in higher education. In workload, but realized that involvement in stu- addition, Baldassario would like to move to the Pacific Northwest and dent government would deepen his immersion in continue his career on the West Coast. the college environment. “I knew it would keep No matter what path he pursues, Baldassario has the right combina- me busier and more in touch with the campus,” tion of natural charisma and real-world skills that will undoubtedly Baldassario remembers of his decision to run lead him to success. for office. – Adam Saucier 7 December 2012 Student in the Spotlight COURIER Liz Braun www.ccsu.edu/courier Student Leadership at its Best enior Liz Braun is an “organizational communica- touch with a Stions special studies major with a concentration in good number race and gender, and an honors program minor.” No, of friends my you will not find that listed anywhere on CCSU’s Pro- senior year, grams and Majors webpage. so I wanted to “I started out as a history major,” 22-year-old Braun make the most said. “Then I became a biology/chemistry major, and out of college.” then I became the special studies major.” It’s clear In addition to designing her own undergraduate that she program, the Hamden native is the vice president of certainly did. the Student Government Association (SGA), a peer Through her leader, Outing Club president, contributor to the Blue participation Devils Advocates Program (new this semester), and has in leadership been an orientation leader since her sophomore year. programs, “It takes a lot of energy,” said Braun. “I do a lot.” Braun said, This summer, as head orientation leader, Braun “Most of my was responsible for managing Freshman Orientation, memorable ex- which, according to director of Student Activities and periences came Leadership Development Scott Hazan, “was extremely from outside successful. Braun’s ability to get things done and get of the class- them done well is extraordinary.” room.” Inter- “There was a flash mob, a scavenger hunt—it was acting directly with students taught her more than so much fun,” Braun said. “And being the student in she could have imagined, and has showered her with charge was amazing. Stressful, but amazing.” opportunities. For example, the Blue Devils Advocates It is evident that Braun is a driven young woman Program—a mentor program that links first-year and who has prepared herself for a promising future in stu- upperclass students—can be partly credited to Braun. dent affairs. However, she is not shy to credit Central Director of The Learning Center Meg Leake said, for her confidence and advanced leadership skills. “Without Braun’s hard work and commitment to the “Some people say there’s nothing going on at 2012 incoming class, these programs would not have Central. That’s not true. You just have to get out there been as strong and well-coordinated.” and look, and that’s what I did. These opportunities Since Braun hopes to work at a university within a dropped into my lap in a second,” said Braun. division of student affairs, this program—along with She is grateful for the experiences she has had her other endeavors—are very much resume boosters. at Central thus far. “I have been given so many op- She wants CCSU students to understand that these opportunities it’s been like a domino effect,” Braun said. portunities are not hard to find. “Year after year there’s something new that I get to be a part of.” “Some people say there’s nothing going What really encouraged Braun to get involved in on at Central. That’s not true. You just a handful (or two) of campus activities and create her have to get out there and look.” own major was her time as a dorm student in Carroll Hall her freshman year. “My experience at Central affected what I want to “Get involved,” Braun said when asked about do in the future, and it started with having a really advice she gives to first-year students as an orientation good experience at Carroll Hall,” Braun explained. leader. “If you’re just driving to school, parking your “There was such huge camaraderie. We were always car, going to class, and then driving home, you’re not hyped up about Dean’s Cup and having good times to- going to get anything out of Central.” gether. Once a Carroll Cobra, always a Carroll Cobra.” Getting involved and taking advantage of what As Braun has learned, freshman year is pivotal for Central has to offer not only helps experience-wise but many students, herself included. also gets you noticed. “This was my chance to start over,” said Braun “I have supervised hundreds of CCSU student lead- about beginning her Central career. “In high school ers,” Leake said. “Liz is in the top two percent!” I was quiet, shy, and a terrible public speaker. I lost – Allison Bernhard 8 December 2012 continued from page 1 COURIER Community Engagement Travels Abroad www.ccsu.edu/courier As director of the George Muirhead Center things maintain hope and are happy. Further, for International Education (CIE), Nancy Birch they learn to communicate more effectively, Wagner observes, “We know from student jour- know how to cope within cultures, think criti- nals and evaluations that learning is hands-on, cally, and return with different attitudes and intense, and real-life. Students are not tourists on awareness.” junkets, not detached from the site, but deeply CCSU courses abroad routinely engage stu- involved with local inhabitants, the villages, non- dents with community initiatives overseas. Here governmental agencies, schools, and children.” are a few examples showcasing efforts in Peru, CIE Associate Director Lisa Marie Bigelow notes, South Africa, and Ghana. “Our students see how people with few material

VILLA EL SALVADOR, PERU

Nine social work majors spent two weeks Baratta. “Because of our students’ willingness volunteering in Villa El Salvador, a Lima dis- to volunteer, a two-week summer program was trict. The desert shanty town of approximately developed specifically for families who had 600,000, according to Baratta, is characterized few, if any, economic resources, so that their by “extreme poverty, a lack of food and access children could receive services for the first time to water, electricity, adequate shelter, and toilet ever. In Peru, there is no governmental support facilities, and with streets lined with garbage.” for persons with disabilities.” Students volunteered at three different sites. Samantha Russell’s journal entry: “The chil- At Los Martincitos, a community-based initia- dren, although many of them could not speak, tive sponsored by the Catholic Church in Villa showed us how much they loved us being there El Salvador, Kim Sprong, Kyle Robbins, and by their constant hugs and kisses when we Baratta assisted in delivering basic services to entered the room. The staff in the school asked 160 of the poorest senior citizens. They pre- us for advice on what we thought could help pared food, served meals, did clean up, par- the children. We suggested a trip somewhere ticipated in recreation activities, and also made outside, where they could run and play and home well-being visits. release some of their extra energy.” Ben Chaback, Kristy Fredrickson, Tim “Timetao” Huff, and Lauren Vitale were as- Learning is hands-on, intense, and signed to the National Institute for the Welfare real-life. Students are deeply involved of Infants and the Family, a state-supported with local inhabitants, the villages, welfare agency. A public school during the academic year, in the summer it becomes a day care non-governmental agencies, schools, center for children from infancy to 16 years. and children. As in Los Martincitos, the provision of hot meals was crucial. CCSU students also taught Taking the children by train to a park, Rus- English and in turn learned Spanish from the sell recalled how one severely autistic boy, children. The students initiated and participat- given to outbursts in the classroom, appeared CCSU social work ed in volleyball and basketball games, arts and transformed. She wrote: “He was laughing, students mentor day care participants at the crafts, and singing and dancing. smiling, and clapping, his entire face filled National Institute for The Anjo Gabriel School, an educational pro- with joy. For the first time in my life, I felt that the Welfare of Infants gram for children primarily diagnosed with au- I had contributed to truly changing at least and the Family in Villa tism, Down syndrome, and cerebral palsy was one person’s life. It brought tears to my eyes. El Salvador, Peru. the site for Jessica Velerdi, Samantha Russell, Something that would seem so small to us in Maria Millburg, and Stephanie Zarnetske. “This the United States was life-changing to these was the first time our partnering NGO (non- children, their families, and the people who governmental organization) placed volunteers dedicate their lives to working with them. here because of our students’ level of knowl- My experiences working at Anjo Gabriel will edge, experience, and interest in working with forever be a part of me, and something that has children diagnosed with disabilities,” stated truly changed me as a person.”

continued on next page 9 December 2012 KHAYELITSHA, SOUTH AFRICA COURIER www.ccsu.edu/courier Samantha Tringali, a 2011 social work graduate, be comforted. But I realized the staff was tired, is now a day school therapist at Raymond Hill burnt out, and had run out of patience. They School, part of the Klingberg Family Centers cared and wanted kids to succeed, but the teach- in New Britain. She recalls her 2010 summer ers themselves were not in good health. They abroad in an upper level social work course in had to wait in long lines for medications which Khayelitsha, a township in the province of West- often ran out.” ern Cape in South Africa. She adds, “I learned the importance of com- She volunteered at Home from Home Day- munity engagement from facing challenges care, a foster care program for 36 children who when there is no parental involvement. Now in are orphaned or whose parents are unable to my current job, I’ve been trying to foster com- care for them due to HIV/AIDS. She recalls one munity engagement by getting local police to HIV-positive little girl who was very sick and interact with our children. This has a good out- the staff had difficulty dealing with her: “She come, because kids will see the role of police as a sat in my lap and cried, and I remember asking positive support, to protect and not just punish.” people to give her more support; she needed to

CAPE COAST, GHANA

Anthropology and geography field studies Students interacted with traditional healers Top: CCSU student courses, taught by Professor of Geography Peter at the Mampong Traditional Herbal Hospital. Johnleia Lambert helps Kyem and Professor of Anthropology Evelyn Kyem explained this is a modern hospital geared with gari processing at Phillips in summer 2012, offered intensive to conducting scientific research and quality a small scale woman- guided experiences allowing students to learn control of the various herbs used in the coun- owned business in about Ghana, its history, economics, and culture, try. There is a large laboratory where chemists Cape Coast. Bottom: Student Kelly including politics, contemporary life, and the use modern instruments to test various herbs Vaivoda makes a role of women in the Ghanaian society. brought in by private herbalists. The hospital connection during a According to Kyem, students experienced cultivates its own herbs where leaves and tree summer course abroad community engagement by living in the homes bark are harvested to prepare herbal medicine in Ghana. of Ghanaian families, witnessing communal for sale. life, and participating in activities with their Phillips explained how stu- hosts. “At Kakum forest reserve in Cape Coast, dents learned about the role of students learned first-hand how communities women in the country: “A stop are collaborating with public officials in a forest to visit an all-girls school raised conservation venture that attracts thousands of an interesting dialogue. The foreign visitors,” Kyem said. conversation with teen girls was Students also met and learned from tradition- an eye-opener. The Ghanaian al healers who explained their practices. students wanted to know how “African traditional religion and healing our schools handled girls who practices are more practical than what is de- may get pregnant. Our students scribed in the Western media,” said Kyem. were surprised to have questions “Partly as a result of shortages of trained doc- of pregnancy and abortion arise. It tors and the high cost of modern treatment showed how global these kids were in medical facilities, the majority of people in and how they use social media.” rural Ghana consult traditional healers who use A couple of students stayed herbal medicine to heal the sick like it used to be with a woman who owned water in the past.” distribution and garbage pickup companies. “In the US such busi- There’s a potent force when CCSU nesses might be owned by males,” students study abroad and become observed Phillips. “Clearly the CCSU students saw this woman as engaged, shoulder to shoulder, with an entrepreneur.” people of local communities through volunteerism or service work. continued on page 10 10 December 2012 COURIER www.ccsu.edu/courier C.J. Huang Remembered; Endowed Scholarship at CCSU Chang-Jen Huang, businessman and philanthropist, truly lived life to the fullest and left a lasting impression on both his native China and the US. Educated as a civil engineer at Wuhan Univer- sity and the University of Michigan, Huang worked in the oil industry in Southeast Asia until his retirement in 1981. He was instrumental in leasing the Bangchak Oil Refinery from the Thai government in the 1950s and rebuilding it into one of the largest corporations in Southeast Asia. Huang’s work as a philanthropist was equally significant. In 1983, he established the C.J. Huang Foundation to serve various Asian American community organizations and the Ouyang Yu Foundation to aid educational institutions in Hunan, China. After being introduced to CCSU by professor of political science, emeritus, Samuel S.T. Chen and receiving an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters in 1990, Huang endowed Central with the C.J. Huang Scholarship. The purpose of the scholarship is to support and encourage faculty and student exchanges between China and the United States. Huang was also an accomplished and prolific calligrapher who published several books on the subject. He passed away on October 31, 2012, at the age of 96.

Lectures and Workshops Mark National Disability Awareness Month at CCSU In recognition of National Disability Awareness Month, CCSU presented several events in October. “Responding to Troubled and At-Risk Students: A Law and Policy Perspective” was the subject of a lecture by director of Academic Integrity at Syracuse University Gary Pavela. His presentation explored ways college administrators and faculty can identify and respond to students who may pose a threat to themselves or others. School psychologist Diane Valentine offered information about ADHD and techniques for better academic performance. Adjunct lecturer of psycho- logical science Laura DiGalbo spoke on using Universal Design in learning, technology, and beyond. Veterans Affairs coordinator Chris Gutierrez, with Jonathan Pohl, and Janice Keeman from the Counseling and Wellness Center, led a workshop on the impact military culture has on a veteran’s academic career and practical skills that can be used to work with students who have served our country.

Community Engagement Travels Abroad continued from page 10 Below: Faculty and students help local In the marketplace, the students talked to At the same time, Ghanaian men are learning to fishermen drag their women selling goods about how they balanced get out of the ‘it’s a man’s world’ mentality of fishing nets to shore their work responsibilities and child care. the colonizers and are now expected to help out in Cape Coast. Sonila Slater, a graduating senior majoring with the house chores.” in international Slater gives a flavor of the cultural ethos: “On studies,observed in our way to the University of Cape Coast’s cam- her journal: “The pus, we stopped at a fishing site along the beach reason daycare where some fishermen were pulling a net on- was such a good shore from the sea. Not only did we get a chance business to have in to observe, but also to participate in the process. Ghana is that the Pulling the net was hard; yet the fishermen kept majority of Ghana- on singing, which not only made the job look ian women work. less tiring, but also feel easier than it was.” They no longer – Geri Radacsi depend on the husband’s earnings “Maybe we did not change the world, but look for ways but for one day, we created change, to make their own. and the feeling was overwhelming.” 11 December 2012 CCSU Honors Our Veterans COURIER www.ccsu.edu/courier CSU held its annual Veterans Day Ceremony in November, to honor those Cwho served our country and to recognize three local veterans—students Linnai-Anne Camacho and Jesse Caruso, and New Britain resident Robert Nowik—for their service. The ceremony included the presentation of the Colors by Army National Guard members, the singing of the National Anthem by student Andrew Choi, and presentations by President Jack Miller and New Britain Mayor Tim O’Brien. Sergeant Linnai-Anne Camacho received the 2012 Student Veteran Excel- lence Award. She was born and raised in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. After graduating from high school in 2001, she enlisted in the Army as a human resources specialist. In her five years of military service, Camacho carried out various computer engineering tasks with the 864th Engineer Battalion. She left the military in August 2006 with the rank of sergeant (E-5) and more than 10 prestigious awards to her name. Camacho, a mother of three, is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in industrial technology with a concentration in networking technology and a minor in Spanish; her current GPA is 3.9. Specialist Jesse Caruso was presented with the Great Elm VFW 9945 Wethersfield Veteran’s Scholarship. He joined the Army’s Delayed Entry Program during his senior year of high school and after graduating in 2004, he entered the Army’s Basic Combat Training School and went on to become a sig- nal support specialist. After completing airborne school, he was assigned to the 1st 501st Airborne Infantry Battalion and trained for his deployment to Iraq. In 2006, while in Iraq, he was responsible for his battalion’s communications systems as an operator, technician, and trainer. When discharged from the Army in 2007, Caruso was a heavily awarded E-4 Specialist. He is currently pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering at CCSU. Navy Builder 3rd Robert Nowik received the 2012 Veterans Public Service Award for Excellence. He was drafted into the US Navy after graduating from Pulaski High School in 1965. After boot camp, he was assigned as a construction apprentice. He later trained with the Marines and was deployed for 11 months to Phu Bai, Vietnam, where his unit constructed buildings and landing strips. After a second tour of duty and honorable discharge in 1969, he remained con- nected to the Armed Forces by volunteering as a member of the Veterans Coun- cil, the Disabled American Veterans, and a leading member of VFW Post 511. – Adam Saucier

All photos, left to right: Top: President Jack Miller with Sergeant Linnai-Anne Camacho, recipient of the 2012 Student Veteran Excellence Award. Middle: Specialist Jesse Caruso is presented with the Great Elm VFW 9945 Veteran’s Scholarship by the post’s commandant Thomas Olander and adjutant Robert Kelly. Bottom: Navy Builder 3rd Robert Nowik receives the 2012 Veterans Public Service Award for Excellence from President Miller.

ITBD Executive Breakfast Series Offers Big Insights on Small Business CCSU’s Institute for Technology and Business Development (ITBD) began its seventh annual Executive Breakfast Series in October. TD Bank co-sponsors this series, which presents three distinct panels focusing on small business development. The first panel, “Growing Your Busi- ness,” occurred in October; the remaining two panels, “The Connecticut Economy with a Small Business Focus” and “E-Business Distribution Successes for Small Businesses” are scheduled for January 10, 2013, and March 13, 2013, respectively. The panels are open to the public and include a full breakfast. Register online at www.ccsu.edu/panel or call CCSU ITBD at (860) 832-0700. 12 December 2012 COURIER www.ccsu.edu/courier CCSU IN THE community

In an effort to raise awareness about the nearly 350 homeless children in New Britain, a coalition of six social and civic organizations hosted a “tipoff” news conference in October to announce the first annual “Hoops for Homeless” three-on-three basketball tourna- ment, which will take place in downtown New Britain in April, 2013. CCSU Assistant Professor of Teacher Education Jacob Werblow and local attorney Paul Zagorsky created the event to raise funds and increase awareness about homelessness in the city. The event is run by a board of volunteers representing local non-profit and civic organizations, as well as CCSU. All proceeds will go to organizations that directly address homelessness in New Britain, with priority given to projects that serve children’s needs. At left, CCSU student Chelsea Malloy, whose family was near homelessness two years ago, speaks at the “Hoops for Homeless” news conference.

Students and faculty from the De- In November, Associate Professor partment of Criminology and Crim- of Art Cassandra Broadus-Garcia inal Justice held a Toiletry Drive in and art education students Alexa November, to benefit women offend- Fermeglia and Kristina Tsantiris ers from Hartford’s Community Court. worked on a Hurricane Sandy Graduate Assistant Nicole Grimaldi Disaster Response Team. Stationed was instrumental in the organization in Massapequa, New York, the team and success of the event—approxi- of volunteers worked for two days to mately 100 “healthy packs” filled with help families affected by Sandy clear necessities were put together after out their homes of ruined belongings the two-day event. Left to right, Com- and soaked drywall and insulation. munity Court Case Manager and According to Fermeglia, “It was hard CCSU alumuna Yanira Rodriguez, to do this, because you are literally student Evan Goddard, Assistant Pro- throwing away these peoples’ lives.” fessor of Criminology and Criminal The students, who had no prior di- Justice Sue Koski, student Ben Todd, saster relief experience, came home and Community Court Coordinator knowing they truly made a difference Chris Pleasanton with some of the and wanting to volunteer again. many donations.

Young Adults Benefit from C.L.I.M.B. / CCSU Collaboration ast year three young adults with special needs held students who participate in integrated post-secondary Lpart-time jobs on campus, thanks to the Career Ladder educational programs are much more likely to obtain com- to Independence, Maturity, and Beyond (C.L.I.M.B.) competitive employment, require fewer supports, and earn munity agency. This year the successful program has placed higher wages.” two more young adults in jobs on campus. Nicoll-Senft sees the collaboration with C.L.I.M.B. as C.L.I.M.B. and CCSU work together to help recent high a win-win situation. “Traditional students at Central are school graduates achieve four things: gain familiarity with embracing the presence of same-age peers striving for the CCSU’s campus; audit an undergraduate course; join a best life opportunities,” she says. “CCSU students majoring CCSU club; and hold a part-time job on campus. Dori Sar- in education and related fields have the opportunity to gain gent, C.L.I.M.B’s vocational counselor says, “We are trying valuable field experience without leaving campus. Such op- to avoid making it just about work, we want them to be part portunities provide our students with social opportunities of campus life.” to interact with members of their community who are differ- The young adults participating in the Central/C.L.I.M.B. ent from them, just as they meet and get to know individu- collaboration face challenges like autism and mental health als from different cultures, races, and religions.” issues. They may have to work harder to achieve things that To view a video called “C.L.I.M.B. Works at CCSU,” pro- traditional students take for granted, but on-campus liaison duced by C.L.I.M.B. students about their work experiences to the program, Associate Professor of Special Education on campus, visit YouTube. Joan Nicoll-Senft says, “Extensive studies have found that – Kate Callahan 13 December 2012 COURIER CCSU IN THE community www.ccsu.edu/courier

Worthwhile Competition Benefits Local Food Banks After attending the Conference on Student Government Association, where he learned of a community engagement project developed by students at two other universities, sophomore senator Simms Sonet was inspired to organize a food drive—with a twist—on campus. With help from his friend, junior Michelle Zohlman, Competition for a Cause was created. The two-week-long food drive pitted clubs, public safety, administrative and academic departments, as well as community organizations in New Britain, against each other in a friendly competition to see who could donate the greatest number of food items. Zohlman hoped that the event would help create a stronger sense of community between CCSU and New Britain: “As much as competition creates rivalry, it also creates community. Although we were all essentially competing against one another, we were all competing for a worthy cause.” Together, CCSU and the city of New Britain collected 3,500 food items for local food banks and community service organizations. After seeing the success of the competition, both Zohlman and Sonet hope that the Competition for a Cause will become an annual event at CCSU. Sonet says, “Considering we only had two weeks, the response was amazing. We anticipated about 1,000 donations at most, but we collected 2,500 more donations than expected. The competition was hugely successful and I am very excited for next year. Now, many people who struggle to feed their families week to week will receive some help.”

The CCSU Clean-up Crew and its founder, Steven Monteiro, have spent weekend after- noons over the last nine months cleaning up the neighborhoods around campus. The group is made up of student volunteers, and is also available for anyone who needs to fulfill community service hours. Monteiro, a senior management and organization major and president of the men’s club lacrosse team, says the crew spends two to three hours each Sunday after- noon walking almost three square miles collect- ing refuse. The group has collected hundreds of bags of garbage, as well as discarded car parts, furniture, and a washing machine. Monteiro and his initiative have garnered praise from New Brit- ain city officials and CCSU administrators.

More than 100 students participated in Blanket Central in November, a project organized by student Amanda Goodwin. The goal of the project was to make fleece blankets to comfort young patients at Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital. The group of volunteers created 101 blankets which will be given to children admitted for treatment in the hospital’s emergency room. Goodwin, a former patient at Yale New Haven, started planning the project over the summer, and received funds from the Inter Residence Council’s Budget Committee to buy the materials. At right, Goodwin looks on as students Maggie McCormack and Alex Nesta display a finished blanket. 14 December 2012 COURIER Retired Human Resources Head Anne Alling www.ccsu.edu/courier Creates Scholarship for Single Parents s a single mother of a tod- “I took out a lot of student loans—and tuition was a lot Adler, Anne Alling put her- less than it is now,” she said. “These days you can’t do much self through college by working without a college degree.” four part-time jobs, and often Alling graduated from Eastern Connecticut State Univer- studying late into the night. sity with a degree in history/social sciences and a teaching Her hard work paid off certificate for grades 7 to 12. Nine years later she embarked with two college degrees and a on a graduate degree in public administration at the Uni- rewarding 33-year career with versity of Connecticut. That experience was equally hectic. the State of Connecticut. She By then she had two children, was working full-time, and spent the final seven years as attending school in the evening. the Chief Human Resources “I’m very grateful for my career,” Alling said. “I worked Officer at CCSU, retiring in for the State of Connecticut for 33 years and if I hadn’t gone spring 2012. to school, I wouldn’t have had my career. Now it has come Now Alling (at left) has full circle. endowed a scholarship for “In my job, I was well aware that our student body is undergraduate students who share similar barriers to higher made up of a lot of people like me,” she said. “One of the education. The first recipient will be chosen this spring. reasons I enjoyed working at Central, and at Eastern Con- Alling recalled the challenges of juggling college classes necticut State University before that, was that I could relate while working and raising a child. She drove a school bus, to the student body.” cleaned houses, babysat, and looked for jobs that would Alling said at the time of her retirement she wanted to welcome a 3-year-old in tow. make a contribution to the University and to maintain her “Money was always a concern,” Alling said. “I didn’t ties to a place she loves. have a lot of family resources. I was on food stamps. I empa- “Central is a really wonderful university, and a great thize with people who are trying to get an education and pay place for any student who wants a strong education,” she the rent and buy food—all at the same time.” said. “I did this because I think highly of Central and the The Anne Alling Scholarship recipient must be a single value of a Central education, and I want it to be possible for parent, returning to school after a significant absence, and anyone who wants to study here to be able to do so.” demonstrating financial need. – Claire LaFleur Hall

First Dance Festival a Creative Success The CCSU Dance Program hosted its first Dance Festival for Connecticut High School Students in October. More than 200 high school students and their teachers participated in the day-long event, which offered a series of master classes, ranging from ballet to Afro-Caribbean dance, taught by world-renown dancers, and an opportunity to perform in an adjudicated dance concert on Welte Stage later that day. The festival was created by Professor of Physical Education and Human Perfor- mance and CCSU Dance Director Catherine Fellows; Central dance alumni and students helped organize the day’s activities. Sponsors included the School of Education and Professional Studies, the National Dance Association, and the Connecticut Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. At left, professional guest dance teacher Aubrey Lynch, former soloist with Alivin Ailey, leads dance students through a bit of choreography.

CCSU Hosts 17th Multicultural Education Conference The 17th annual New England Conference on Multicultural Education was held at Central in October. The NECME conference is New England’s oldest and largest conference on multicultural education, with almost 1,800 attendees at the event. This year’s speakers included Jac- queline Jordan Irvine, Christine E. Sleeter, and Lee Mun Wah. CCSU Professor of Educational Leadership Penelope Lisi served as a member of the conference committee for the event. 15 December 2012 COURIER NOTABLE programs www.ccsu.edu/courier

CCSU celebrated “Asia Day: Tradition, Opportu- To honor Native American Heritage Month nities, and Connection” in November. The day’s in November, the Mosaic Center, History Depart- events included lectures and presentations by ment, and the Office of Diversity and Equality Central students and professors from Central, hosted “Mitsitam: A Native American Banquet Wesleyan, and the University of Massachusetts. A Experience,” with honored guest American Taiko Japanese drumming performance served Indian (Cree Tribe) and local community leader as a finale to the celebration. Terri Delahanty. The menu included foods indig- This fall, the Chemistry Club hosted the enous to the Northern Woodlands. A Native Amer- “Be The Match” marrow donor registry drive ican drumming, rattling, and song workshop, and on campus. Expectations were exceeded when traditional round dance followed the banquet. 65 people registered with this national program Polish Independence Day was celebrated at to become bone marrow donors. CCSU in November with “Piesn Ojczysta (Native In November, the Department of Mathemati- Songs).” The event, which was free and open to cal Sciences hosted two competitive events: the public, featured Polish patriotic songs, arias, the 3rd annual Integration Bee was open to stu- duets, and ensembles from the Polish Opera and dents registered in a Calculus II or higher math Operetta. course, while the 1st annual Factoring Bee was For every used textbook CCSU students open to all undergraduate students. Prizes were donate to One Planet Books, Barnes and Noble awarded to winners at both events. makes a donation to Reading is Fundamental, In October, CCSU Art Galleries presented an a nonprofit organization that strives to make exhibit of works by Lois Dodd, an American ab- reading a fun and important part in underserved stract impressionist painter. Dodd has participat- young children’s lives. Of all Barnes and Noble ed in over 100 individual and group exhibitions college bookstores, CCSU’s bookstore contrib- throughout the country since 1949, and received utes the most to this program with about $5,000 many awards for her work. donated annually. Fendika, a troupe of six of the most accom- “Responding to Troubled and At-Risk plished Ethiopian azmari dancers and musicians, Students: A Law and Policy Perspective” performed at Torp Theater in October. In keeping was the subject of a lecture given at CCSU in with tradition, the azmari dancers used native October. Gary Pavela, Director of Academic instruments as accompaniment for historical sto- Integrity at Syracuse University, explored ways rytelling. The event was sponsored by the Interna- college administrators and faculty members can tional and Area Studies Program, the Center for identify and respond to students who may pose Africana Studies, the Anthropology Club, and the a threat to themselves or others. Mosaic Center. In October, Central sponsored an event During the month of November, the CCSU to commemorate the 30th anniversary of chapter of Habitat for Humanity hosted a Connecticut’s Lemon Law, a law that protects clothing drive, with proceeds donated to home- consumers from poorly-made vehicles. The event less shelters. Last year the group collected over featured a luncheon, a welcome from Provost 700 articles of clothing. and Vice President Carl Lovitt, and a panel dis- In October, professors from CCSU, The Univer- cussion that focused on the Lemon Law’s history. sity of Hartford, and Capital Community College Speakers included “Father of the Lemon Law,” gathered to discuss the “Historical, Philosophi- Adjunct Lecturer of Political Science John Wood- cal, and Political Implications of President cock, Chair of the Political Science Department Obama’s Reelection.” The panel discussion, led Paul Petterson, and Director of Library Services by CSU Professor Felton Best, was sponsored by Carl Antonucci. African-American Studies, and the departments In October, the S.A. Blejwas Endowed Chair of philosophy and political science. of Polish and Polish American Studies presented CCSU recently hosted the lecture “Honor and “Writing the History of the Jews in Poland and Shame in Forced Marriages” by Vidya Sri, an Russia.” Keynote speaker and Abramson Chair activist who works to impact social and policy of Holocaust Studies at Brandeis University Antony change for victims of abuse and “honor” violence Polonsky presented an analysis of themes from in the United States. Sri is also the founder of Gan- his newly-published three-volume history of the gashakti, an organization dedicated to raising Jews in Poland and Russia. awareness of this relatively misunderstood issue.

Correction: The October Courier incorrectly reported the number of visitors to the Antietam Com- memoration in September. More than 5,000 visitors attended the event. We apologize for the error. 16 December 2012 COURIER www.ccsu.edu/courier IN THE news NEWbooks In October, CCSU Provost and Vice President Professor of History M.B.B. Carl Lovitt was quoted in the article, “College Biskupski authored the and Career Awareness Month,” in the Hartford book Independence Day: Courant. He emphasized that “getting ready Myth, Symbol, and the for college is not something that you just begin Creation of Modern Poland, to think about” as a high school senior. For which was recently pub- Hartford schools, October was geared toward lished by Oxford University educating all students and their parents about Press. The book focuses college opportunities. on Polish Independence Professor of Philosophy and Religion Day—November 11, 1918—and its convoluted Parker English was recently featured in a New and often misunderstood history. Biskupski Britain Herald article for incorporating the re- also explores the symbols and meanings that sults of a Pew Study into his class discussions. have been associated with that date by analyz- The report shows that an increasing number of ing memoirs, documents, coins, stamps, films, Americans do not identify with any religion. maps, and monuments from 1914 to 2008 that In October, graduate student Luke Boyd have been influential in shaping modern Pol- was quoted in the Norwich Bulletin about a ish society. showing of “The Norwich State Hospital: A Professor of Manage- Land Lost,” a film produced and narrated by ment Information Systems Norwich Free Academy students in honor of Michael Gendron had the 16th anniversary of the closing of Norwich two textbooks published State Hospital. Boyd, who conducted an oral this year that focus on history project with the hospital staff, is pursu- information and coming a master’s degree in public history. munications technology. Assistant Professor of English Mary Business Driven Data D’Ambrosio was quoted in a Bloomberg Communications, published Businessweek article about New York’s trans- by Prentice Hall, takes a portation system, post-Hurricane Sandy in business-driven infrastruc- November. D’Ambrosio, who usually com- ture design approach to mutes to CCSU from Brooklyn on Amtrak, understanding data com- said she found a little-known car rental munications. Business service to overcome transportation challenges Intelligence Applied: Build- after the storm. ing Effective Information and Communication Technology Infrastructure, published in October by Wiley, offers business leaders essential tools for managing their information and communication technology (ICT) to provide value for their customers and gain a competitive advantage. Screening the Dark Side of Love: From Euro-Horror to American Cinema—co-edited Borrow a Kindle by Professor of Communica- from the Library tion Karen Ritzenhoff and Current students, faculty, and staff can now published in October—ex- borrow one of four Kindle e-readers from plores the ways that love Burritt Library. Each one is equipped with and violence are portrayed a selection of current, popular fiction and in film across cultures and non-fiction, as well as some classics. The genres. For this volume, Ritzenhoff Kindles can be borrowed for seven days, and renewed for an additional seven days and co-editor Karen Randell collected essays with a valid CCSU ID, and are available on that address issues of eroticizing the violence a first-come, first-served basis at the Circula- in cinema by using a combination of history, tion Desk on the first floor. textual analysis, and psychoanalytic models. 17 December 2012 COURIER EXTRAcredit www.ccsu.edu/courier English Professor Robert Dowling participated in an expert panel at this year’s 13th Annual Eugene O’Neill Celebration in October. Panel Two paintings by senior art edu- members deconstructed Exorcism—O’Neill’s re- cation major Alexa Fermeglia, cently revealed one-act play—in the context including “Father and Sons,” shown of its presage of the iconic Long Day’s Journey at left, were selected to be includ- Into Night. ed in the exhibition “Focus Next” at Assistant Professor of Art Thomas Edwards Theater Works Gallery in Hartford had work on display at Gallery 195 in New Haven in October and November. The through mid-December. Edwards’ collection of exhibition featured the work of nine canvases and textile works was largely inspired by students from CCSU, UConn, Trinity, his daily walks through the woods near his home Harford Art School, and Wesleyan. in Killingworth. Paper New England, a regional arts Professor of Technology and Engineering Edu- organization, juried submissions. cation Patrick Foster was elected as a member of the Mississippi Valley Technology Teacher Edu- cation Conference in November. The group had its first meeting in 1909. Professor of Manufacturing and Construc- tion Management Edward Sarisley was hon- CCSU athletes and theatre students con- ored with the 2012 Educator of the Year award tinued their efforts to promote literacy in from the Associated General Contractors of local schools throughout the fall semester. Connecticut, an organization that recognizes With funding from a Walmart grant, the Central exceptional achievers in the Connecticut con- students travel to local schools where they read struction community. to students and promote reading outside the In October, Librarian Nicholas Tomaiuolo classroom. presented “Crowdsourcing: Who’s Zoomin’ Who?” at the 2012 Internet Librarian Confer- Professor of Accounting Lawrence Grasso ence in Monterey, California. Tomaiuolo dis- was honored with the 2012 Excellence in Lean cussed how entities, including libraries, use the Accounting Faculty Award at the Lean Enterprise opinions and input of non-employees to aug- Institute (LEI) Lean Accounting Summit in Orlan- ment services and solve problems. do, Florida, in September. Grasso was recognized The Connecticut Civil War Commemoration for using knowledge gained at previous LEI sum- Commission (CCWCC) was recently awarded mits in his teaching. the first annual Bruce Fraser Public History Assistant Professor of Engineering Khaled Award, by the Association for the Study of Con- Hammad was named chair of the ASME Fluids necticut History. The award is named for Bruce Engineering Honors and Awards Committee by Fraser, who was the director of the Connecticut the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Humanities Council for 30 years, and is award- The two-year appointment continues through ed for excellence in Connecticut Public History. August 2014. Professor of History Matt Warshauer, co-chair of Graduate student Amy Melissa Kirby is the the CCWCC, accepted the award. researcher, writer, developer, and volunteer proj- The 2013 “Quo Vadis” Polish conference ect coordinator of Timeless Tales, an event that will be held in New Britain, thanks to the work recreates the lives of certain local citizens buried of CCSU graduate student Lisa Wisniewski. at Fairview Cemetery in New Britain. This year, in its Wisniewski worked with Matt Dabrowski, execu- fourth season, Kirby said the October event was tive director of the Polish American Foundation “bigger and better” than ever. With about 37,000 of Connecticut, to promote New Britain as the city residents buried in the cemetery, Kirby pays conference’s next location; other contending equal attention to local celebrities and everyday cities included Los Angeles, Washington DC, people, telling memorable, factual stories about and New York City. the individual’s life. In addition to her extensive involvement with Timeless Tales, Kirby also founded In October, CCSU’s nursing program re-opened the doors to its the New Britain Historical Society in November, Wellness Clinic at Community Central. Last spring, nursing faculty and serves as president of the board of directors. and senior nursing students tested approximately 100 individuals for In November, Professor of History Heather Mun- concerns such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose levels. In addition, nursing students participated in the YMCA’s Homeless ro Prescott spoke about her recently published Connect Event in November, which offered medical testing in addition book The Morning After: A History of Emergency to services such as legal and financial counseling, energy, and food Contraception in the United States at the Univer- stamp assistance. sity of Massachusetts Medical School. 18 December 2012 COURIER Alumni Spotlight www.ccsu.edu/courier On Tour with Chris Leahy ’10

ou don’t deserve anything in this industry, you earn it,” “Ysays Chris Leahy ’10, in a telephone interview from his home in Boston. Working hard and having an upbeat attitude are equally important to the 27-year-old in his job as logistics manager for the Counting Crows. “This is the entertainment industry; it should be fun, as stressful as it may be at times. I’m doing something that others are envious of,” he says.

For a multi-platinum band like the Crows, smooth, ef- and at the end of Parachute’s first tour, the quintessential ficient tour operations are essential. Leahy’s multi-tasking tour bus became a reality. abilities are tested daily with items as varied as hospitality, Leahy always wanted to get into the touring side of mu- VIP coordination, travel, meet and greets, security, loading sic. He says he got work “due to networking and personal buses and trucks, as well as the band’s personal needs like relationships,” not because he knew how or what to do right prescription refills and dietary restrictions. “On the road away. Relationships are key in an industry that bases success it can be difficult to get simple things,” says Leahy, “or find as much on popularity as talent. Leahy has gotten better at a music shop for gear. In the south, everything’s closed reaching out to others. “It’s helped me,” he says. “You never on Sundays.” know who’s in your circle and if you don’t speak up and Obstacles and creative problem-solving are part of the say hi or be kind to people, you may miss an encounter with job. Leahy has filled many roles from overall tour man- someone who can help you with your dreams.” ager for the band Parachute, to logistics coordinator for the Leahy feels lucky and blessed. “I’ve never worked with Crows, to doubling up as guitar and keyboard tech for the an artist or band that I’ve disliked. I look forward to seeing Goo Goo Dolls. He says, “Every tour is staffed differently; all of them again,” he says. “Artists in general are quirky. It you can have multiple roles.” Leahy says, “Tour operations makes them who they are and allows them to perform,” he have many moving parts. It’s about finding the synergy to explains. Leahy lives for the moment when an artist or band make it all happen.” he’s touring with hits the stage. Being on the road so much, Leahy majored in Hospitality and Tourism at CCSU. these moments feel like home to him. As vice president of the Programming Board he learned Granted, “People have their war stories,” says Leahy. the business, logistics, and contractual issues involved in Events like a catastrophic stage collapse just days after a bringing solo artists, bands, and speakers to CCSU. After band performed can have a marked effect on his stress level. graduating in 2010, Leahy enrolled in the master of arts But the rhythm, synergy, and success keep Leahy happy on in music business program at New York University; his the road. classes were put on hold when he was offered his first tour When he’s home, Leahy runs an artist development opportunity. company called the Leahy Entertainment Group (LEG). He’s Leahy remembers his first tour with the band Parachute. always looking for the next “sound” to hit the scene. LEG “It was a down-and-dirty style of touring,” he recalls. “No is about finding and promoting independent artists—with showers.” And the quintessential tour bus didn’t exist. Leahy Leahy’s industry know-how and relationship-based philoso- says the band and crew traveled in a small van, hauling a phy, the next big artist or band could be fortunate to find trailer full of stage gear. According to Leahy, bands and tour themselves shaking hands with Chris Leahy. crews work hard to earn their success in the music industry, – Kate Callahan

GREENnews Are you interested in protecting the environment? Do you have suggestions about ways that CCSU can become more green? Are you interested in helping coordinate our annual Sustainability Symposium in the spring? Please share your ideas at an upcoming meeting of the President’s Advisory Council for Environmental Sustainability (PACES). PACES will meet at 10:00 a.m. on February 6, March 6, and April 3, 2013. All students, faculty, and staff are welcome to present ideas and thoughts at the beginning of each meeting. Meetings will be in the Sprague Carlton Room in the Student Center. For more information, please contact Associate Professor of Geography Charles Button at 860-832-2788 or [email protected]. 19 December 2012 Homecoming 2012 COURIER Celebrating the CCSU Connection www.ccsu.edu/courier

ach fall, the Department of Alumni Affairs coordinates a the day, and many alumni took advantage of the beautiful Efull week of Homecoming events, culminating in Home- weather by tailgating in the parking lot near Arute Field. coming Weekend. The weekend events give alumni the Younger family members found plenty to do, with face- opportunity to reconnect with friends and their alma mater. painting and t-shirt dying stations and inflatable bouncers Homecoming 2012 was another successful occasion that saw set up just outside the football field. the welcome return of alumni from as far back as the 1950s, The final event of the weekend was the highly anticipated when CCSU was still the Teachers College of Connecticut. Blue Devils vs. Duquesne football game, which CCSU won A record number of alumni attended this year’s Home- with a score of 38–31. A staggering 4,000 fans were in atten- coming Weekend events, which included a reunion on Fri- dance. The recently renovated football field, with its large day night and brunch on Saturday morning. Approximately digital scoreboard and new bleachers on both sides of the 170 alums enjoyed music, dancing, and good conversation at field, was a welcome sight to Al Barbarotta ’73, who was the reunion where friends, classmates, fraternity, and soror- captain of the football team “back when the hill was actually ity members were reacquainted after as many as 30 years. grass that students sat on, instead of bleachers.” Donna Viggiano ’80 echoed the sentiments of many Philip Kurze ’72 reflected on what Homecoming means alumni in attendance that night. “It’s fun to see people you’ve to him and why he returns every year. “Coming back home grown up with who now have careers and families. It’s great is exactly that. I’m among people that I’ve known since the to get together with everyone and meet new people.” 70s and late 60s and we’re renewing acquaintances, memo- The Homecoming Brunch saw an even larger number of ries, and reliving some of the greatest years of our lives.” attendees, with more than 300 alumni and their families join- – Adam Saucier ing the celebration. Food and drink were served throughout ALUMNI news David Bosso MA ’08 was named the 2012 National Council for the Social Studies Outstanding Teacher of the Year in October. The honor was awarded by CCSU, Berlin Public Schools, and the Connecticut Council for the Social Studies. Two alumni were recently recognized for their success in the Hartford Business Journal’s “40 Under Forty.” Alisa Dzanaovic ’09, who emigrated from Bosnia, is a senior communications specialist at Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center in Hartford. For the past four years, she has been involved with Hartford Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs (HYPE), recently completing her term as co-chair, and participates in many other organizations. In September, every kindergartener and first grader at Devin J. Hawthorne ’00 is Vice President of Commercial Lending Simpson-Waverly Classical Magnet School in Hartford at People’s United Bank in Hartford. Along with his responsibilities received a signed copy of Roxy’s Forever Home, a chil- for lending to medium-sized businesses, he is also the chairman dren’s book written by alumna Teresa Pelham ’94 (above, of the board for Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters. with Roxy). West Hartford-based Northstar Wealth Partners, Cora Ennis ’93 exhibited her work “Windows into the Kasbah” whose cofounders are at Hartford’s historic Butler-McCook House and Garden in Novem- Robert Laraia ’86 and ber. The exhibition, co-sponsored by the Main Street History Center, Brandon Marinelli ’01 was part of the series, “The Main Event: Cultural Cocktail Hour.” (at right), donated the Mark P. Mahoney ’01 was elected to the Mississippi Valley books in an effort to Technology Teacher Education Conference in November. The promote literacy and group had its first meeting in 1909. support animal rescue. 20 December 2012 NONPROFIT ORG. COURIER U.S. POSTAGE www.ccsu.edu/courier PAID NEW BRITAIN, CT PERMIT NO. 939

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